Unsafe Conditions in Startup Testing and Commissioning — Part 1
Whether you work in a facility where new equipment has only a minimal commissioning process (e.g., motors are replaced without taking baseline test data) or there is a formal, extensive commissioning process, danger lurks.
Arguably, one of the most common dangers is inadequate lighting. The solution used to be to add more hardwired permanent lighting or cord-powered temporary task lighting, such as a 60W trouble light. Today, there are other solutions. These include:
- Battery-powered LED headlamps.
- Battery-powered magnetic LED lighting wands.
- Small battery-powered LED lights you can arrange in an area.
- Cord-powered LED area lights, typically the equivalent of 400W or greater incandescent models.
Sometimes, a mix of these methods works best. You want to ensure you eliminate shadows so that you avoid the optical illusions they create. You also want to ensure you can easily read all equipment labels, and that’s typically a job for task lighting. Area lighting is important, as it allows you to see hazards you might otherwise not notice.
About the Author
Mark Lamendola
Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.
Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.
Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.