Monday, November 06, 2006

Electricity - protecting people

The first consideration is whether a low voltage system can be used, so that the potential for harm is significantly reduced (e.g. battery or 110V). Also, it is important to remember that these can still act as an ignition source and still require a higher voltage supply at some point (i.e. mains to charge or provide supply to step down to 110V).

Other ways to protect include:

* Use of double insulated equipment - these have extra layers of insulation to prevent contact with live conductors
* Fuses that 'blow' if excess current flows
* Residual circuit devices that trip if current differs significantly between live and neutral
* Earthing conducting parts so they cannot become live if there is a fault and if there is low resistance in the earth, it will create a large current that should blow fuses or trip RCD
* Bonding conducting parts so that they keep the same voltage and so do not create differential

When using electrical equipment it is important to ensure
* Correct equipment being used for the job
* Equipment is in good order
* Cables are in good condition
* Connected to correctly rated supply
* Plug properly wired and secured
* Correct fuse in place

Only equipment designed for harsh environments should be used in them. These include
* Damp
* Dust and vapour

No comments: