Transformers are an incredibly important part of the electrical power system. They play a crucial role in converting power to the right levels for consumer use and are always working unless there is a power outage or scheduled maintenance. Therefore, it’s vital for electric meter technicians to regularly assess transformers to ensure they are in good working conditions. The best way to do so is by using transformer testing equipment. However, they must practice caution as one wrong move could put the technician at risk of physical injury. Below is a rundown of safety tips you should have in mind during your next transformer testing task
Know the Type of Transformer Testing You are about to Carry Out
As a professional engineer, you already know that there are over eight types of current transformer testing. Each test is conducted for a particular purpose. For instance, a turns ration test is carried out to ensure the transformer provides the correct voltage step-up or step down. That said, before you head to the field, make sure you confirm the kind of test you are about to handle. Have a thorough understanding of every step and sequence of the testing process. This is essential as not following the necessary procedure could put you into harm.Also, it helps you determine the kind of energy meter testing equipment needed to complete the task.
Confirm You Have the Right Equipment
The last thing you want is to postpone a task because you got to the field and found your transformer testing equipment is not working. You also do not want to start and have to stop your work midway because of faulty transformer testing equipment. On that note, double-check your equipment even before you head to the field to confirm it’s in good shape.
The right transformer testing equipment not only enhances your safety further but also makes the process smooth sailing.
Understand the Hazards and Evaluate your Working Environment
Dealing with power, in general, is dangerous. But it can even be more dangerous when you are carrying out a current transformer testing. Therefore, before anything else, make sure you understand the hazards associated with your line of work.
Also, before you scale the transformer, ensure it’s grounded. This way, you don’t have to be worried about static electricity. You can also be confident that the coils won’t contact the enclosure while you are busy handling transformer testing. Before you get to work, make sure there is zero electrical leakage. Pay close attention to the voltage output ratings as well.
But that’s not all; you also need to assess what the weather is like because the last thing you want is a storm to find your up there. Understanding the hazards of working with power and taking the appropriate steps to prevent them is the key to staying safe while working with any energy meter testing equipment on a transformer. Once you are on the transformer, confirm that it is dry and moisture-free. Overlooking this puts you directly in harm’s way. On top of it all, put on your protective gear. You may be the most experienced meter testing engineer in your team, but that doesn’t make you immune to the dangers associated with your line of work.
Protect Others
Electricity is incredibly dangerous. As mentioned, one wrong move puts you at not only risk of physical injury and death, but also any other person around you. Therefore, ensure members of the public are aware of the danger by setting up caution signs.This is particularly essential because, unlike you, public onlookers are unskilled; hence, they don’t understand the danger they may be putting themselves in by coming close.
Don’t Carry Out a Task Alone
Lastly, keep in mind that as careful as you may be, life is pretty unpredictable. This means accidents happen when we least expect it. Therefore, during your next CT testing task, make sure you have at least two colleagues with you. This way, you can be confident that in case of an emergency, they’ll know what to do as they are also trained as well as can call for help.
