Safety: Unsafe Assumptions, Part 8

June 23, 2014
Assumptions when energizing equipment can prove fatal. Here are some to avoid.

Assumptions when energizing equipment can prove fatal. Here are some to avoid.

  • “It’s new equipment, so PPE isn’t necessary.” Yes, but factors such as human error during installation make equipment dangerous. PPE is always necessary, regardless of the age of the equipment.
  • “Because I’m taking a few quick measurements, PPE requirements don’t apply to me.” PPE helps protect you from the hazard you’re exposed to. What you happen to be doing isn’t relevant.
  • “Electrical tests aren’t necessary on new equipment that has been tested at the factory.” This assumption is one of those factors that make energization dangerous. Always perform the recommended pre-energization testing to detect wiring errors and faults.
  • “Someone else made sure that CTs are either shorted or connected.” Ensure the CTs won’t present a lethal potential, rather than assume some else “must have.”
  • “The feeder breaker will clear any fault, thus making me safe from fault current.” At what fault level will the breaker open (or the fuse blow)? Breakers and fuses protect conductors from melting. They aren’t intended to protect people from fault current.

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