STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
WORKING ON ELECTRAL PANELS
Use Proper PPE :
- Helmet
- Safety Shoes
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Full face mask if working on live panel
- No tie
- No rings on finger/ kada
Electrical power must be removed when electrical equipment is inspected, serviced, or repaired. Equipment is locked out and tagged out before any preventive maintenance or servicing is performed.
Lockout is the process of removing the source of electrical power and installing a lock which prevents the power from being turned ON.
Tagout is the process of placing a danger tag on the source of electrical power which indicates that the equipment may not be operated until the danger tag is removed.
A danger tag has the same importance and purpose as a lock and is used alone only when a lock does not fit the disconnect device. The danger tag shall be attached at the disconnect device with a tag tie or equivalent and shall have space for the worker's name, craft, and other required information. A danger tag must withstand the elements and expected atmosphere for as long as the tag remains in place. A lockout/tagout is used when-
- Servicing electrical equipment that does not require power to be ON to perform the service .
- Removing or bypassing a machine guard or other safety device.
- The possibility exists of being injured or caught in moving machinery .
- Clearing jammed equipment.
- The danger exists of being injured if equipment power is turned ON.
A lockout/tagout shall not be removed by any person other than the person that installed it, except in an emergency. In an emergency, the lockout/tagout may be removed only by authorized personnel. Always remember- Use a lockout and tagout when possible PREPARE & PREVENT, INSTEAD OF REPAIR & REPENT
Use a tagout when a lockout is impractical. A tagout is used alone only when a lock does not fit the disconnect device Use a multiple lockout when individual employee lockout of equipment is impractical Notify all employees affected before using a lockout/tagout Remove all power sources including primary and secondary Measure for voltage using a voltmeter to ensure that power is OFF Ø Lockout devices are lightweight enclosures that allow the lockout of standard control devices. Lockout devices are available in various shapes and sizes that allow for the lockout of ball valves, gate valves, and electrical equipment such as plugs, disconnects, etc. Ø Use proper/appropriate insulated tools. Ø Check earth connection on Panel. Ø Carry out necessary repairs / PMS as per activity codes & schedules. Ø After completion supervisors must check/inspect the panel/feeder panel for any tool/loose item in the panel. And take the panel/feeder panel in service.
Note: Only trained Electrician/Supervisor is authorized to work on LT/HT Panel.
