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Basics of Electrical Panel Inspection for Beginners



The foundation of any practice is always the knowledge of how to do the job safely and correctly. Practitioners of any discipline must follow the standards set by the regulating bodies to avoid hazards. This caution is necessary, especially when dealing with forces that could cause damages. 


Who Should Do the Inspection? 


When it comes to electricity, beginners must take the necessary to follow electrical safety rules to avoid risks of injuries or health hazards. That is why most inspections happen under the supervision of an experienced electrician and typically through a safe entry point like surface mount access panels.


Inspection of electrical panels can be harmful; thus, a licensed professional should carry it out with caution. When checking electrical panels, safety comes first, and no matter how much electrical experience you have, it's critical to follow the necessary safety practices.


Keep in mind: If you do not have adequate training and preparation, do not attempt to work on electrical wiring, switches, or outlets. When working with electrical components in a building, there is a high chance of electrocution risks, resulting in severe burns or death. Authorized personnel can safely access circuit breakers and fuses, and owners can visually inspect their electrical equipment for dangerous symptoms. They should not, however, take the cover off an electrical panel.


Consider These Ideas Before Doing Anything


Here is a checklist of what you may do:


Have a backup plan: If an unexpected danger arises, plan where you'll turn and steer away from the apparatus.


Utilize electrical safety equipment: Working with an electrical panel often necessitates the use of specialized safety equipment. Wearing safety goggles, gloves, protective clothing, and grounding straps is a must.


Undertake a first hazard assessment: As per the National Fire Protection Association, it's an excellent idea to conduct an individual risk assessment for electrical explosions, arcing, or flames (NFPA).


Risky Condition You Need to be Wary About


  • Gaps or an absent grounding mechanism: If an issue like a short circuit occurs, the grounding system provides an easy pathway for electricity to flow to the earth. Letting current flow in this manner assists a circuit breaker in triggering, which prevents shock and fire. A person without a ground path runs the risk of becoming the ground and being electrocuted.


  • Wet surface: If you're standing on a damp surface, don't contact electrical equipment, and be aware of any moisture in the location.


  • Corrosion or rust: Watch for any rust around the panel area and circuit breakers that may not trigger in response to an overcurrent due to internal corrosion. If breakers have these characteristics, replace them. If an electrical panel suffers deterioration badly, you may remove it entirely and place a new one.


  • Evidence of overheating: Watch for any indications of burning or melting inside the panel.


  • Indications of incorrect bonding: Watch out for faulty or damaged wiring and equipment.


  • Discontinue touching or inspecting a panel if you sense a tingle, charge, or shock.


Safeguard the Owner


Protecting the owner during an inspection is of the utmost priority for any electrician. Here's another list of things that you may want to consider:


  • Explain the risks in detail.

  • Allowing the owner to help you remove or install the panel cover is not a good idea.

  • At all times, only the electrician should be touching electrical components.

  • Remind the owner to keep a safe distance during the repair.

  • Maintain your blocking stance between the panel and the owner.

  • Before you cut off the electricity, notify the owner.

  • Report any limits to an inspection.


Other Indications of Danger


Here are other signs of danger that you need to look out for:


  • Limitations to access the panel

  • Sounds of cracking or popping

  • A panel that is sloppy, small, or upside-down

  • Components that have become obsolete

  • Panel apertures that do not have protection

  • Supporting materials that are not appropriate

  • Circuit breakers that aren't the right size

  • Circuits that aren't identifiable

  • Panel box screws with a sharp edge or wires damaged by these screws (Panel box cover screws should have blunt tips to avoid piercing the box's wires.)

  • Pest damage

  • Aluminum branch wiring


It is not easy working as a beginner in your chosen field. It will take many years of trial and error and practice and study to reach a point where you can safely and proficiently do your job. If you still can't find your footing or you need to have a mentor, never hesitate to reach out to a more experienced licensed electrician for a piece of solid advice. 


For more comprehensive product information about access doors and panels, visit https://www.accessdoorsandpanels.com/, where you can find high-quality products from various brands, all sorted in a categorized manner. You can also call us at 1-800-609-2917 if you need additional assistance or if you have other inquiries.
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