Power transmission substation safety tips

 In India, the power requirement is estimated to reach 1650.59 billion units by 2023. Power substations play an important role in meeting these rising power demands.  A power station is a high-voltage electrical power system that can be used to switch electrical equipment, circuits and generators. Besides, it is also used in changing the AC voltage from one level to another. It would not be wrong to say that substations are the heart of the power distribution system. It is, therefore, important to formulate guidelines that will make substations more secure against known hazards.

Here we share with you some power transmission substation safety tips:

1. Secure the area around the substation:

Minimising safety threats from outside is an important concern that needs to be paid attention to. It is better to install metallic/non-metallic fences to prevent incidents of deliberate trespassing, children gaining entry into the area and stray animals and birds foraying into the premises. Appropriate warning signs must be put on the fences.

2. Do not use the substation to store equipment:

Substations are an integral part of the electrical grid, responsible for transforming and distributing electricity. However, often they have used storage facilities for equipment and other materials. This can lead to a number of unwarranted risks, including increased foot traffic in the area as materials are shifted in and out of the facility. Not everyone who enters the substation is aware of the dangers he or she is exposed to. So it is essential to not use the substation area for storage.

3. Make sure adequate training is provided personnel at the substation

Training is one of the important safety practices. Safety training must ensure that personnel:

 

●      Understand the risks that are present in the substation area

●      Wear appropriate PPE such as arc flash PPE, arc-rated clothing, gloves, safety glasses, shields, face masks, hard hats, and steel-toed shoes.

●      Maintaining and using each piece of equipment in a proper manner.

●      Be cautious even when around de-energised equipment. Maintaining the prescribed clearance and handling operations remotely if there is an option available.

●      Knowing how each function such as clearance requirements, what parts need to be energised at what voltages, levels of protection and risk involved.

●      Conducting routine inspections to check the equipment and area is safe.

 

4. Conduct regular visual inspections:

Visual inspections are not just an important part of preventive maintenance but also safety procedures. By regularly checking for signs of wear and tear, potential problems can be identified and dealt with before they cause serious damage. The first step in a visual inspection is to ensure that the area is safe to work in. Once the area has been assessed, the next step is to look for any visible signs of abnormality or failure. If any problems are found, they should be recorded and appropriate action is taken to rectify them.

5. Make sure the vehicles have safe access to substations

Vehicles entering substations should be properly guided by the designated personnel. They should only pass over designated crossing areas where reinforcement or steel plates are placed. There should be sufficient space so that vehicles should neither touch overhead lines nor should drive over underground cableways.