We have clients ask us why they need to wear Electrical Safety PPE when they do not work “live”.
Until a switchboard or piece of equipment has been tested with voltage detector tools to confirm “dead” or “not live”, the untested item is considered “live” or energised. Depending on the situation, the Operator should don electrical safety PPE to be able to confirm the relevant equipment is dead. Operators should use extreme care and don items listed in AS4836 that are applicable to the situation.
There is also potential that equipment may accidentally become energised whilst an Operator is working on the equipment.
PPE is the last action to remove hazards in the Hierarchy of controls before potentially severe injuries or death. It is a must to assess what protective measures should be followed to ensure Operators are protected.
Any parts of nearby equipment that remain energised should be covered by an Insulated Cover, such as LV Busbar Covers or HV Blankets. This will reduce the risk of accidental electrocution by providing a physical barrier for Operators and will help limit potential arc flash by the crossing of phases.
There have been too many incidents where Electrical Safety PPE was not effectively used, or used at all. Don’t become a statistic.