Unsafe Conditions in Start-Up Testing and Commissioning — Part 5
Before setting up in a particular area, do a walk-through to look for “structural” safety hazards. The following are three commonly encountered ones:
- Grounding and bonding errors. If you see a ground rod driven next to a piece of utilization equipment, stop immediately. Someone probably installed a path to the earth instead of creating a low-impedance metallic path back to the source. Metallic objects here probably have dangerous differences of potential. This must be resolved before any testing is performed.
- Inadequate clearances. You’re standing in front of a panel and see it’s only 3 ft to the yellow line behind you. Yet per the OSHA and the NEC tables, this panel requires 4-ft minimum clearance. Based on testing needs, it looks like another 4 in. to 6 in. will be needed.
- Miscellaneous NEC violations. Look for violations like raceway used as a support means, unused enclosure fittings that are still open, and even unequally sized conductors run in parallel as part of the same feeder circuit.
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.