Safety Alert –LED/EMS Installations
On Friday, June 8, 2018, a GE Current Sub-Contractor had a crew member cut wires to a ballast when he was shocked and as a result, fell off his ladder damaging a mirror during the fall. Fortunately, after being evaluated at the hospital overnight, no injures were sustained. In that one event, there were at least three opportunities for serious injury. The Employee had locked and tagged out two circuit breakers feeding the lighting, however, the investigation determined that a third and energized wire was also running through the area he was working in. This is the wire he cut. The use of a voltage detector pen would have identified that energized wire before he cut it.
SAFE GUARD STEPS –
- Ensure all energy sources are controlled (locked and tagged out: LOTO). If the emergency lighting is on a Central Battery System, ensure the circuit is LOTO as well.
- Verify there is no presence of voltage. The majority of Contractors equip their Technicians with AC voltage detector pens, however, you should ensure you are using AC/DC pens. Test your voltage pens before work by using an outlet to ensure the battery is good.
- Check that all sources have been controlled by safely testing equipment (i.e. turn-on lights). Ensure electrical verification is completed at each light before handling. The five seconds that takes, can save your life.
Ensure electrical verification is completed at each light before handling. The five seconds that takes, can save your life.
©CURRENT powered by GE