Abstract :
Following concerns about the safety of old oil-filled circuit breakers with dependent manual initiation (DMI) operating mechanisms, research carried out for the UK Health and Safety Executive showed that under certain operating conditions, flame and other emissions were produced which could be a serious hazard to operators. It is now generally recognised by industry and the profession that, where old oil-filled switchgear remains in service, action is required to ensure risks arising from the use of such equipment are properly identified, controlled and managed.