Being in the business for over 40 years, I know the answer but I wanted to get some thoughts/respnses to my discussion with a coworker. The statement was made to the effect that a qualified person could carry a 9 volt battery with them and when it came time to verify the integrity of the voltage testing device, the battery could be used. The thought being when LOTO is being performed and the last steps would be to verify the device integrity, test for zero energy and then verify the device integrity again without subjecting the worker to voltages over 50 volts.

Source used for verification needs to be on the same setting as what you are checking. If you have to switch from AC to DC voltage (Like on a fluke) then you are not validating the operation of the meter.

What about an analog multimeter with ranges?

Same thing, must be on same scale.

I agree Zog. I would add that OSHA only requires verification of the device if the system is >600V.


1910.333(b)(2)(iv)(B)

Viper57, you are correct about 1910 but 70E Article 110.4(A)(5) states 50 volts or more.

I agree. Must be on the same scale if analog meter and same type with digital multimeter. Basically, if you reposition a switch or anything else on the meter you have to redo the test.

"I agree. Must be on the same scale if analog meter and same type with digital multimeter. Basically, if you reposition a switch or anything else on the meter you have to redo the test."
OK so what about an autoranging meter.

But more seriously, Our hotstick voltmeters are packlaged with a little battery powered inverter that genereates MV levels for the live dead live test. But a battery by itself???

Isn't there an allowance to use a second working meter? This may not answer the question but if a team is working together and they each have a working meter then the absence of voltage can be verified. I think its in 70E but I don't have it with me to check.

The purpose of the live dead live is to validate the meter is set up right and working properly to verfiy zero energy, there's no short cut to do that properly that does not increase risk.

Why not test it on a 120 volt receptacle in the room? Then you are measuring AC.. Test before and after you verify your isolation...