This 1600A Dorman Smith CB has stood guard over a switch board for around 35years without, as far as I know, anyone going near it. I suppose I should ask DS but
anyone know what service arrangements, if any, that it should be subject to?
Failures occurring when operating switchgear during inspection & testing (I & T) are one of the perils of the work. Many clients do not appreciate how long it might take to source replacements, particularly if the equipment is old.
I once operated the main intake protective device (ACB ) during a I & T in a large building society admin office - as the switch moved I heard a clatter which sounded like something had dropped off inside. This was on a Sunday and the office need to be open on Monday!
Whatever it was the switch had jammed - panic ensued but after many attempts I managed to close it again. I was waiting for a big bang but my luck was in!
I had to arrange for it to be replaced and this required isolation (by the DNO) from the supply transformer and fitting a replacement of a different type. It took several days to source the replacement and to fit it.
The question of who is liable for any loss here would be difficult to resolve. I did not have a particular disclaimer in my T & Cs but maybe it is something that should be considered.
Failures occurring when operating switchgear during inspection & testing (I & T) are one of the perils of the work. Many clients do not appreciate how long it might take to source replacements, particularly if the equipment is old.
I once operated the main intake protective device (ACB ) during a I & T in a large building society admin office - as the switch moved I heard a clatter which sounded like something had dropped off inside. This was on a Sunday and the office need to be open on Monday!
Whatever it was the switch had jammed - panic ensued but after many attempts I managed to close it again. I was waiting for a big bang but my luck was in!
I had to arrange for it to be replaced and this required isolation (by the DNO) from the supply transformer and fitting a replacement of a different type. It took several days to source the replacement and to fit it.
The question of who is liable for any loss here would be difficult to resolve. I did not have a particular disclaimer in my T & Cs but maybe it is something that should be considered.
