Safety is not optional when it comes to protecting workers from the dangers of live systems, so safe isolation leader Martindale Electric has created a new video that demonstrates a correct, compliant safe isolation procedure from start to finish.
This practical and highly informative visual demonstration sees Martindale safe isolation expert, Glenn Patullo, cover essential steps like correct, compliant equipment; permission and risk assessment; initial prove; confirm circuit is live, isolation and lock off; prove dead (correct test sequence) and reprove the tester. He also explains, the importance of checking for live metalwork as an additional test.
Glenn says: “Quite simply, safe isolation saves lives. It’s one of the most fundamental and mission-critical controls in electrical safety, so always follow the procedure, use the right equipment and never assume a circuit is dead.”
Highlights of the video include an example of lockout tagout process and a full correct procedure for safe isolation. There’s also a reminder that before isolation begins, permission must be obtained from the duty holder or authorised person, and a risk assessment and method statement must be in place.
Having identified the correct point of isolation, the isolating device is shown to be secured in the OFF position using a unique padlock and a warning tag applied, because no lockout means no safe isolation and the system can be proved dead. Here Glenn explains the three-test sequence needed for single-phase and the ten tests required for three-phased systems.
Last but certainly not least, Glenn advises re-proving the voltage indicator on the proving unit, because this confirms the tester has not failed during use and that the results can be trusted.
Also explained is why multimeters and non-contact voltage sticks are not suitable for proving dead. Glenn covers why a live metal check is critical where there are exposed metal parts, an additional safety test using a single-pole indicator or similar device. This is essential where wiring faults, diverted currents, or shared neutrals may exist.
When the circuit is safely isolated and proved dead, work can begin, but there is a reminder that once it’s completed, re-energising must occur and follow a controlled process namely: complete required dead testing; remove lockout devices and tags; restore supply; carry out live tests and commissioning, plus complete all relevant certification.
Checkout the new Safe Isolation Procedure Video in its entirety at: https://martindale-electric.co.uk/safe-isolation-procedure-video-guide/