Sometimes it's necessary to drill into a panel, disconnect, switch, or any other electrical device that could yield live wires behind it. There was an incident in 2007 that left an apprentice with first degree burns because of drilling into a live panel. He was installing lamicoids (circuit identification tags) on a live main panel.
In an effort to help "reduce" the risks involved, I have composed a short "tip" for those of you who have to install near live wires, or devices. First, I'll show you a picture of what you potentially could be drilling into, then I'll show you a way to reposition your drill bit, so you won't be drilling so deep.
Procedures to be followed when drilling. It goes without saying that you are always to wear your personal protective equipment when drilling. Please refer to the safety section in the first year portion of this website..
#1) Open door, or cover - to plan where you are drilling.
#2) Place a pencil mark on your drill point, and double check that it will not pierce any wires, or circuit boards behind it. If it does, reposition your mark until it clears the dangerous areas.
#3) Draw drill bit into keyless chuck until it has recessed as far as it can go. Press the above demonstration for a visual.
#4) Try to keep doors, or covers away from live areas as much as you can. An example would be to leave the door that you are drilling ajar, so that you are nowhere near the wires. This will give you added protection from metal shards hitting live busbars, or accidentally piercing live wires.
Always shut off the power whenever you can.
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