The most INFREQUENTLY asked question about oscilloscopes is:
Are there any risks of personal injury using an oscilloscope?
The answer is.....YES!
Although the risks are cumulative by ignoring key safety factors, the risks diminish with appropriate considerations and actions PRIOR to using your instrument.
Please stay mindful of safety basics.
Imagine what could go wrong in your test area. Like defensive driving, the best reactions are those that prevent accidents BEFORE they occur. Take a safety leadership position unless its very clear someone else has and own the safety responsibility. Eye protection for everyone if appropriate. Review what will and won't happen with everyone. Ask for questions and make sure the group is on the same page before applying power.
What is the safety record in the area you are working?
What are the instruments connections to power and to what is going to be measured?
What are the voltage and current nodes you are attempting to measure as well as the ones in their vicinity that might include hazardous levels or RF, High Voltage, etc.?
What is the physical stability of the instrument (instrument stacks can tip, cables can trip, wet floors can slip)?
How many people in the test area and who is responsible for their safety?
What are the suggested actions in the event of an accident or injury and who gets contacted first?
Think Safety! Be Safe!