Incorporating voltage indicators (VIs) and voltage testers into your electrical safety strategy makes for a strong and reliable isolation procedure. But on its own, this isn’t enough. Research shows that thousands of VIs are still being used without a cross test and tragically, the industry continues to witness injuries and fatalities from work on live circuits mistakenly thought to be dead.
However, the risks can be significantly reduced and safer working practices established very easily, by using a proving unit.
Ensuring your VI is accurate is just as crucial as making sure the equipment you’re working on isn’t and won’t become, live. This is a vital safety step that cannot be stressed enough and must never be overlooked. A proving unit is the key.
“A test lamp or voltage detector should be proved to be working before and after use. This should be achieved preferably by the use of a propriety proving unit or inbuilt self-test facility."
Electrical Safety First
Best Practice Guide 2 (Issue 3) pg.14
To truly ensure a circuit is not live, it's crucial to check your VI with a known source, such as a proving unit, before and after you test the circuit. This double-check confirms your VI is working correctly. Using a proving unit designed to work with your VI is best, as it will check all LED indicators across the tool's range to protect against false readings from, for example, a faulty LED. A proving unit is also safer to use than mains power and can be used wherever you work, so you don't have to leave your workspace to check your tool.
Martindale offers the most comprehensive range of proving units for a variety of voltage levels – 240V, 440V and 690V. Each unit has a durable, streamlined design and long-lasting battery life, with the convenience of a low battery warning. The inclusion of the MAG3, a robust magnetic hanger, means effortless, hands-free use in a range of work settings. The Calcheck function included in some models is essential for validating the calibration of resistance ranges on testing equipment.
Find out more about Martindale Electric’s proving device range visit https://martindale-electric.co.uk/proving-devices/