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Tip written by: Infraspection Institute

Although thermography is a non-contact test, preparing for an infrared inspection of electrical equipment often requires manual preparation of switchgear components. Unwary thermographers and their assistants can be injured by making contact with cabinets or component surfaces that have become accidentally or unintentionally energized.

Switchgear enclosures and components are generally designed to prevent their surfaces from becoming energized. Under certain circumstances, switchgear enclosures and other dielectric surfaces can become unintentionally energized to significant voltage levels. This potentially lethal condition may be caused by improper wiring, faulty equipment, or contamination due to dirt or moisture.

The image below shows a potential of 265 volts AC between a molded case circuit breaker and ground. This condition was discovered after an unprotected worker received a shock by touching the phenolic breaker handle.

Whenever working on or near energized electrical equipment, keep the following in mind:

• Only qualified persons should be allowed near energized equipment
• Treat all devices and enclosures as though they are energized
• Never touch enclosures or devices without proper PPE
• Do not lean on or use electrical enclosures as work tables
• Always follow appropriate safety rules
• Know what to do in case of an accident

Remember ~

There are old thermographers and
There are bold thermographers; however,
There are no old, bold thermographers.

Thermographer safety is one of the many topics covered in the Infraspection Institute Level I Certified Infrared Thermographer^® training course. For more information including course locations and dates, visit Infraspection Institute online or call us at 609-239-4788.

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