Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00407:body:0:p48
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00407
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 131108–134729

an installation, opening the main switch will open circuit the neutral rather than the active.
                                                                        * Intentionally disabling an interlock to perform a task e.g. opening the shutter of a 'rackable' circuit breaker test to prove de-energised in the orifice.
                                                                        * Inadvertently disabling an interlock while performing a task e.g. in a switchboard with an integrated circuit breaker, isolator and earth switch, the operator accidentally moving the isolator into the earthed position.
                                                                        * Poor direction and insufficient knowledge e.g. a worker is instructed to apply a set of earths and short circuits at a Ring Main Unit (RMU). The worker correctly observes the isolator is open, however they assume the earth switch can be closed because the isolator is open. As most RMUs are configured so the earth switch earths the cable, not the busbar, it is possible the worker would be earthing and short-circuiting
                                                                          a live circuit.
                                                                        * When applying a set of portable earths and short-circuits, accidental or inadvertent contact is made with live parts. If this occurs, the worker is using a device that is conducting fault current.
                                                                        * The threshold value (lowest level of indication or reading) of a test device causing a misleading interpretation of a test to prove de-energised. Depending on the device used, an indication that parts are not energised in a high-voltage situation does not mean that low-voltage and direct current voltages are absent.
                                                                        * Application of earthing and short-circuiting devices that depend on a conductive path through a fuse or circuit breaker that is not fit for purpose.
                                                                        * Ineffective connection to the general mass of the earth e.g. the electrode, grid or temporary electrode that the earth and short circuits relies upon in a situation where a single phase becomes energised.
                                                                        * Application of the short circuit portion of portable earthing devices prior to the earth tail being connected to the earth.
                                                                        * Arcing and splattering associated with the application of earths and short circuits, causing a risk. The arcing or splattering may result from using the device in situations that range from energised conductors to residual energy such as capacitance. If the parts are energised, the worker can draw the arc from one phase to the other, causing a phase-to-phase fault.
                                                                        * A potential electric shock path existing once the earth tail is connected to earth. A worker may touch another live part and the earthed connector at the same time, for example in a Common Multiple Earthed Neutral (CMEN) area, even when working on high-voltage, contact between the earthed connector and a low-voltage phase can cause an electric shock.
Working                                                             Arcs, explosions and electrical faults can cause burns. Workers should be protected from the effects of burns. Examples