View Full Version : Replacing lamps in live fixture
hillbilly
07-06-2010, 08:47 PM
Does 70E prohibit removing or replacing HID lamps in a live fixture? I would assume this would be considered live work, but I have not seen any of our competitors following that rule if it applies. If it is allowed, what PPE would be required?
cbauer
07-07-2010, 05:30 AM
I know of no standards that would prohibit the replacement of lamps in an enregized HID fixture. As long as you are not opening the ballast compartment, you are not considered working on or near unguarded live parts.
hillbilly
07-07-2010, 06:45 AM
I know of no standards that would prohibit the replacement of lamps in an enregized HID fixture. As long as you are not opening the ballast compartment, you are not considered working on or near unguarded live parts.
What about the lampholder while the lamp is removed? It is not guarded.
cbauer
07-07-2010, 07:12 AM
Prohibitated approach boundary for an HID fixture is only 1 inch. Unless you are holding the lamp by the base, you should be alright.
George
08-18-2010, 05:43 AM
I think that this goes back to my question of how we are to interpret NFPA 70E. ie. Is the energized electrical work permit required when we are working ON live parts as stated in 130.1(B)(1), in which case I agree with the prohibited approach boundry rational? Or, is the energized electrical work permit required when before an employee works within the limited approach boundary as implied in 130.1(A)? The limited approach boundary is 3'6" for this example. Any input would be appreciated. I work for a chemical company with several mfg. sites. Currently we have a team of stubborn people, myself included, discussing this very issue of when an EEWP is to be required.
ChevsMark
08-19-2010, 06:17 AM
George,
From the looks of it I'd say both 130.1(A) and 130.1(B) apply. I feel your pain too. I've been working as an electrician for 35 years and many of my co-workers don't see the need for gloves etc. for hot work. The material will hit the fan soon when we get the face shields in and they get a refresher ESWP message from me, and my salary counterpart sits management down and tells them they have to start enforcing ESWP regs.
Hillbilly, the PPE would have to be voltage specific.