Our January issue was all about hybrid and EV technology. By some accounts, these vehicles will make up nearly 50% of the vehicle "fleet" by the year 2030. Are you ready and able to service these customers? We wanted to see by testing your knowledge of safety practices you should follow when working near or on high voltage systems. We asked:
All of the following are essential safety steps that must be performed prior to servicing a High Voltage system component; whether it's the battery, the inverter, the electric A/C compressor, or any other. All, that is, EXCEPT:
A. Wear proper safety equipment, including insulating lineman's gloves and leather overs.
B. Follow the OEM procedure for isolating the HV battery, using the Service Disconnect.
C. Test the integrity of the safety gloves by filling them with water and checking for leaks.
D. Remove all jewelry prior to servicing the HV system or any of its components.
You’re correct if you answered C!
The rubber lineman's gloves can be checked by folding over the cuff and rolling them toward the finger end, trapping air inside and then inspecting for any sign of a leak. Additionally, gloves should be routinely sent in for testing and recertification or replacement. Even a pinhole can allow a path for the high voltages associated with hybrid and EV vehicles!
A lot of you submitted answers for this month's question! But only one lucky reader can win, and this time it's Jamie Stith of Elkhart, Indiana. Congratulations Jamie! Our friends at Federated will be sending you your collectible diecast soon!
To try out this month's question, click HERE. And don't forget to complete your entry form afterward - it's the only way you can be considered for our next random drawing!
