![\"LOTO](\"https:\/\/kasacontrols.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/loto-300x300.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nLOTO instructions are critical to maintaining safety when\ninspecting control panels. LOTO stands for Lock Out, Tag Out and serves as a\nmethod to ensure that panels are properly shut off for maintenance or repair.\nBy locking out and tagging all devices that need to be energy isolated for\nsafety, you can prevent accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition to LOTO instructions and procedures, safety\nlabels on your control panel must always be clear and legible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finally, your control panel\u2019s Short Circuit Current Rating,\nor SCCR, refers to the max level of short-circuit the current component can\nwithstand. This is required to be labeled on all panels and helps determine compliance\nwith proper personal protective equipment (PPE) practices. Different situations\ncall for different PPE, and being aware of what\u2019s required is of utmost\nimportance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inspecting Control\nPanel Condition<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There are several conditions to be on the lookout for\noutside and around your control panel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ensure there\u2019s nothing blocking access and that there are no\nobjects leaning on the panel that could serve as impediments. Proper clearance\nshould also be maintained around your control panel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Follow the 36-inch rule, which refers to NFPA rules\nregarding the space around your panel and to OSHA standard 1910.303(g)(1). The\narea in front of your electrical panel must be kept clear for 36 inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n OSHA standard 1910.303(g)(1) specifically outlines when the\nnominal voltage to ground for a piece of electrical equipment is 600 volts or\nless, the minimum depth of clear working space in front of the equipment must\nbe at least three feet. The width of the working space should be the width of\nthe electrical panel or 30 inches \u2013 whichever is greater.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your panel should also be clear of dirt, animal matter and\ngrain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Scheduled Visual\nInspections<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n To ensure safety and compliance, schedule visual inspections\nregularly that are independent of scheduled or unscheduled downtime. These\ninspections should serve to confirm good overall working order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Inside your panel, check for signs of smoke damage, charred\nequipment, odd smells and other obvious damage. Inspect wiring to ensure it\u2019s\nin good condition without evidence of charring or heat damage and that wire\nlabels are clear and legible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Wire organization is also key. Wires should be clean and\norganized \u2013 no \u201cspaghetti wiring.\u201d Wires should reside in wire ways, and covers\nshould be in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Panel Equipment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Your panels should use updated PLCs and VFDs, which have a\nlife expectancy of 10 to 15 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Easily accessible electrical prints for your panel should\nalso be made available. Consider using a print pocket on the panel, itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Having program backups for PLCs, PCs, and VFDs, and spare\nparts like fuses, relays and breakers can help minimize unscheduled downtime.\nProgram backups can be used to replace or recover programs after memory loss or\nequipment failure. Your integrator should be able to provide further\ninstructions on how to back-up your equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n IR Scanning Every\nOther Year<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Unlike](\"https:\/\/kasacontrols.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/block-panel-259x300.png\")
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![\"Infrared](\"https:\/\/kasacontrols.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/ir-scanning-150x150.png\")
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