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Mine Type: All Mines Category:   Electrical
Mine Safety and Health Administration
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Miner's Tip

"Electrical Testing Safety"

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Safety and Health are Values!


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:
    Electrical Testing Safety
  • 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
Tag # AP2003-M096


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