In Part 2, we continued listing measures you can take to protect yourself while working on energized equipment. Let’s take a look at eight more.
• Modify work procedures to reduce length of exposure to, and distance from, energy sources.
• Visually inspect the area. Do you need to remove hazards such as boxes or spilled fluid? What non-removable hazards do you need to protect against? Are all metallic objects are properly bonded so there’s no difference of potential (a shock or arc flash waiting to happen)? See NEC Art. 100 for the definitions of grounded and bonded.
• If the lighting is poor, set up portable lights.
• Barricade the area with caution tape.
• Before operating breakers or controls, determine how they will affect equipment. Isolate loads where adverse operation is possible and where the loads aren’t necessary for the work you’re doing. Verify isolation (operationally, if possible).
• Anticipate the dropping of tools and parts. If conductors or terminals are exposed, cover them with rubber blankets.
• Apply and remove test equipment leads one at a time. Test leads applied or removed simultaneously can create an ionization trail between energized parts, which in turn can produce an arc blast.
• Always practice good housekeeping. If you’re done using a tool, don’t set it down where you can slip on it; put it back in the pouch or tray.
