ECN Forum Forums Safety Discussion and News Occupational Safety Discussion Correct procedure for operation of this switch?

That is if you can get your hand in this small space!

Most electricians have hands that may be a bit wider than the space left here!

Joe,
I'm assuming that the cover that usually fits on the front of this disconnect, would make the operating lever even harder to get at, once fitted.
One way you could do it, is to slip a piece of tubing or pipe (with the end flattened slightly) over the operating lever.
Not the best solution, but what else can you do?(apart from getting the idiot that installed it with his eyes shut to move it or put a longer lever on it).

BTW, is that switch in the 'make' or 'break' position?

Doug,
I'd say that it's in the "Make" (Closed) position, judging by the position of the right angle arm at the left side of the switch actuator.
BTW, can anyone tell me what that arm is for?, does it prevent "over-actuation" of the switch mechanism?.

[This message has been edited by Trumpy (edited 01-05-2004).]

In ANSI regions, handle down should correspond to an open switch. The pictured looks like an ITE-BULLDOG 'VACU-BREAK' switch that does not have readily visible blades. The interrupting means in enclosed in black bakelite cups behind the horizontal metal operating bale.

It appears there is an updated version in the form of a Siemens ‘VBII’ switch http://www.sea.siemens.com/circuit/product/Switches/VBII_select_app_1001.pdf

Gidday, Bjarney!.
I was just wondering about the fact that, when the switch is closed, will the arm move towards the front of the switch? (Outwards from where it is?)

Trumpy—That would be most likely.