SAFETY
4
If benches are placed back-to-back, be especially careful about the use of the bench
opposite the test station. Signs should be posted:
"DANGER - HIGH VOLTAGE
TEST IN PROGRESS - UNAUTHORIZED PERSONNEL KEEP AWAY."
Power
Dielectric Voltage-Withstand Test Equipment must be connected to a good ground. Be
certain that the power wiring to the test bench is properly polarized and that the proper
low resistance bonding to ground is in place.
Power to the test station should be arranged so that it can be shut off by one prominently
marked switch located at the entrance to the test area. In the event of an emergency,
anyone can cut off the power before entering the test area to offer assistance.
Work Area
Perform the tests on a nonconducting table or workbench, if possible. If you cannot avoid
using a conductive surface, be certain that it is securely grounded to a good earth ground
and insulate the high voltage connection from the grounded surface.
There should not be any metal in the work area between the operator and the location
where products being tested will be positioned. Any other metal in the work area should
be connected to a good ground, never left "floating".
Position the tester so the operator does not have to reach over the product under test to
activate or adjust the tester. If the product or component being tested is small, it may be
possible to construct guards or an enclosure, made of a non-conducting material such as
clear acrylic, such that the item being tested is within the guards or enclosure during the
test, and fit them with switches so that the tester will not operate unless the guards are in
place or the enclosure closed.
Keep the area clean and uncluttered. All test equipment and test leads not absolutely
necessary for the test should be removed from the test bench and put away. It should be
clear to both the operator and to any observers which product is being tested, and which
ones are waiting to be tested or have already been tested.
Do not perform Hipot tests in a combustible atmosphere or in any area where combustible
materials are present.
TEST OPERATOR
Qualifications
This instrument generates voltages and currents which can cause
harmful or fatal electric
shock
and must only be operated by a skilled worker trained in its use.
The operator should understand the electrical fundamentals of voltage, current, and