Safety Equipment to Use After Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Training
We’re seeing more and more hybrids and electric vehicles on the roads. As a result, there’s a need for more service technicians to maintain and repair them. In most cases, safety involves using your common sense and erring on the side of caution, but when it comes to high-voltage electrical systems in vehicles, safety looks a little bit different–especially when it comes to the equipment we need to protect ourselves adequately.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a hybrid and electrical mechanic, read on to learn all about the personal protective equipment you’ll need to stay safe after training.
Wear Electrical Safety Gloves Around All High Voltage Components
Ordinary latex gloves simply aren’t thick enough to protect you from shock hazards. That’s why most EV manufacturers recommend that you wear insulated rubber gloves when working around anything high voltage, including vehicle batteries.
These rubber gloves are to be worn over cotton under gloves which are meant to improve comfort and prevent painful chafing and reduce sweating. Cotton gloves are particularly comfortable on hot, humid days. Over your rubber-insulating gloves, you should wear leather overgloves which protect you from electrical arcing. This occurs when electrical energy jumps from one connection to another. Electrical arcing causes temperatures as high as 19,000 degrees celsius and causes significant fire hazards. That’s why it’s crucial not to forget your gloves when working after hybrid and electrical mechanic training!
Protect Your Eyes With a Face Shield After Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Training
When you work with high-voltage parts as a hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic, you’ll need to wear a face shield to protect your eyes and face from severe injury due to arc flashing. Face Shields also protect from flying debris, impact from fallen objects, glare, and chemical splashes. Your face shield should provide full chin coverage, complete visibility, and a secure fit. Arc flash protection hoods are a great alternative to visor-style face shields since they provide protection for the neck, face, eyes, and chin while still providing a 180-degree field of vision.
Prevent Electric Shock With Dielectric Safety Boots
When you work with a live electric source, it’s essential to wear boots that provide adequate protection from shock hazards. Dielectric boots are worn over your existing footwear, making them rather convenient as you don’t have to change. They have vulcanized rubber soles, and a steel-toed cap, they’re waterproof and slip resistant.
Your hybrid and electrical mechanic courses will teach you everything there is to know about the burgeoning electric vehicle industry, including future technologies we can expect to see emerge, how to use personal protective equipment properly, and other safety considerations. Now is the perfect time to get the training you need to enter this exciting career path.
Are you ready to enroll in a hybrid and electrical mechanic course?
Contact ATC Montreal for more information!
