Electrical testing is an integral part of maintenance, repair, and operations. But making assumptions can turn it lethal. Here are three to avoid.
- "The test equipment is safe to use.” Before you connect any test equipment, turn it on and see if it appears to operate normally. Then turn it off, verify the settings are correct for the intended test, inspect your test leads (which are easily damaged), and connect the leads one at a time before turning the test equipment back on.
- “Everyone around me knows I’m conducting this test, so they are safe from whatever I do.” Others may have no idea what this test means or what they must do to be safe. Discuss the test and its safety implications with all affected parties.
- “If I lockout/tagout the breakers supplying the equipment, I’ve isolated the energy sources.” Many other types of energy sources besides electrical exist, including hydraulic cylinders and mechanical springs. Use the system diagrams, not just the electrical diagrams; these may also show related loads you need to isolate.
