Upgrade Compliance for Safer, Faster LOTO Procedures
For electrical professionals and safety managers, compliance with NFPA 70E Article 120.6 is a critical step in protecting workers from arc flash and shock hazards while ensuring operational efficiency.
The ChekVolt, a Permanent Electrical Safety Device (PESD) by Grace Technologies, is specifically designed to simplify compliance with NFPA 70E 120.6, making Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures safer, more productive, and fully compliant.
The Problem: Time-Consuming and Hazardous Absence of Voltage Testing
Under NFPA 70E 120.6, an absence of voltage test must be performed to verify an electrically safe work condition. This process traditionally involves opening electrical enclosures to test phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground using a portable test instrument such as a multimeter. While effective, this method exposes workers to potential arc flash and shock hazards, increasing risk and prolonging LOTO procedure times.
The Solution: ChekVolt®
The ChekVolt is a touch-safe, panel-mounted PESD that allows qualified electricians to perform absence of voltage tests without opening the enclosure. This innovative device enhances compliance with NFPA 70E 120.6(4) and 120.6(7) while significantly reducing LOTO procedure times.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Voltage Presence Indication 120.6(4): Redundant LED indicators illuminate when hazardous voltage is present, providing a clear warning before testing begins.
- Absence of Voltage Testing 120.6(7): High-impedance protected test points enable phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground testing with a portable multimeter, ensuring safe and accurate verification of de-energization.
- Time Savings: By eliminating the need to open panels, the ChekVolt reduces LOTO times by 35-45 minutes, paying for itself after just 2-3 uses.
- Easy Installation: Designed to fit a standard 30mm knockout with potted lead wires for durability, even in harsh environments
Enhance Safety, Productivity, and Compliance Compliance Without Exceptions
ChekVolt fully adheres to NFPA 70E’s standard requirements without relying on exceptions. While Absence of Voltage Testers (AVTs) comply under NFPA 70E 120.6(7), Exception No. 1, ChekVolt complies directly under the primary rule, offering a seamless solution for electricians who prefer using portable test instruments.
ChekVolt integrates into existing workflows, allowing electricians to use their trusted multimeter for live-dead-live testing as outlined in 120.6(7). This makes ChekVolt ideal for professionals seeking a solution that works directly with their existing tools.
For electricians who prefer using their multimeter, the ChekVolt offers a compliant, reliable, and straightforward alternative. By enabling safe testing through high-impedance protected test points, the ChekVolt combines the precision of traditional methods with modern safety-by-design enhancements.
Boost Productivity & Mitigate Human Error
The ChekVolt delivers measurable productivity gains by streamlining the LOTO process while reducing risks associated with human error. Here’s how:
- Eliminating Panel Access Steps: Traditional LOTO requires workers to physically open the electrical panel to perform absence of voltage testing. This involves removing covers, exposing workers to potential arc flash hazards, and then resecuring the enclosure. ChekVolt allows these tests to be performed externally, bypassing these time-intensive steps.
- Streamlining Absence of Voltage Testing: With ChekVolt, qualified electricians can perform live-dead-live tests directly at the high-impedance protected test points using their portable multimeter. This reduces test times and ensures compliance with NFPA 70E standards.
- Reducing Downtime: By eliminating the need to open panels, LOTO procedures are completed 35-45 minutes faster per task. Over multiple applications, this translates into significant reductions in downtime for critical equipment, boosting overall operational efficiency.
- Fast ROI: With time savings achieved after just 2-3 uses, organizations see a rapid return on investment. The ChekVolt quickly pays for itself while contributing to safer, more productive operations.
Human error is a significant risk factor during LOTO procedures, potentially leading to dangerous incidents or compliance failures. The ChekVolt mitigates these risks in several ways:
- Incorrect Voltage Testing Locations: Workers may mistakenly test the wrong conductor or point within the panel, failing to verify de-energization properly. ChekVolt ensures consistent and accurate testing through clearly marked test points connected to the point of work.
- Bypassing Safety Steps: Time pressure or lack of training can lead to skipped steps in the LOTO process, such as forgetting to verify the test instrument’s functionality. ChekVolt simplifies the process, reducing opportunities for error.
- Inconsistent Procedures: Variability in worker experience or understanding of LOTO procedures can lead to inconsistent testing practices. ChekVolt standardizes absence of voltage testing, ensuring compliance across the board.
Tailored Solutions for Diverse Applications
The ChekVolt product line offers models tailored to specific industrial needs:
- ChekVolt AC3: Optimized for single-phase systems up to 1000 VAC in industrial applications.
- ChekVolt DC2: Ideal for solar panels and EV charging stations with two-wire DC systems up to 1000 VDC.
- ChekVolt DC3: Supports three-wire DC systems up to 1000 VDC, ensuring compatibility with designs requiring a separate ground-neutral connection.
- ChekVolt Bezel Mount Kit: Flush-mounted for a sleek, integrated appearance.
Why Choose ChekVolt?
The ChekVolt is a solution for achieving safer, more productive, and fully compliant electrical maintenance processes. With proven reliability, simple installation, and compatibility with NFPA 70E standards, the ChekVolt empowers organizations to:
- Reduce risks associated with arc flash and shock hazards.
- Streamline LOTO procedures, saving time and money.
- Enhance compliance with industry standards, ensuring safer workplaces.
By integrating ChekVolt into your safety protocols, you’re improving compliance with NFPA 70E and minimizing the risks associated with human error. The result? A safer, faster, and more reliable process for establishing an electrically safe work condition.