Thursday, January 29, 2015

Why Ground Fault System Certification Is Important To Businesses

By Ines Flores


Any electrical circuit will take the nearest route to a grounded surface when given the opportunity. If a person becomes the connector, the resulting shock may be damaging or fatal. If the phenomenon is the result of malfunctioning equipment or poor engineering, the cost can be measured in destroyed equipment and increased liability for injury. Ground fault system certification helps maintain higher levels of safety and compliance.

Even though it is assumed that any modern building or equipment containing electrical systems will be grounded properly, each situation has its own unique requirements. In cases where maintenance has been delayed or if mistakes were made in the original circuit design, there may be the potential for an arcing, low-level ground fault. This phenomenon produces effects similar to arc welding, and can destroy switching gear.

The International Electrical Testing Association, or NETA, cites figures showing that nearly fifteen percent of all installations that are tested have problem areas capable of producing injuries or damages. Protection against that possibility are mandated by the National Electrical Code in the United States, and includes installing specialized sensors able to discover and clear improper grounding within milliseconds.

They work by determining that electrical current is both going out and returning properly. If the pathway is out of phase, the electrical current will commonly take an alternate route that offers less resistance. That can be a building steel framework, pipes, or interior conduits. Safety devices monitor them by using current transformers to detect whether there is any deviation in the route, and a relay logic device that determines the value and timing of tripping current.

Most electrical safety designs include mechanisms that trip a switch or circuit breaker in the event of trouble, and also include testing panels that are capable of simulating unusual events and responses. While useful in some situations, these systems are not always in compliance with the established standards set forth by the National Electrical Code. The preferred method is manual inspection.

Well-trained and certified technical workers provide the advantage of access to the latest technological developments that are associated with equipment and building circuitry safety. Test equipment and procedures are uniformly calibrated to high standards that do not vary according to individual preferences. Most inspectors retain thorough records regarding past issues, and document any new problems.

NETA also provides certification for workers that ensures competency, which includes the use of accepted safety procedures and full awareness of all potential related hazards. They must meet minimum requirements for industry qualification, and have completed the necessary experience and training. Employees must also comply with the standards of independent and impartial certification required for accurate results.

Most insurers recommend system testing on a yearly basis. The expenses involve can vary depending on the timing of the event, the type of equipment to be inspected, and even the geographical location of the site. It may be necessary for the testing personnel to coordinate this activity with the local utility. Systems kept in optimal working condition can detect and prevent problems immediately, saving money in the long run.




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