When it cannot be avoided. (often in commercial and industrial)I do the same thing everytime.
First, since being burned in the face from an arc flash. I will not go in a hot panel w/outa face shield on. Some people give me funny looks, but they have never been burned. Ever have painfuly chapped lips? Multiply that by 10!
Any way, when disconnecting a device or circuit with a neutral (circuit is hot) always disconnect the hot wire first. Than the neutral. Reverse when assembling. The "load" hurts alot more when it whacks you!
Also, be aware of where your limbs and other parts of your body are when handling live circuits. In a ceiling for example with steel joists, dont be holding on to the steel with one hand while handling circuits in the other. COMMON sense!
The best tool I ever bought, was a quality cicuit tracer. I use it everyday. DO nOT trip circuits, or attempt to to find breakers. People do it all the time, because they dont understand that the one time in a 100 time u do this u could cause a fire, injury or death.
Also dont be afraid to simply say, I will not work on this Hot!
I am sure the other experienced personnel on this forum can add, with there experiences.
[This message has been edited by ayrton (edited 03-07-2007).]
