Carry on lamping

Changing a light bulb shouldn’t cause too many problems for electrical contractors. But think again. The ECA Technical Department has issued a document urging its members to be aware of the risks associated with lamp changes in luminaires. This has been prompted by pressure from clients who insist that lamp changing is carried out live or without isolation of the luminaire.

The Health and Safety Executive suggests that before a decision is taken on whether the mains should be isolated prior to work commencing, contractors should carry out an assessment of the risks involved, on an individual basis. They are reminded of Regulation 14 of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: “no person shall be engaged in any work activity on or so near any live conductor...that danger may arise unless:

• it is unreasonable in normal circumstances for it to be dead;
• it is reasonable in all the circumstances to be at work on or near it while it is live;
• suitable precautions are taken to prevent injury.”

Members should carry out a risk assessment and assess whether there is a danger of individuals coming into contact with a live conductor while re-lamping.

There are obvious examples where there is normally low risk – fluorescent lamp holders, for example. But, there are also examples where clearly the luminaire must be isolated – linear tungsten halogen luminaires, for example.

Shrouding or erecting temporary barriers can be included as “suitable precautions” under Regulation 14 (c). Also the use of appropriate insulated rubber gloves may be suitable. Operatives should also consider general risks to third parties, such as dropping lamps, louvres and tools while carrying out such work.

There are, however, many other points that need to be taken into account. For instance, failed lamps should always be packed in the new lamp’s packaging and disposed of in accordance with current legislation. Lampholders and starters should be inspected for heat damage, while any diffusers in place should be handled with care as uv light will cause brittleness.

Additionally, when handling louvres, gloves should always be worn to avoid etching of fingerprints onto the mirrored surfaces.

With metal halide and halogen re-lamping, the supply must always be isolated for re-lamping and allow 5-10 minutes for the lamp and fitting to cool. These lamps must always be handled with gloves.

It is vital that operatives ensure there are no scratches on the outer bulb casing, as these can result in explosion of the lamp when burning.

Lamps should only be used on luminaires with tempered glass covers, as operation of lamps without a cover lid is dangerous.

Remember that lampholders are universal, so control gear should be checked against lamp wattage to ensure correct rating. Finally, remember that looking at the lamp source while illuminated can cause retina damage.