Verifying Zero Energy State

[TVH]

With respect to LOTO can a Thermal Imager or Tick Tracer be used to verify zero energy state of electrical equipment after de-energization?

 

[WorkSafe]

I wouldn't rely on those. My opinion. A authorized mechanic should be trained in how to use a MM.

 

[John120/240]

DO NOT trust your life on a tick tracer. Use the

correct tool for the job. Get a multi meter or a volt-con (wiggy).

 

[weressl]

With respect to LOTO can a Thermal Imager or Tick Tracer be used to verify zero energy state of electrical equipment after de-energization?

Thermal imager would register any significant change long after the CURRENT stopped flowing and it is independent of the availability of VOLTAGE. Tick Tracers have gained the reputation to be unreliable, however it has proven to be mainly due to improper use, not faulty design. (Once an idea is set,it is very difficult to remove that reputation.)

Many Companies accept the pushbutton try of the equipment, in other words attempting to start it, however in my opinion it does not provide you with the assurance that power indeed was adequately removed.

So indeed, as mentioned by others, a properly used multimeter should be used to determine the complete removal of power at the source of the lockout device. Proper use: PPE and TBT as in Test Before Try. To verify the proper operation of the multimeter; connect it to a known power source before and after testing each phase against the others and each phase to ground.

There are LED indicating lights that can be permanently installed for equipment that needs frequent lockout and they instantly verify the removal of power without further testing.

 

[Twoskinsoneman]

Tick Tracers have gained the reputation to be unreliable, however it has proven to be mainly due to improper use, not faulty design. (Once an idea is set,it is very difficult to remove that reputation.)

I agree with this 100%. I personally always touch a wire to ground before handling the uninsulated part, or stripping (last safety measure). But I have yet to mistaken a hot wire for one that is dead using a Tick Tracer.

I have see someone using a MM determine a 480 fused disconnect was dead because when he touched the leads to the fuses the meter said OL. (He had accidentally taken his Fluke out of auto-range)