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WARNINGS
• Do not use Compass for voltages below 2400 VAC.
• Compass only detects 60Hz AC Voltage and Currents
• Every energized AC conductor is surrounded by an electric field.
• Every electric current is surrounded by a magnetic field.
• As you move closer to any conductor, the electric field will become stronger.
• Greater voltages produce stronger electric fields.
• Lesser voltages produce weaker electric fields.
• Non-ferrous materials typically DO NOT block magnetic fields (i.e. plastics, dry wood, clothing, etc.).
• Ferrous materials DO block electric fields (i.e. iron, steel, etc.)
• Magnetic fields can be detected through non-shielded materials and some ferrous materials.
• Compass can’t tell if there is more than one energized threat in your area.
• Magnetic fields have a weaker field strength and will thus have a shorter warning distance.
• Electric fields have a stronger field strength and will thus have a greater warning distance.
• Underground PRIMARY cables are both insulated AND shielded. The shield is a conductor, it is
grounded, and will block the electric field.
• Molded cable terminators such as elbows - like the cables they are installed on - are both insulated and
shielded and will block the electric field.
• The human body WILL block electric fields, but will NOT fully block magnetic fields.
• Conductors lying on the ground or very close to it will result in unsafe warning distances.
• Electric fields will couple to the ground thus drastically reducing Compass warning distances.
• Use extreme caution around conductors near the ground as Compass will have substantially reduced
warning distances.
• Treat all conductors as “live” unless or until there is a visible break from a live source and a ground is
in place.
• Always use proper high voltage procedures for testing and grounding.
• Always use proper high voltage procedures, including personal protective equipment, when working
near or around high voltage equipment or conductors.
• Never rely on Compass as your sole source of high voltage detection.
• Risk of electrocution is inherent in and around high voltage.
• Do not walk backwards when working around energized equipment.
• Do not use Compass while holding it in your hand or in any other contact with your body. Doing so
will prevent electric current from being detected. Magnetic fields will still be detected, but the full
capacity of the Compass will not be utilized.
• Compass is to be used worn on the hard-hat only.
• Warning distances will be greatly reduced in high humidity and rainy environments.
• Never submerge Compass in water. If fully submerged, moisture could enter the enclosure and damage
Compass’s detection sensors leading to reduced warning distances or failure to detect a “live” voltage.
• There will be a reduced alert distance for multi-phase systems.
