ABSTRACT
Safe isolation is a very important skill and it is vital that it is carried out using the correct procedure. When carried out correctly, it eliminates as far as possible human error, which is the cause of most electric shocks. The HSE produce a document GS38, which sets out the safety requirements for the equipment used for measuring voltage current and resistance. This is a non-statutory document but compliance with it will ensure that the correct levels of safety with regards to testers, probes and test leads are achieved. A voltage indicator such as a two pole voltage detector is the preferred device. This will have simple indicator lamps that will show level of voltage present. This type of device is ideal as it has no switches and cannot be turned off or put on wrong setting. Three-phase isolation requires same equipment as single-phase isolation. The only additional equipment that may be needed are larger padlocks and lock off devices.
