PHAM NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2026 Test & Measuring Instruments Stay safe around electricity


Heating and plumbing engineers regularly encounter electrical hazards without fully appreciating the risk involved. Here, Steve Dunning, MD at Martindale, highlights some of the safe isolation procedures that are essential for anyone working on or near electrical systems.


or simply working in close proximity to live electrical circuits, even a small mistake can result in serious injury. Every year, electrical


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incidents affecting construction trades include electric shock, burns and life-threatening injuries, with some proving fatal. As electricity presents an


often-invisible hazard, safe isolation procedures are essential for anyone working on or near electrical systems. Correct isolation prevents accidental contact with live conductors by ensuring that all relevant circuits and equipment are fully de- energised before work begins, protecting both engineers and others in the surrounding area.


Lockout kits A comprehensive lockout kit forms the foundation of effective safe isolation. As a minimum, it should contain a selection of locking devices suitable for miniature circuit breakers and other breaker types, a padlock with a unique key or combination, a hasp for situations where more than one person is working on the


hether installing boilers, renewable technologies


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requirements of Gas Safe Register Technical Bulletin 118 (TB118), we offer a specific lockout/tagout kit and two dedicated safe isolation safety kits. The comprehensive LOKKITGAS1 kit consists of a set of four key locking- off devices ideal for most applications. The TB118KITA includes the LOKKITGAS1 plus the VI-13800 voltage indicator and the PD440S proving unit, providing a straightforward solution for safe isolation and proving dead.


Steve Dunning MD at Martindale Electric Co


same system, and a range of lockout tags and warning labels. The key or combination


must remain with the individual carrying out the work, or an appointed representative, ensuring no one else can remove the lock and inadvertently restore power. Once the breaker has been locked off, a clearly visible warning tag should be attached to indicate that the circuit is isolated and work is underway.


Proving dead Locking off a circuit is only one stage of the safe isolation process. Before work starts, the circuit must be proven


dead using a dedicated voltage indicator compliant with BS EN61243-3, such as the Martindale VI-13800 or VI- 15000. Voltage indicators intended


for proving dead must operate independently of batteries, eliminating the possibility of a flat battery producing an incorrect reading. Although some indicators provide battery status information, removing battery dependency altogether offers the safest solution. The correct procedure is to verify the voltage indicator


Taking control of pipe freezing


The new Smart Freeze Clamp from Arctic Hayes has been designed to bring an unprecedented level of accuracy, control and confidence to installers looking to isolate pipework on live systems. Combining precision freeze technology with digital intelligence, it uses ultrasonic sensing and real-time app monitoring to provide heating engineers with live feedback on exactly what is happening inside the pipe as it freezes. Visual countdowns and alerts throughout the freeze cycle enable installers to see when an ice plug has formed and when it begins to thaw.


This is made possible by an integrated ultrasonic sensor that confirms freeze formation by measuring the actual temperature of the pipe itself, rather than relying on estimated times or ambient conditions. The result is a more accurate and repeatable process, eliminating the guesswork that can lead to premature cutting. The system provides audible and visual confirmation when a solid ice plug has been achieved and also alerts users if the freeze begins to weaken and additional refrigerant is required. Available in 15mm and 22mm variants, it is optimised for the most


common UK copper and PVC pipe sizes and can be used on both horizontal and vertical pipework. The addition of dual-freeze capability further enhances its versatility. Using a Y-piece connection, engineers can operate two clamps simultaneously, allowing sections of pipework to be isolated with greater control. “Engineers can now see


exactly what’s happening in real time and know with confidence when it’s safe to proceed,” says UK business unit director Lee Parsons. “It’s a major step forward in both safety and efficiency.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/926/66


on a known voltage source, preferably a proving unit, before testing the circuit. Once the circuit has been checked, the indicator should be tested again on the same known source to confirm it has not failed during use. While a live source may be used, a matched proving unit provides a safer, more reliable and consistently available option.


For gas engineers To support gas engineers working close to electrical systems in meeting the


All you need The TB118KITB includes all the contents of the A kit, together with the EZ664 socket tester. This can be connected to standard 13- amp sockets or used with flying leads to check fused spurs, terminals and lighting circuits. It is also capable of measuring earth loop impedance without tripping any residual current device rated at 30mA or above. The kits are designed to support engineers where both safe isolation and earth loop verification are required. Electrical hazards are


often underestimated within the heating and air conditioning sector, making strict adherence to safe working procedures essential. By following correct isolation practices and using appropriate equipment together with reliable verification methods, engineers can significantly reduce the risk of serious accidents and help maintain a safer working environment for everyone involved. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/926/65


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