Busbars are metal conductors that carry high-voltage electricity, if they are not covered by the appropriate enclosures, they pose a serious danger to anyone who comes into contact with them, either directly or indirectly, as they can cause electric shock, burns, fire or explosion.
⚠️ Some of the dangers of exposed live busbars are ➡️
👉 Inadvertent Contact – accessing or egressing with long objects such as ladders, or from distraction while working near the exposed live parts.
👉 Electric Arcs – Live-exposed busbars can create electric arcs or sparks that can ignite flammable materials or gases in the vicinity.
👉 Damage to Equipment – Live exposed busbars can also cause damage to equipment or circuits that are connected to them, such as fuses, breakers, transformers or cables.
📖 According to BS7671:2022, Regulation 416.2.1 requires that live parts shall be protected against direct contact by barriers or enclosures unless they are out of reach or inaccessible.
📖 Also, regulation 543.7.1.201 requires that busbar trunking systems shall be selected and erected to minimise the risk of electric shock, fire and thermal effects.
✔️ Whilst attending site, our engineers came across two examples of exposed live busbars, which could pose a serious danger to life. Electrical Danger Notifications were issued to the Dutyholder and rectification works were completed where necessary.
