Can I use a transfer panel with something other than a generator?
You can but that takes some work, re-routing wires.  I don't know how many breakers you are talking about, but if it's just 2 or 4 you can and you have room in your panel you can use a breaker interlock switch.



The silver bar mounted on the breaker handles does not allow both breakers to be on at the same time.

To answer your question, yes, you can use a transfer switch.  But from the picture you can see the advantages of using the interlock.  No extra wiring, no subpanel to install.  No more breakers to buy.  Not many electrical distributors will stock this, and the brand does matter.  These usually don't work with breakers / panels from different brands.  They are not permanent so they can be removed easily.

EDIT - This is why all information would be great to have. A xfer switch is made to move power from 1 panel to another panel.  You can't switch some of the breakers of the panel.  So basically the way I see it is that you will need two sub panels, 1 for one task and another for another task.  Probably a couple of j-boxes to do some of the wire make-up because some of the wires won't be long enough.  Lets say that totals to 30 or 50 amps (just guessing because you have not told anyone that.)  Then instead of buying the more expensive xfer switch you can use the interlock, switching the breakers feeding each sub panel.

It really would help if you gave more info, like how many circuits (poles and amps) for one task and the same for the second task.

There are other items you can use for simple things, like breaker handle locks that screw on;



or breaker lock outs.



Either can be used to lock on or off.  The breaker will still trip even when locked.  I would prefer the one without the padlock.

You should also check local code to make sure there is no problem having the receptacles out of use, even if it is for part time.