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Jeff Parisse's Safety Tips
I've followed these rules for over ten years and they've never let me down...
1. Buddy System - I NEVER coil alone. There is safety in numbers.
2. Remote Control - I use a remote control with a separate d.c. power supply to control two (hot
& neutral) heavily over rated relays. Control voltage lines are run with 2 conductor cable plus
ground shield. A key switch and indicator serve as a safety and a momentary contact "on" switch
acts as a "deadman".
3. Master Power - I never use master power. I UNPLUG the power unit. When plugged in, both the
coil and the remote have bright red lamps indicating that the aforementioned relays are in a
power ready mode. Nobody gets near the coil when the red lights are on.
4. Containment - Rotary spark gaps are always fully enclosed and capacitors are always in vessels
that contain and/or direct the effects of an explosive failure.
5. Discharge - To discharge caps I use an auto jumper cable connected to a metal spike fastened
to the end of a five foot wooden pole.
6. Hand in Pocket - An old trick could save your life: Keep one arm behind your back when making
primary adjustments.
7. Procedure - All clear, plug in, key switch on, coil on, 30 seconds or less, coil off, key
switch off, plug out, all safe.
Jeff W. Parisse
Comments? Additions?