Live testing: energy sources and direct controls

Live testing deliberately applies electrical energy while people are working close to the equipment under test.

High-energy check

Treat all live testing as high energy. Test steps, barriers and authorised persons must be defined before energy is applied.

This task's main energy sources are not calculated by this tool. Use the trigger checks below and competent-person verification.

Trigger checks

Electrical
Current, voltage, energisation, arc flash or stored electrical energy.
Thermal
Heat, cold, flame, steam, sparks or thermal stress.

Direct controls to verify

Ticks stay on this screen only. Nothing is saved or sent.

Test area is barriered with authorised persons only inside.
Test steps are written and followed in sequence.
Test leads and instruments are rated for the voltage present.
A second competent person is present during live work.
Affected trades are informed before energy is applied.
Stop if anyone not authorised enters the test area.

For your SPA or pre-start

State the test scope, the barriers and exclusion around the equipment, the authorised persons and how the test is communicated to other trades.

Limitations: This tool supports planning and verification only. It does not replace competent risk assessment, legal duties, employer procedures, client requirements or competent supervision.