Earth Continuity Testing

[normanton]

As part of my new job, we are required to test existing DC Power Racks for Telecoms. We are told to carry out a earth continuity test, then a IR test, then a ELI test.
I may be getting a little complacent the older I get, but surely Earth Continuity is slightly OTT?
I mean, we're proving an earth when carrying out a ELI test are we not?
I know parallel paths can affect readings etc, but nevertheless I feel its too much. I'd like to hear your thoughts please?
L

 

[Risteard]

Moreover dead continuity testing won't necessarily remove parallel paths.

 

[Bobster]

Of course it's necessary, and you've explained why in your own post.

It's just an R2 test an it takes a matter of min with a wander lead.

 

[snowhead]

Is this what the customer has specified?

I'm sure they will have lost expensive electronic equipment to people not following their procedures.

 

[buzzlightyear]

How the hell can you do ir test when their is telecom equipment or im missing some thing .

 

[snowhead]

Presumably the mains side only of the DC power supply racks.

It was 48volt lead acid batteries when I worked for the GPO, none of this electronic stuff.

 

[davesparks]

How the hell can you do ir test when their is telecom equipment or im missing some thing .

The same way we do it for any other power wiring, disconnect the loads or test L and N together (or +ve and - ve in this case) to earth.
The only real difference will be the lower test voltage as its 48Vdc so I'd guess testing at 100V.

 

[buzzlightyear]

The same way we do it for any other power wiring, disconnect the loads or test L and N together (or +ve and - ve in this case) to earth.
The only real difference will be the lower test voltage as its 48Vdc so I'd guess testing at 100V.

so what if you the op miss some thing ,ops fried .

 

[davesparks]

so what if you the op miss some thing ,ops fried .

Yes, but but telecoms gear is likely to be able to handle it and it's going to be harder to miss something in telecoms racks where all of the equipment is one place.
Plus you'd hope there's some kind of plan, permit to work system etc in place to make sure that kin dof accident doesn't happen.