Testing shows that one in every 337 light poles is electrically unsafe
These light standards present a shock or electrocution hazard to humans and animals that may make intentional or accidental contact.Incorrectly referred to as stray voltage, in reality these energized poles have electrical faults that may originate from any number of causes:
Pinched electrical wires during initial installation or routine maintenance Damaged or degraded insulation from age, de-icing salts, and rodents Motor vehicle accidents Vandalism Wire theft
Fault investigation shows that many of these poles are grounded with a ground rod or other made electrode according to standard design plans and specifications, but most lack proper bonding.Inadequate or missing bonding conductors prevent the operation of overcurrent devices such as fuses or circuit breakers, which removes the hazardous voltage during fault conditions.The practice ofsimply installing a “ground rod” at a light pole offers no safety protection to passers by.
The Voltage Survey is used to quickly identify dangerous poles that are present on the lighting system.Survey test technicians use state of the art voltage detectors to identify potential voltage sources.Any positive indication by the voltage detector is then further tested using a voltage meter to record the actual level of electricity that may be present.Confirmed readings of 8 volts AC or greater are immediately guarded until a repair crew can be dispatched to make the situation safe.
While emphasis is often placed on light pole testing, the Voltage Survey can also be used to test any number of other surfaces including manhole covers, junction boxes, traffic signals, guy wires, pad mounted transformers, and electrical cabinets.Keep in mind that concrete poles and surfaces such as sidewalks can also conduct electricity during fault conditions.
Voltage Survey Light Pole Safety Testing is ideal for any electrical system that has 100 or more street lamps, including:
Electric Utilities Municipalities Transportation Departments City Lighting and Signal Departments Transit Park and Rides Military Bases Corporate Campuses Business Parks Housing Developments Apartment Complexes
Power Quality Testing LLC is a registered Veteran Owned, Service Disabled, Small Business
