Portable Earthing Leads For Permanent Safety

Portable earthing equipment is an essential health and safety requirement, which ensures the operator’s safety when working on high voltage networks. This vital piece of equipment provides a safe and reliable earth, which discharges and grounds any induced or inadvertently applied voltages. Portable earthing equipment can include leads, clamps, operating poles, and sockets.

There is an inherent risk when operating under such dangerous circumstances. Safety comes first when dealing with high voltages. So here are some tips to keep in mind when dealing with portable earthing leads and equipment.

Portable Earthing Equipment 101

Portable earthing equipment provides a reliable pathway for electrical current to flow safely to earth. It’s designed for high fault levels, thus even during unanticipated power shutdowns, operators will still be able to work safely on the system.

Essentially, it is a preventative measure to ensure the safety of workers or those who might infringe on a safe working distance. Portable earthing can be applied to transmission lines, substation apparatus, switchboards, and cables.

Safety First

Here are some tips to ensure that you’re working with portable earthing equipment as safely as possible.

First, connection at the earth endpoint shall be performed prior to any connection to a conductor. If done in the reverse order, it would undermine the whole purpose of earthing. On this note, position the earthing tool in such a way that tension is minimized on the earth lead. Some slack is important, as there is some leeway, but not too much, to move if something goes wrong or pulls on the lead.

Second, always carry earthing equipment below shoulder level. Imagine a lightning rod sticking out above you while you’re holding it.

Third, do not allow any part of the earthing system to encroach on safe approach distances. In other words, as safety is the name of the game, you want to keep any potential live materials away from other people. So, establish a safe distance where you can apply the earthing system.

Fourth, ensure the earthing equipment rating is appropriate for the fault level at the location it will be applied at. The earthing equipment must have a greater fault withstand rating greater than the specified location.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, portable earthing equipment must always be visually inspected for mechanical defects before use. Record any defective earthing equipment and hand it in for maintenance and testing. Portable earthing equipment needs to be inspected and tested regularly to ensure it is safe to use.

As a manufacturer of portable earthing, Idube Electrical has the necessary personnel and equipment to do maintenance, repairs and testing. We can assist you in ensuring the safety of your portable earthing leads for your projects. Get in touch with us today.