Fire And Rescue AC30

$325.00$450.00

AUD

Designed for emergency rescue, linesmen, tree surgeons, electricians and trained personnel for the determination of “Live and Dead” situations in many fields for safety purposes and life threatening situations.

Includes:
  • Fire and Rescue AC30 Non-contact AC Tester
  • Sunrise Attachment Optional
  • Protection Pouch

AC30 Non-contact AC Voltage Tester

G.L McGavin have been manufacturing High and Low voltage testers since 1975. The new G.L McGavin Digital hand held Proximity Tester AC30 is designed for Electricians, Technicians and the Fire & Rescue departments. For electricians it can be used for picking up live wires behind walls, identifying live cables and tracing live cable runs. For the Fire and Rescue it is used for the safety of the rescue personnel in situations where live voltage can be present impeding rescue operations. Because it is a Digital device it can be programmed to suit any application.

AC30 operation

When the unit is activated using the ON switch the unit will self test automatically ensuring the unit is in working order. The Self Test button is located on the front face of the tester. This is a full function test of all components of the unit testing:

  • Audio indicator
  • Visual indicator
  • Transistor circuit verification

The self test button is recommended to be used at regular intervals during the working day. In the event the tester fails please refer to (Service and trouble shooting).

The Self Test feature is designed as an independent circuit, apart from the detection circuit. This Self Test circuit produces an AC signal that the detection circuit can pick up, as it would pick up an outside signal source. This allows confidence that the AC30 Non-contact AC Voltage Tester is working correctly.

AC30 Unit Operation

  1. Push the RED ON button once, a GREEN LED power light will immediately illuminate, Note: The Unit will self test on start up all LED’s will illuminate and the Buzzer will sound. Follow the instructions below for the AC30 Operation.
  2. The unit will start in the highest sensitivity setting on start up, indicated by a GREEN LED.
  3. Check the low battery indicator is not RED and continue with the operation. If the RED LED illuminates, replace battery before use with 4 * AAA Alkaline or Lithium Batteries.
  4. Press the self test button to check the unit is operating correctly. A tone will be heard and LED’s will flash indicating a healthy circuit. Your personal electrical safety device is now ready to use.
  5. It is recommended that regular checks using the self test function, be used during the working period, to ensure optimal performance.
  6. The unit can be held in the hand, on a helmet, on your shoulder or in the nylon pocket pouch. By placing in the belt pouch, the detection distance is reduced and will only detect on the side of the body the detector is located.
  7. Always hold the AC30 with your thumb placed on the indicated position with your arm outstretched. This allows maximum detection distance. The closer the unit is to the trunk of the body the lower the detection distance.
    To detect a voltage source at close range two to three meters at voltages only over 7,000 volts to ground, place your hand around the middle of the tester not covering the end marked PICKUP ZONE and approach known voltage source with extreme care to determine live components.
  8. Always allow the pickup zone Label to be placed on the side of the body, that is most likely to be placed in harms way.
  9. When an electric field is detected by your tester, an array of RED LED’s located at the top of the unit, will light up from left to right, indicating the detection range from the AC voltage source.( One RED LED further away from voltage source, six RED LED’s closer to the voltage source). (These setting can be changed on request)
  10. If this occurs retrace your steps in a slow and calm manner until the alert is diminished. (You are now in a safe area again).
  11. To determine the exact location of the voltage source place the unit on the Less Sensitive setting and approach with care, you can now identify live components.
  12. When voltage has been officially disconnected by the supply authority, retest the area again by placing the unit on the more sensitive setting and holding with your thumb as indicated with your arm out stretched, approach the test area again.
  13. This unit can detect AC voltages from up to 20m away on high voltage supply lines. When approaching these lines personal protective insulation equipment gloves, shoes must be worn at all times.
  14. To Turn of the tester Push and hold the RED ON/OFF button for 2 Seconds.

Part Identification

Battery Replacement

The Battery is located on the rear of the tester and requires 4 *AAA 1.5 volt Alkaline or Lithium Batteries. The Battery compartment located on the back of the unit requires a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the four screws holding the battery cover.

BATTERY REPLACEMENT

Ensure the battery is fitted the correct way placing the positive terminal as indicated on the inside base of battery compartment.

Battery-Compartment-1-

To place the battery lid back into place a Phillips head or star screwdriver is required. Insure the o-ring is fitted in the grove as shown above. Using Two Short Screws (M2*5mm) on the top two holes and two Long Screws (M2*8mm) on the Bottom two holes. Screw until firm do not over tighten.

Sensitivity Switch

This switch allows changes to the sensitivity of the AC30.

When the GREEN Indicator is ON the unit is set to the highest sensitivity setting, It is expected to detect 7,000 volts to ground outdoors 15 meters away and detect 240 volts 2-3 meters away.

When the RED Indicator is ON the unit is set to the lowest sensitivity setting It is expected to detect 7,000 volts to ground 5 meters outside and detect 110 volts inside at 250 mm away from an active GPO. (These Setting can be changed on request)

Self Testing Feature

When the unit is activated using the ON switch the unit will self test automatically ensuring the unit is in working order.

The Self Test button is located on the front face of the tester. This is a full function test of all components of the unit testing:

  • Audio indicator
  • Visual indicator
  • Transistor circuit verification

 

The self test button is recommended to be used at regular intervals during the working day. In the event the tester fails please refer to (Service and trouble shooting).

The Self Test feature is designed as an independent circuit, apart from the detection circuit. This Self Test circuit produces an AC signal that the detection circuit can pick up, as it would pick up an outside signal source. This allows confidence The Rescue FR30 is working correctly.

AC30 Specifications

Voltage sensing range20 volts AC to 500 K volts AC
Light sourceHigh intensity LED
Sound SourcePiezo 4000KHz 90 dB @ 10cm (3.937’)
Operating temperature-20 to 65˚C (14 to 149°F)
IP ratingIP 66 (Testing not Completed)
Weight (no Batteries)140g (4.93 oz)
DimensionsL 40 mm (5.51’) x W 73 mm (2.87’) x H 23 mm (0.9’)
Battery4* AAA Alkaline / Lithium
Battery life (AAA Alkaline)ON (no alarm) 30+ Hours
ON (alarm on) 8+ Hours
OFF 3 Months
Battery life (AAA Lithium)ON (no alarm) 40+ Hours
ON (alarm on) 10+ Hours
OFF 3 Months
Shock ProofRubber mount around case
Self testIndependent Built in
Belt clip (option)Attached to rear of case (Customer Request)
Range detectionLED Indication Weak Signal to Strong signal.
Voltage rangeTwo Settings Less sensitive and More sensitive.
Large buttons15mmØ for Glove operations
Secure battery housing(fours crews) Tool Access
Custom coloursOn Customer Request
Custom decalsOn Customer Request

These values are estimates within 90% for prototype specs.

FR30-Case-Yellow-Logo

Fire & Rescue Vehicle Accidents

In the event a vehicle is the cause of damage to a power pole or any emergency situations, the result may bring down the attached lines. These lines are active and the surrounding area can be energised. A HAZARD AREA must be established until electrical authorities disconnect power.

  1. When arriving at the incident, turn on the GLM MINI to the high sensitivity setting.
  2. Press and hold the self test button and an audible repeating tone will be heard indicating a healthy unit.
  3. Place thumb and hand as indicated on unit with arm outstretched as the position of your hand and body determines the sensitivity of the unit. In this position maximum sensitivity is achieved.
  4. Wave the unit from side to side in the direction of the incidence.
  5. If the RED indicator and alarm sounds a voltage is detected.
    Note: As unit may detect power lines above in order to determine the location of the voltage source place the unit on the low setting and move to detect if power line is on the ground or above. By placing your hand in the middle of the unit not covering the front test area label, sensitivity is decreased providing an accurate location of voltage source.
  6. When voltage is detected from fallen power lines, contact supply authority immediately and erect a hazard area around scene to protect service officers and the general public.
  7. On notification from supply authority that power has been isolated retest the area again placing the unit on high with thumb on bottom of unit and follow the previous steps.

WARNING!!

If power lines are broken the two halves of the line are still energised and a safe distance must still be maintained from both sections or electrocution could occur.

Always assume the conductor is alive until proven de-energised.

Do not touch wire or car as you could experience ground potential (shock).

Commercial & Residential Properties

On the arrival at a structure fire, identification of power lines and connection to property must be located and identified; procedures for active live power isolation and disconnection should be followed.

  1. When arriving at the incident, turn on the GLM MINI to the high sensitivity setting.
  2. Press and hold the self test button and an audible repeating tone will be heard indicating a healthy unit.
  3. Place thumb and hand as indicated on unit with arm outstretched as the position of your hand and body determines the sensitivity of the unit. In this position maximum sensitivity is achieved.
  4. Identify the main power supply line on the street and access point to the property checking for damage to these lines and clearance levels.
  5. With arm outstretched hold the detector over your head and trace power from street supply to property connection.
  6. If the RED LED indicates and alarm sounds a voltage is detected.
  7. Isolation protocol should now be followed. Contact the local supply authority for disconnection of power supply.
  8. On notification from supply authority that the power has been isolated retest the area again placing the unit on high with thumb on bottom of unit and follow the above steps

When circumstances require access to the property before power has been disconnected use the GLM MINI to determine live power areas. Examples of the areas are:

Placing a metal ladder against the metal gutter

  • Use procedures above for the activation of the GLM MINI.
  • As we know the power to the property is active, place the unit on high and test against conductive components.
  • If voltage detected switch to low setting on the unit and aim at conductive components moving closer. When within 100mm and no AC voltage is detected, the ladder and gutter are not active.
  • The ladder may be insulated from the ground by rubber feet and may not show active. By placing a hand on the ladder a circuit is made to ground through you resulting in electrocution.
  • It is highly recommended to not attach metal items to exterior of property until supply to property has been disconnected.

Upon entering a property

  • Use above procedures for the activation of the GLM MINI.
  • Enter the property holding the GLM MINI with thumb on indicated area and arm outstretched and the unit set on the high setting, if property disconnected no signal should be detected.
  • If voltage detected and the property disconnected by supply authority place the unit on the low setting and move around room to determine where voltage is located.
  • Have trained personnel isolate or disconnect source.

 

NOTE: Because the property is still live the high setting on the GLM MINI may be detecting other voltage sources such as wires in the roof or walls or the adjacent property. To overcome this use the low setting on the detector and more accurate location of AC voltage sources can be determined. By placing your hand in the middle of the unit not covering the front test area label, sensitivity is decreased providing an accurate location of voltage.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Important Safety Concern

The voltage to a property may be officially disconnected by supply authority. This may not always be the case as faults in the electrical network may cause residual voltages to be carried in water pipes and neutral link connections. Suspect locations such as those involving drugs may be acquiring power from neighbouring locations or generator units these supplies may not be disconnected. These voltages may be low but the current high. Use the GLM MINI to verify voltage at all instances.

Switch Yards & Transformers

  1. In the incidences above contact the supply authority immediately for disconnection and isolation procedures.
  2. When arriving at the incidence, turn on the GLM MINI to the high sensitivity setting.
  3. Press and hold the self test button and an audible repeating tone will be heard indicating a healthy unit.
  4. Place thumb and hand as indicated on unit with arm outstretched as the position of your hand and body determines the sensitivity of the unit. In this position maximum sensitivity is achieved.
  5. Test the area surrounding the switch yard or transformer to detect fallen lines and leaking oil.Note: oil is a conductor stay clear.
  6. If the RED indicator and alarm sounds a voltage is detected.
  7. Isolation protocol should now be followed.
  8. On notification from supply authority power has been isolated retest the area again placing the unit on high with thumb on bottom of unit and follow the above steps.

Identification of underground (URD) test points

Structures such as these contain voltage sources and can be detected by the GLM MINI using the above procedures.

URD-test-points-horiz
Examples of URD test point housings.

Storm Damage

In all natural disasters electricity is a major concern, as fallen power lines and water make a dangerous mix. The GLM MINI can be used in all of these situations.

The GLM MINI will not detect submerged power cables as water decreases the electromagnetic field generated.

  1. When arriving at the incident, turn on the GLM MINI to the high sensitivity setting.
  2. Press and hold the self test button and an audible repeating tone will be heard indicating a healthy unit.
  3. Place thumb and hand as indicated on unit with arm outstretched as the position of your hand and body determines the sensitivity of the unit. In this position maximum sensitivity is achieved.
  4. Locate the area to be worked in and conduct a hazard assessment of the area. Wave the unit from side to side to identify the direction of voltage source. This is the area to isolate and contact the supply authority for disconnection. Have trained personnel isolate or disconnect source.
  5. To detect a voltage source at close range, two to three metres at voltages only over 7,000 volts. Place your hand around the middle of the tester not covering the end marked TEST AREA and approach known voltage source with extreme care to determine live components.
  6. On notification from supply authority power has been isolated retest the area again placing the unit on high with thumb on bottom of unit and follow the above steps.

In all emergency situations, always assume line is energised on initial test. Never assume de-energised lines will remain in that state.