Maintenance, Repair & Operations

Unsafe Conditions Around Energized Equipment

June 4, 2019

Hazards you might encounter with de-energized equipment also exist with energized equipment.

The unsafe conditions that you might encounter with de-energized equipment also exist with energized equipment. But with the latter, you have additional hazards.

Consider these, for example:

Outdated drawings. Those field modifications can radically change the safety equation, if the drawings that are stowed in the equipment cabinet don’t reflect the modifications. Printed drawings should have an expiration date, by policy. If your company doesn’t have that policy, get new drawings before starting the project.
Unguarded electricity. Even non-contact work like thermography requires removing the covers that help protect you from arc blast. Remove only the cover(s) and open only the door(s) needed to do a specific task. Replace (or close) immediately after that task is complete.
Unguarded other energy sources. Batteries, capacitors, gas cylinders, and hydraulic systems are just some ways energy can be stored. If you’re exposed to any of these additional sources, take additional precautions. For example, how do you protect yourself if you’re working right next to power factor correction capacitors?

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.