OVERVIEW
The lifesaving rules ‘Always test before applying earths or straps’ and ‘never assume equipment is isolated – always test before touch’ can only be complied with if the Live Line Indicators used are maintained correctly. We have received reports which highlight that Live Line Indicators aren’t being tested and calibrated in accordance with the overhead line work instructions (NR/L3/ELP/27237).
All approved capacitive and resistive Live Line Indicators follow the same inspection and verification process with tests being completed both weekly and annually. Weekly tests - as a minimum each Live Line Indicator must prove correct functionality; this will be verified on known live 25 kV OLE once a week and proof of the test must be documented.
Annual inspection – as well as performing weekly tests on all Live Line Indicators they should also undergo annual calibration inspection. They should be calibrated and tested by an approved accreditor. It is recommended that the calibration is carried out by the manufacturer.
Both the weekly and annual inspections must take place.
A self-check functional test must also be carried out prior to use.
If you come across a Live Line Indicator that is outside of it's calibration date, place the item in quarantine, mark it ‘Not for Use’, and raise a close call.
IMMEDIATE ACTON REQUIRED
- All Live Line Indicators must be calibrated and tested in accordance with the overhead line work instructions standard (NR/L3/ELP/27237).
- Only Live Line Indicators with a valid calibration certificate must be available for use.
- When selecting the Live Line Indicator, you must check a successful weekly test has been completed or complete a test on a known live 25 kV conductor prior to use.
Safety-Advice-NRA23-01-Testing-and-calibration-of-Live-Line-Indicators-for-use-on-25-kV-OLE.pdf
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