23.02.2022

New ECA video calls on electricians to “Plan, Test, Isolate!”

ECA has launched a new video as part of its campaign to reduce the number of injuries caused by incorrect isolation of low-voltage circuits (up to 1,000V AC or 1,500V DC).

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 14 people died from exposure to a live electrical circuit in 2020 alone. Since 2015, an average of 7 people a year are killed because of contact with a live electric current, and many more are injured.

ECA’s new video, called Don’t Cut Corners: Plan, Test, Isolate! highlighting the importance of safe isolation and outlining 10 key steps to planning, testing and isolating LV circuits before beginning work. Watch the video at https://youtu.be/jFPz8xjlSuU

Gary Parker, ECA Senior Technical Manager, said: “You wouldn’t drink and drive… so why would you work on a circuit without isolating it?

“If contractors are prepared, the likelihood of an accident is significantly reduced. Following these simple steps in our new video, will help installers plan ahead, work safely, and avoid accidents.”

Gary Parker has written a blog detailing the hazards of not isolating safety and outlining the employer’s role in making sure their staff work safely. You can read it here.

All electrotechnical professionals involved in the installation and maintenance of LV electrical installations should follow the advice in the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance, Electricity at work: Safe working practices (HSG85), Guidance Note GS38 and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, as well as following the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS7671:2018) and ESF’s Safe Isolation Guide.

For more information visit www.eca.co.uk

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