By Tim Kopp

As the electrical industry continues its quest to keep electricians safe, new standards and test instruments are continuing to be developed with safety and convenience in mind. Over the next 12 months, there will be a greater emphasis on safety and ergonomics. Measurement category ratings will exceed the minimum requirements, thus giving the electrician peace of mind. The tester housing will be shaped to fit comfortably in the electrician’s hand so as to not cause any undo strain.

Below are some safety tips to consider:

 

• Use recommended personal protective equipment such as a hard hat, safety glasses, earplugs, safety shoes, and fire-resistant clothing.

 

• Ensure that there are no atmospheric hazards.

 

• Ensure that the test leads are in good condition. Cracked, broken or worn test leads should be replaced.

 

• Make sure that the tester's fuse is in good operating condition.

 

• Read and understand the instruction manual for the test equipment being used. If the instruction manual has been lost, contact the test equipment manufacturer to get another copy.

 

• Use the three-point test method. First, take a measurement on a known live or operating circuit to make sure the meter is operating correctly. Second, take the measurement on the unknown circuit being diagnosed. Third and lastly, retest the first known live circuit to make sure that the tester is still operating correctly after the test circuit.

 

• Ensure that the digital multimeter function switch setting and test lead connections to the meter are correct for the type of measurement to be taken.

 

• Ensure that the measurement to be taken is within limits of the digital multimeter. If the measurement to be taken is unknown, the digital multimeter should be set to its highest range.

Finally, education is a very important component that should not be overlooked. Organizations like UL and the National Electrical Contractors Association offer seminars or software on safety that can assist in keeping the end-user abreast of safety issues. Some manufacturers offer training classes that are designed to help end-users and distributors become familiar with test instrument products by using them. Look for classes that are hands-on, and where these are not textbook classes, to get the best results.

Kopp is a technical applications specialist for Greenlee - A Textron Company. He can e reached at 800-435-0786 ext. 2333 .