Fluke C9970 User manual

PN 1286912
May 2007, Rev. 5 10/2017
©2007-2017 Fluke Corporation
All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.
C9970
Voltage Detector
Users Guide

LIMITED WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Each Fluke Networks product is warranted to be free from defects in material and
workmanship under normal use and service. The warranty period for the mainframe is
one year and begins on the date of purchase. Parts, accessories, product repairs and
services are warranted for 90 days, unless otherwise stated. Ni-Cad, Ni-MH and Li-Ion
batteries, cables or other peripherals are all considered parts or accessories. The
warranty extends only to the original buyer or end user customer of a Fluke Networks
authorized reseller, and does not apply to any product which, in Fluke Networks’
opinion, has been misused, abused, altered, neglected, contaminated, or damaged by
accident or abnormal conditions of operation or handling. Fluke Networks warrants
that software will operate substantially in accordance with its functional specifications
for 90 days and that it has been properly recorded on non-defective media. Fluke
Networks does not warrant that software will be error free or operate without
interruption.
Fluke Networks authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused
products to end-user customers only but have no authority to extend a greater or
different warranty on behalf of Fluke Networks. Warranty support is available only if
product is purchased through a Fluke Networks authorized sales outlet or Buyer has
paid the applicable international price. Fluke Networks reserves the right to invoice
Buyer for importation costs of repair/replacement parts when product purchased in
one country is submitted for repair in another country.
Fluke Networks warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke Networks option, to refund of
the purchase price, free of charge repair, or replacement of a defective product which
is returned to a Fluke Networks authorized service center within the warranty period.
To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke Networks authorized service
center to obtain return authorization information, then send the product to that
service center, with a description of the difficulty, postage and insurance prepaid (FOB
destination). Fluke Networks assumes no risk for damage in transit. Following
warranty repair, the product will be returned to Buyer, transportation prepaid (FOB
destination). If Fluke Networks determines that failure was caused by neglect, misuse,
contamination, alteration, accident or abnormal condition of operation or handling,
or normal wear and tear of mechanical components, Fluke Networks will provide an
estimate of repair costs and obtain authorization before commencing the work.
Following repair, the product will be returned to the Buyer transportation prepaid
and the Buyer will be billed for the repair and return transportation charges (FOB
Shipping point).
THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTY OR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. FLUKE NETWORKS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT,
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA,
ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied
warranty, or exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, the
limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not apply to every buyer. If any
provision of this Warranty is held invalid or unenforceable by a court or other
decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or
enforceability of any other provision.
4/04
Fluke Networks
PO Box 777
Everett, WA 98206-0777
USA

i
Contents
Title Page
Introduction ...................................................................................................1
Registration ....................................................................................................1
Contacting Fluke Networks ...........................................................................1
Safety Information .........................................................................................2
Care and Maintenance ..................................................................................3
Mechanical Shock .....................................................................................3
Environment .............................................................................................4
Water Resistance ......................................................................................4
Defacing or Altering the Housing ...........................................................4
Carrying the Voltage Detector ................................................................4
Storage ......................................................................................................4
Battery Replacement ................................................................................4
Safety Gloves ..................................................................................................5
Theory of Operation ......................................................................................5
Physical Description .......................................................................................6
Accessories ......................................................................................................7
Temporary Bond .......................................................................................7
Connecting the Temporary Bond ........................................................7
Disconnecting the Temporary Bond ...................................................7
Storage Bag ..............................................................................................8
Ground Cord .............................................................................................8
Test Plug ...................................................................................................8
Periodic Performance Tests ...........................................................................8
Self Check .................................................................................................8
Test Plug Threshold Test ..........................................................................10
Service Center Repair and Verification ...................................................10
Operation .......................................................................................................11
AC Hazardous Voltage Testing ................................................................12
DC Hazardous Voltage Testing ................................................................13
Aerial Testing ...........................................................................................14
Applications ....................................................................................................14
Ground Level ............................................................................................15
Telephone Cable Sheath ..........................................................................15
Damaged Cable Closure ...........................................................................15
Base of Pole: Telephone Plant Repairs ....................................................16
Loose Plant ...............................................................................................16
Temporary Bond .......................................................................................16
Ungrounded Insulated Conductors .........................................................17
Traffic Lights .............................................................................................17
Specifications ..................................................................................................18

ii
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide

1
C9970 Voltage Detector
Introduction
The C9970 Voltage Detector is a high-voltage probe used for detecting
hazardous voltage on objects such as power ground wires, street light fixtures,
mobile homes, metal frameworks, metal conduit, pedestals, newly-driven
ground rods, homes covered with metallic siding, and electrical machinery.
This manual describes the proper care and use of the C9970 Voltage Detector
and its accessories. Read this manual completely before using the Voltage
Detector.
Registration
Registering your product with Fluke Networks gives you access to valuable
information on product updates, troubleshooting tips, and other support
services. To register, fill out the online registration form on the Fluke Networks
website.
Contacting Fluke Networks
www.flukenetworks.com
[email protected]
[phone]
 Australia: 61 (2) 8850-3333 or 61(3) 9329 0244
 Beijing: 86 (10) 6512-3435
 Brazil: 11 3759 7600
 Canada: 1-800-363-5853
 Europe: [phone]
 Hong Kong: 852 2721-3228
 Japan: 03-6714-3117
 Korea: 82 2 539-6311
 Singapore: 65-6799-5566
 Taiwan: (886) 2-227-83199
 USA: 1-800-283-5853
Visit our website for a complete list of phone numbers.


2
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide
Safety Information
The following IEC symbols are used either on the Voltage Detector or in this
manual:
WWarningX
To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, or personal injury:
 Carefully read all instructions.
 Read all safety information before you use the Product.
 Use the Product only as specified, or the protection supplied by the
Product can be compromised.
 Only qualified personnel who have been trained and are
knowledgeable about the dangers associated with hazardous
voltages should use this product.
 Be sure to know and follow your company’s procedures for every
application. Any conflict between the procedures specified in this
manual and those of your company must be resolved before using
the Product.
 Comply with local and national safety codes. Use personal
protective equipment (approved rubber gloves, face protection, and
flame-resistant clothes) to prevent shock and arc blast injury where
hazardous live conductors are exposed.
 Measure a known voltage first to make sure that the Product
operates correctly.
WWarning: Risk of personal injury. See the manual for details.
Caution: Risk of damage or destruction to equipment or
software. See the manual for details.
XWarning: Risk of electric shock.
.Earth ground
~Do not put products containing circuit boards into the garbage.
Dispose of circuits boards in accordance with local regulations.
CAT IV IEC Measurement Category IV. CAT IV equipment is designed to
protect against transients from the primary supply level, such as
an electricity meter or an overhead or underground utility
service.
)Complies with North American safety standards

3
Care and Maintenance
 Do not use the Product around explosive gas, vapor, or in damp or
wet environments.
 Do not directly contact voltages greater than 1000 VAC.
 If the voltage to be measured is unknown, do not directly contact
the voltage. Use the voltage alert function to determine if the
voltage is hazardous.
 Do not use the Product if it is damaged.
 Hold the product behind the flashguard.
 Do not use the Product if it operates incorrectly.
 Do not operate the Product with covers removed or the case open.
Hazardous voltage exposure is possible.
 Have an approved technician repair the Product.
 Use only specified replacement parts.
 Repair the Product before use if the battery leaks.
 Batteries contain hazardous chemicals that can cause burns or
explode. If exposure to chemicals occurs, clean with water and get
medical aid.
 Remove the batteries if the Product is not used for an extended
period of time, or if stored in temperatures above 50 °C. If the
batteries are not removed, battery leakage can damage the Product.
 Do not keep cells or batteries in a container where the terminals can
be shorted.
 Do not put battery cells and battery packs near heat or fire. Do not
put in sunlight.
WCaution
To avoid possible damage to the Voltage Detector or to the
equipment under test, use the proper terminals and function for
your measurements.
Care and Maintenance
Periodically, clean Voltage Detector surface with a clean, damp cloth.
Mechanical Shock
Do not drop the Voltage Detector or subject it to severe mechanical stress
which may damage the protective insulation or internal circuitry. The Voltage
Detector should be tested and repaired if it appears to be damaged or fails to
meet the tests described in “Periodic Performance Tests” on page 8.

4
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide
Environment
Do not expose the Voltage Detector to extreme temperatures (below -40 °C or
above +60 °C) or chemicals that may soften, crack, or otherwise damage the
plastic housing.
Water Resistance
Although the Voltage Detector is water resistant, do not expose it to water. If
wet, it must be dried completely and checked for proper operation before
use. (If a test plug is unavailable, a 110-120 VAC, 60 Hz source may be
temporarily substituted with caution.)
Defacing or Altering the Housing
Do not drill, punch, engrave, or otherwise modify the housing of the Voltage
Detector. Do not use adhesives, adhesive labels, inks, solvents, or expose to
chemicals which may alter the housing. Defacing or altering the Voltage
Detector may lower or destroy its sensitivity to hazardous voltages and will
void the warranty.
Carrying the Voltage Detector
Keep the conductive cap over the probe end of the Voltage Detector when it
is not in use to avoid damage to the tip and possible hazard to the user. The
carbide tip is sharp and should be treated accordingly.
Storage
Do not subject the Voltage Detector to possible pressure or damage from
other tools or material. Pressure may cause the switch to operate and
discharge the battery. Do not store the Voltage Detector near strong magnets.
Battery Replacement
When replacing batteries, work in a dry place. Always replace the battery with
a 9 V zinc-carbon battery. Fluke Networks recommends a Rayovac® 9 V
battery, Model D1604.
WCaution
Some imported 9 V batteries are slightly oversized. If an over-
sized battery is installed, the metal shield may be torn from the
circuit board. Therefore, if the replacement battery seems
tighter than the original, try a different brand of
battery,preferably the Rayovac® brand given above.
The battery should be checked periodically and replaced yearly.

5
Safety Gloves
To replace the battery, do the following:
1 Open the Voltage Detector body by unscrewing the handle in a counter-
clockwise direction and sliding it back from the front assembly. Do not
attempt to loosen the check contact or the ground terminal.
2 Gently slide the battery out of the metal shield, attach a new battery, and
slide it back into the metal shield. Be careful not to get the battery wires
between the metal shield and the side of the battery or to bend or distort
the metal shield.
3 Slide the handle over the shield and rotate in a clockwise direction until a
snug fit is secured. Make sure that the LEDs line up with the trigger, or
the probe switch may not operate. A snug fit is required for proper O-
ring seal and LED alignment, but it is not necessary to overtighten.
Safety Gloves
The Voltage Detector is designed to detect voltages equal to or greater than
110V, 60 Hz, AC. Using gloves reduces the sensitivity of the Voltage Detector
and may cause erroneous results (see “Theory of Operation” below). If
protective gloves are worn while using the Voltage Detector (or are required
by company procedures) and a hazardous voltage is indicated, do not retest
without gloves. Move away and refer to your company’s safety procedures.
However, if the user is gloved and a safe condition is indicated, perform a
second test without gloves and follow the results of this second test.
Theory of Operation
The Voltage Detector uses electronics and high-voltage mechanical design to
indicate the presence of dangerously-high AC and DC voltages. To do so, it
first determines the voltage difference between the user’s body and the
object being tested. Then, it compares that difference to an internal safety
reference. If the voltage difference exceeds this reference, the Voltage
Detector indicates danger. No interpretation of readings is required.
The capacitance between the handle of the Voltage Detector and the user’s
hand is part of the measuring circuit and can affect the sensitivity of the
Voltage Detector. Further, voltages induced onto the user’s body can also
affect readings. Such voltages can be induced when the user is isolated from
ground while working aloft near power transmission lines. These induced
voltages can cause the Voltage Detector to indicate danger when none
actually exists. These induced voltages are harmless, but must be discharged.
The correct procedure is described under “Aerial Testing” on page 14.

6
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide
Physical Description
The Voltage Detector, shown in Figure 1, is a yellow, plastic, two-piece, unit
that weighs approximately one pound.
The front housing includes the carbide probe tip and two LEDs (one green
and one red) along with a check contact and a ground terminal. These and
the battery are attached to the front housing.
The rear housing, which acts as a handle, includes a set of concentric rings
(called the flashguard), the on/off switch (called the trigger), an instruction
label, and a belt clip.
EMU01.EPS
Figure 1. Voltage Detector
LEDs
(red and green) Ground terminal Trigger
Flashguard
Check
contact
Conductive
end cap
Probe
tip
Instruction
label
Belt
clip

7
Accessories
Accessories
The following sections describe the accessories available for the Voltage
Detector, which are shown in Figure 2.
EMU02.EPS
Figure 2. Voltage Detector and Accessories
Temporary Bond
The Voltage Detector temporary bond is used to temporarily ground a light
fixture, metallic conduit, power company hardware, power ground wire, or
other metallic objects in a work space that could become energized if a fault
developed. It is a heavy-duty insulated cord equipped with a large clamp on
one end and a smaller clamp on the other end.
Connecting the Temporary Bond
Connect the temporary bond only after the metallic object has first been
tested with the Voltage Detector and found to be free of a voltage potential.
To attach the bond, first connect the small clamp to a reliable ground source;
then connect the large clamp to the metallic object.
Disconnecting the Temporary Bond
When the work is completed, first disconnect the bond’s large clamp from the
metallic object; then disconnect the small clamp from the ground source.
Should a fault develop while the temporary bond is in place, the insulation
may overheat and smoke, at which time you should avoid contact with the
bond.
Temporary bondStorage bag
GroundcordVoltage Detector

8
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide
Storage Bag
The Voltage Detector storage bag holds the Voltage Detector and its
accessories. The bag’s interior is lined with plastic. The bag has a fabric strap
with a metal snap hook and a zipper closure.
Ground Cord
The Voltage Detector ground cord is used only in certain aerial applications
where the user is isolated from ground and near power transmission lines. The
cord is a
25-ft retracting cord with clamps on each end. This cord, along with the
conductive plastic end cap, eliminates induced body voltage to prevent false
hazard indications.
Test Plug
The Voltage Detector test plug is used to verify the lowest voltage (threshold
voltage) at which the Voltage Detector indicates danger. It is an AC-operated
plug that provides a suitable, current-limited, reference voltage to verify
proper operation of the Voltage Detector. It plugs into a standard, ground-
referenced, power outlet. The test plug is current-limited and may be touched
without electrical shock, even while energized. The test plug consumes less
than
30 milliwatts and may be left in an outlet indefinitely if desired.
Periodic Performance Tests
The Voltage Detector should be checked periodically to ensure that it is
working properly and that it retains its protective properties. There are two
primary tests that can be used to verify the integrity of the Voltage Detector: a
self check and a test plug threshold (sensitivity) test.
Self Check
Perform the self check before each use of the Voltage Detector to verify it is
working properly. To perform a self check, do the following:
1 Clean and dry the entire housing. Moisture, dirt, and other foreign
matter reduces the insulating properties of the plastic surface.
2 Examine the housing for cracks.
3 Grasp the handle with your bare hand. Press the trigger and observe the
green LED. If it does not illuminate or is very dim, check the internal
battery and replace if needed. If the green LED still does not illuminate,
do not use the Voltage Detector.

9
Periodic Performance Tests
4 With the trigger pressed, use the free hand to touch both the probe tip
and the check contact (shown in Figure 3). The red LED should flash and
the green LED should go out. If they do not, the Voltage Detector is
malfunctioning.
Note
It may be necessary to wet the fingers that are touching the probe
tip and check contact in order to start the red flashing LED. This is
acceptable and does not indicate a malfunctioning Voltage Detector.
5 Once the red LED starts flashing, remove the free hand while continuing
to press the trigger. The red LED should continue to flash as long as the
trigger is pressed. If it does not, the Voltage Detector is malfunctioning.
After passing the self check, the Voltage Detector may be used to perform a
voltage test. If it fails, contact Fluke Networks as described on page 1.
EMU03.EPS
Figure 3. Performing a Self Check

10
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide
Test Plug Threshold Test
While the self check verifies proper operation of most of the circuits, it does
not verify proper sensitivity of the Voltage Detector. Therefore, a test plug
threshold test should be performed to verify proper sensitivity, check the
Voltage Detector’s insulation, or after the Voltage Detector has been
subjected to severe mechanical stress.
This test should be performed at least weekly.
To perform a test plug threshold test, do the following:
1 Plug the test plug into a standard, 3-wire, 110-120 VAC outlet. The test
plug provides the proper reference voltage for the threshold test. (The
test plug draws little current and may be left in the outlet.)
2 Perform a self check (see page 8).
3 Touch the Voltage Detector to the screw head test point on the test plug.
If the Voltage Detector indicates danger (red flashing LED), it passes the
threshold test. If the Voltage Detector does not indicate danger (green
LED is on), it is malfunctioning.
Note
The integrity of the test plug can be verified with an ohmmeter. The
resistance from the test point to either or both of the two prongs
should be 300 K, ±1%. This test should be done each time you
perform a Voltage Detector threshold test. A faulty test plug should
be discarded immediately.
WWarningX
Do not use any Voltage Detector that fails either the self check
or test plug threshold test. Remove the Voltage Detector from
service immediately and contact Fluke Networks as described
on page 1.
Service Center Repair and Verification
Repair and verification of your Voltage Detector are available at any Fluke
Networks authorized service center. See the contact information on page 1.

11
Operation
Operation
To use the Voltage Detector, do the following:
1 Before using the Voltage Detector, always perform a self check (see “Self
Check” on page 8).
2 Remove the black conductive end cap from the probe tip. Be careful not
to unscrew the front and rear housing while removing the cap.
3 Hold the Voltage Detector as shown in Figure 4.
4 Use your bare hand (except when gloves are required) to grasp the rear
housing and your thumb to operate the trigger.
EMU04.EPS
Figure 4. Holding the Voltage Detector

12
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide
AC Hazardous Voltage Testing
No grounding is required except when testing aloft near power transmission
lines (see “Aerial Testing” on page 14).
WWarningX
For AC measurements, do not make contact between the metal
probe tip and exposed bare wire.
The Voltage Detector is designed to detect 60 Hz, AC hazards. At frequencies
below 60 Hz, the Voltage Detector requires higher voltages to trigger a
hazard indication. At frequencies higher than 60 Hz, the Voltage Detector
requires less voltage to trigger.
To test for hazardous AC voltage, do the following:
1 Perform a self check (see “Self Check” on page 8).
Note
Do not connect the ground lead to the Voltage Detector.
2 Press and hold down the trigger while approaching the object to be
tested. The tip must be the closest point to the object under test. If the
red LED flashes, immediately move away from the object. A high voltage
is present and you should not continue the test.
WCaution
When high voltages are present and a hazard indication
appears, move away immediately.
3 If no hazard indication appears while approaching the object, press the
probe tip against the object. It may be necessary to turn the Voltage
Detector from side to side to break through paint or other surface
finishes or corrosion. Ensure that a reliable contact is made.
4 To avoid false indications due to static electrical discharge, release and
repress the trigger while still making contact with the object. Ensure that
a reliable contact is maintained.
5 Still holding the trigger down, remove the Voltage Detector from the
object and observe the LEDs:
 The green LED means a safe condition.
 The red flashing LED means dangerous voltages are present.

13
Operation
DC Hazardous Voltage Testing
The Voltage Detector indicates the presence of DC voltages between 6 VDC
and 1500 VDC. When testing DC voltages, a connection must be established
between the ground terminal of the Voltage Detector (see Figure 1) and a
known earth ground. This connection may be made using a suitable insulated
cord equipped with clamps on each end, such as the temporary bond. At no
time should the ground terminal on the Voltage Detector be loosened. If
there is any doubt as to the continuity of the grounding cord used, test the
cord before it is used to test for hazardous voltages.
To test the continuity of a grounding cord, do the following:
1 Connect one end of the cord to the probe tip of the Voltage Detector. If
you are testing the temporary bond, connect the large clip to the tip.
2 Press and hold the Voltage Detector trigger.
3 Touch the other end of the cord to the Voltage Detector check contact.
The red LED should flash. Do not use the cord for testing if it does not
pass this test.
Note
This test verifies whether this ground cord can be used with the
Voltage Detector. It does not verify the cord’s current-handling
ability for use as a bond.
To test for hazardous DC voltage, do the following:
1 Perform a self check.
2 Perform an AC hazardous voltage test. If the AC hazardous voltage test
indicates no hazardous voltage, proceed. Otherwise, halt testing.
3 Prepare a temporary ground bond, such as the Voltage Detector
temporary bond, and test it as described above.
4 Press the probe tip against the object to be tested and press the trigger. It
may be necessary to turn the tester from side to side to break through
paint or other surface finishes or corrosion. Ensure that a reliable contact
is made.
5 To avoid false indications due to static electrical discharge, release and
repress the switch while still making contact with the object. Ensure that
a reliable contact is maintained.
-continued-

14
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide
6 Still holding the switch down, remove the Voltage Detector from the
object and observe the LEDs:
 The green LED means a safe condition.
 The red flashing LED indicates hazardous voltages. If a hazardous
voltage is present, move away from the object and refer to your
company’s safety procedures.
Aerial Testing
When working aloft in an insulated bucket or on a ladder where you are well
isolated from ground and near power transmission lines, the following
procedure is required to prevent false indications due to the voltage induced
on you.
1 Put on company-required protective equipment, such as a hard hat, eye
protection, etc.
2 Place the conductive plastic probe end cap on the handle (clip end) of the
Voltage Detector. Push on until firmly in place.
3 Perform a self check.
4 Attach one end of the ground cord to a known earth ground. Attach the
other end of the ground cord to the contact knob on the end cap.
5 Ascend to a convenient height to make the voltage test. Do not come in
contact with the suspected hardware, light fixture, or its wiring.
6 Test the suspect object for hazardous voltage as described earlier and
observe the LEDs:
 If after you press the trigger and touch the probe tip to the object,
the green LED remains illuminated and the red LED remains off, you
may proceed with your work after placing a temporary bond (see
“Temporary Bond” on page 7).
 If the red LED flashes, a hazardous condition exists. Descend
immediately and refer to your company’s safety procedures.
Applications
Following are additional instructions and safeguards for more specific
applications. They expand the previous instructions, but do not replace them.

15
Applications
Ground Level
Mobile homes, trailers, metal sheath buildings, ground rods and electrical
machinery all present potential electrical hazards and always require testing.
Before starting any work operation, test the skin and frame (or both frames in
the case of double wide mobile homes).
In some cases, such as when driving a ground rod, you might wear rubber
gloves during the work operation. The final test must be done with the bare
hand holding the Voltage Detector.
If a voltage is detected, the property owner should be notified for corrective
action according to the user’s company procedures. Do not make contact with
the potential hazard until all hazardous voltages are removed and the
Voltage Detector indicates a safe condition.
Telephone Cable Sheath
When sheath continuity is to be interrupted for the purpose of locating plant,
locating faults, or making splices, it is necessary to test the sheath with the
Voltage Detector prior to and after opening it.
Damaged Cable Closure
If a telephone, CATV, or power pedestal closure (all closures used in joint-
buried plant) has been damaged or disturbed, (for example, knocked over or
hit by a car) or a trouble condition involving power is suspected, contact the
power company first. Once the power company completes its work, the
pedestal should be tested before any bodily contact is made. However, work
should not be done on telephone or CATV plant until the power company has
completed repairs.
If the Voltage Detector indicates a safe condition, remove the cover of the
closure and visually inspect the cable sheath ground. If the cable sheath
ground is not intact or is loose, test the cable sheath with the Voltage
Detector before performing maintenance work. If for any reason it becomes
necessary to open the bonds between telephone facilities and power or across
cable sheath openings, a temporary bond strap must be placed before the
bond is opened. If the temporary bond cannot be placed due to physical
conditions, consult with the power company representative. It may be
necessary to de-energize the power briefly for repair operations. When
temporary or permanent bonds are placed or removed, insulating gloves and
eye protection must be worn.
WWarningX
Electrical continuity of all bonds, including cable shield bonds in
closure or at splice locations, must be preserved during the
repair process. Until the permanent bond is installed, maintain
continuity using a temporary bond strap.

16
C9970 Voltage Detector
Users Guide
Base of Pole: Telephone Plant Repairs
Examine the pole for potential electrical hazards such as a vertical power
ground wire, vertical metallic power conduit, street light fixture, power
company primary disconnect hardware, or other foreign metal objects. Also,
observe the pole and adjacent spans for such hazards as improper clearance
from power conductors or equipment, dangling power wires, inadequate
clearance on pole-to-pole guys from power wires or energized attachment,
etc. If none of these is present, the pole may be climbed providing no other
hazard is evident.
If a vertical power ground wire is present, make a voltage test of the wire
before climbing or working on the pole. If a vertical metallic power conduit or
other power company hardware extends to the base of the pole, make a
voltage test before climbing or working on the pole. If the ground wire is
broken, test the portion going up the pole unless the break exists above the
telephone space. Do not attempt to test a broken ground wire or fixture in
the power company’s space (40 inches or more above the highest telephone
attachment). Refer to your company’s safety procedures.
If the Voltage Detector does not indicate a hazardous voltage, poles carrying
vertical power ground wires may be climbed. Care should be taken to avoid
simultaneous contact between power ground wires and telephone cable or
guys since a small voltage may be present. This is recommended to avoid the
possibility of a shock that might cause a fall from the pole.
If an ungrounded street light fixture is less than 40 inches above or below
telephone attachments and is on a pole not carrying a telephone cable or a
bare vertical power ground wire, wear insulating gloves. Since it is not
possible to place a temporary bond to an effective ground, you should avoid
contact with the fixture.
WWarningX
Do not make contact with supply wires going to the fixture.
Loose Plant
In general, you should avoid unsecured objects, dangling wires, etc., which
would tend to move if probed. Breaking through corrosion is difficult in such
cases and there is a danger that the object might suddenly swing around and
hit you.
Temporary Bond
The temporary bond is used to temporarily ground a fixture, conduit, or bare
vertical ground wire which has been tested for and found to be free from a
voltage potential while working aloft. Should a fault develop, the temporary
bond will provide a direct path to ground for the foreign potential. The