Avoid Miscues During Electrical Switching: Create and Follow Clear, Preplanned, Written Procedures

The operation of electrical power systems is often accomplished safely with planned written switching orders or procedures. These procedures are usually step-by-step executable plans detailing the necessary actions to energize, de-energize, isolate, or alter the configuration of an electrical system for maintenance. Written switching procedures afford the electrical operations crew the opportunity to address preemptively the risks, necessary personnel, notifications, personal protective equipment (PPE), and lockout items needed for safe switching. This article reviews the applicable regulations, technical documentation, risk management, resources, emergency reparation, review/approval, and other basics of developing a successful switching procedure.