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MSHA's Accident Prevention Program Miner's Tip Electrical Testing Safety |
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| Mine Type: All Mines |
| Category: Electrical |
The mining industry continues to experience fatalities and serious injuries related to personnel that troubleshoot and test electrical circuits. These accidents can be prevented if these best practices are followed:
- Wear your personal protective equipment (e.g., "high-voltage" gloves, hard hats approved for electrical work, ANSI approved "EH" footwear)
- If possible, always test the meter on a low energy circuit (typically 120 volt) circuit before each use.
- Use a meter that is properly rated for the testing being conducted.
- Regardless of the voltage rating of the circuit, start at the highest voltage range of the meter and work down to the lowest.
- Select the proper function and range for the measurement.
- De-energize the circuit and discharge all capacitors before attempting in-circuit resistance measurements .
- When measuring current without a current clamp, turn the power off before connecting into the circuit.
- Hang or rest the meter if possible. Avoid holding it in your hands to minimize exposure to any hazards.
| Issued: | 09/23/2002 |
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| Tag # | AP2003-M096 |
| If you have a tip you would like to pass on, you can e-mail it to zzMSHA-MinersTips@dol.gov. If your tip is selected, you will receive credit in this space. |