There is a non profit thrift store in my area which sells most anything that someone might bring in. They usually test electrical appliances and plug connected things like refrigerators and washing machines before putting them out for sale. They would like to install 240 volt outlets for testing dryers and ranges. The manager has ask me for my opinion on doing this. I have some concerns about the volunteers and helpers hooking up and un hooking high-current, high voltage AC devices, even if all are cord connected. I know that a safety switch could be installed between the power source and outlet(s) but this alone would not insure that the switch would be used.
Please understand that some of the employees have low levels of education or are mentally challenged and should not be messing with this stuff, but there is no way to currently insure that "rules" will be properly followed. Also please understand that someone might drive up and donate a range or dryer which has a short or other defect.
For these reasons, I believe that the store should only sell these 240 volt items "as is" and without any warrentee. I don't think some employees should even be testing desk lamps or tv sets! I think that the outlets used to test 120 volt things should at least be upgraded to GFIC and perhaps have disconnect switches also. Perhaps the test outlets should be locked out at all times unless the manager unlocks them. This way the testing of electrical equipment would be limited to specific employees who are capable of following the proper procedures.
Any feedback would be appreciated!
Please understand that some of the employees have low levels of education or are mentally challenged and should not be messing with this stuff, but there is no way to currently insure that "rules" will be properly followed. Also please understand that someone might drive up and donate a range or dryer which has a short or other defect.
For these reasons, I believe that the store should only sell these 240 volt items "as is" and without any warrentee. I don't think some employees should even be testing desk lamps or tv sets! I think that the outlets used to test 120 volt things should at least be upgraded to GFIC and perhaps have disconnect switches also. Perhaps the test outlets should be locked out at all times unless the manager unlocks them. This way the testing of electrical equipment would be limited to specific employees who are capable of following the proper procedures.
Any feedback would be appreciated!