A new law regarding arc flash, established by the NESC states, “Effective as of January 1, 2009, the employer shall ensure that an assessment is performed to determine potential exposure to an electric arc for employees who work on or near energized parts or equipment.  If the assessment determines a potential employee exposure greater than 2 cal/cm2 exists, the employer shall require employees to wear clothing or a clothing system that has an effective arc rating not less than the anticipated level of arc energy.”

This law will require workers to wear arc flash suits when exposed to an exposure greater than 2 cal/cm2.  Arc flash is the result of a rapid release of energy due to an arcing short circuit between two or more adjacent conductors.  The cause of the short normally burns away during the initial flash, and the arc fault is then sustained by the establishment of a highly conductive plasma.  Arc flash produces temperatures above 35,000 degrees and statistics say 2000 people are admitted to the hospital every year because of arc flash injury.  The risk of arc flash has contributed to new laws such as the one stated previously beginning in 2009.  It is imperative to protect yourself from the dangers of arc flash by wearing the proper personal protective equipment when working anywhere a potential exists for arc flash.

Tic Tracers, also known as hot stick testers can be used to troubleshoot many issues in a wide variety of industries.  They are a relatively simple testing instrument that help electricians identify common electrical problems.  Use them to check fuses and breaker panels or to locate heating wires within walls.  They can locate breaks in insulated wire and heating elements, or to check voltage in outlets, switches and transmission lines.  These testers can also be used to do a safety check on power tools and appliances.  Some tic tracers are designed to find blown fuses or test light fixtures.  Some can even locate neutrals, ground faults, and high voltage lines without interrupting power.

Proximity voltage detectors allow you to detect electricity without breaking into power lines. The Proximity tester has a Beeper effect, the closer it comes to live electrical lines, the louder the signal of the beeper become. You don’t have to assume the unnecessary risk of touching live electrical wires when using this type of Tic Tracer.  Safety is always a high priority when working near any energized circuit.  Using a tic tracer will help keep you safe when troubleshooting electrical problems.

The Amprobe TIC Tracer 300HV detectors sense electrical system voltage electrostatically without wire contact. Check fuses, circuit breaker panels, power outlets, load break connectors, transmission lines and more with Amprobe Tic Tracers. Lightweight yet rugged unit features an audible signal, integrated switchguard, continuous duty cycle and instantaneous response.

The TIC300HV is for high-voltage with a three-position switch (high-voltage, off and low-voltage), visual indicator and two ac voltage ranges. Low is 30-1500 V ac. High is 1500-122,000 V ac, and it requires a Hot Stick and proper safety equipment. Use the TIF410A Hot Stick for voltages up to 121 kV. Safety ratings are UL, CE and MSHA.

Tic Tracer includes alligator clip leads, 9-volt battery and owner’s manual and come with one-year warranty.