Exposure to Electric Shock – Alarm Panel (Cheater cords)
Hazard:
Alarm technicians are accessing live (active) alarm panels for testing and servicing. During the installation of the panel the 120V electrical supply is not in place yet. The panel cannot be tested with a standard battery back-up. In place of the building power supply technicians are using extension cords with the female end cut off to connect to the panel and to an electrical socket to provide power to the panel. THIS IS AN ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD!
Preventative measures:
•To prevent shock, a manufactured cheater cord shall be used. These devices are specifically manufactured to be used for the purpose of testing the alarm panels and are UL listed devices.
•The 120V Circuit must be disconnected from the alarm panel. This creates the hazard of exposed wiring from the 120V circuit.
•The circuit breaker that contains the 120V circuit must be locked out and tagged out at the breaker panel and wire nuts shall be installed on the exposed wires.
•Crimp on fork terminals are to be installed on the end of the UL listed cheater cord. The terminals are installed onto the alarm panel and then plugged into the electrical socket.
•The process of using these cords for temporary power should only be done by licensed technicians not helpers.
•Before performing tasks in any electrical panel or equipment with exposed circuits, technicians will review and comply with PPE requirements specified in Appendix G. “Electrical Safety Policy” and Appendix H.“Lockout/Tagout Safety Policy” found in the VSC Health & Safety Program.