Recently, one of our Encore team members was replacing fire alarm (F/A) modules, when they encountered an unexpected electrical hazard. Working in the elevator lobby, the electrician found two ceiling-mounted modules with different wiring methods leading into the junction box (J-Box). One module had a live 120V circuit controlling the Fire Smoke Dampers. Aside from the flexible metal conduit entering the J-Box, there was no clear indication of voltage presence without testing with a meter. Additionally, the drawings did not specify 120V power for that module, and prior modules replaced that day did not have voltage present.
The electrician failed to recognize the wiring method type and did not test for voltage absence in the J-Box. During the replacement, he contacted the energized 120V conductor with his left hand and grounded out through his left elbow via a ceiling grid wire. He reported the incident to a colleague, leading to the circuit being identified, locked out, and tagged out.
This incident underscores the importance of always testing for voltage before working on electrical components. Remember at all times: “All conductors are to be considered energized until proven otherwise.” We have attached the 5 Why’s Root Cause analysis for this incident to review with your team.
