Electrical Isolation and Independent Verification
A Dark Indicator Is Not Proof of a Dead Circuit
An extinguished lamp, stopped motor or blank display shows a change in operation, not that electrical danger has been removed. A failed indicator, separate supply or stored energy can leave a hazard behind. Work on electrical equipment belongs to competent authorised people using the approved isolation and verification process, never to someone relying on what the equipment appears to be doing.
Controls to confirm
- Have an authorised competent person identify the exact equipment, every supply and any stored-energy hazard using current information and field checks; resolve discrepancies before work begins.
- Secure the approved isolation against reconnection and apply the site’s lockout and access-control process so every affected worker remains protected throughout the task.
- Have the competent person verify the safe condition at the point of work with suitable reliable test equipment and the approved method; stop if verification is uncertain or the work scope changes.
Today’s action
Review one planned electrical job with the authorised person and confirm that the isolation and point-of-work verification are explicit before the job is released.
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