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Ecmweb 7791 Ppepngcropdisplay1
Ecmweb 7791 Ppepngcropdisplay1
Ecmweb 7791 Ppepngcropdisplay1
Ecmweb 7791 Ppepngcropdisplay1

Tip of the Week: It’s T&M Quiz Time

Sept. 28, 2015
Choose the proper PPE when measuring voltage

True or False: If you’re working on 120V circuits, you don’t need PPE just to take a voltage measurement with your DMM.

Answer: False.

A trickier question is this: Exactly what PPE do you need, at least as a minimum? You’ll find the answer in NFPA 70E, Table 130.7(C)(16).

This table provides PPE requirements for four different PPE categories. The category you need to apply depends upon the voltage level and the task you are performing. You can use Tables 130.7(C)(15(A)(a), 130.7(C)(15(A)(b), and Table 130.7(C)(15(B) to find the correct arc flash category for the work being done in a given environment. In this case, it’s PPE Category 1.

So, what are the requirements? Regardless of the PPE category, the required PPE includes:

  • Safety glasses (or, if a splash hazard, safety goggles).
  • Hearing protection
  • Hard hat
  • Leather footwear.

Looking at the requirements in Table 130.7(C)(16), you find you also need clothing with a minimum arc rating of 4 cal/cm squared. That includes a long-sleeve shirt, face shield, and other items. Plus, you need heavy-duty leather gloves.

The PPE is not your first line of defense, however. Some other tips to follow:

  • Use test equipment from a recognized, reputable manufacturer. A cheap knockoff may have construction deficiencies not found in major brands, and those could cost you your life.
  • Don’t use damaged test leads.
  • Follow the one-hand rule; use only one hand at a time on test leads rather than holding a lead in each hand.
  • Know what you’re measuring. If you “think” it’s 120V and it’s actually a medium-voltage system as the label above it says, both you and the meter could be toast.
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.

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