Safety Precautions for All Basic Switches
For the individual precautions for a Switch, refer to the precautions in the section for that Switch.
Always observe the following cautions to ensure safety.
Before mounting, dismounting, wiring, or inspecting a switch, be sure to turn OFF the power supply to the switch, otherwise an electric shock may be received or the switch may burn.
Do not perform wiring when power is being supplied to a switch. Also, do not touch any of the charged terminals when power is being supplied. Otherwise, electric shock may be received.
Follow the instructions provided in Correct Use for all wiring and soldering work. Using a switch with improper wiring or soldering may result in abnormal heating when power is supplied, possibly resulting in burning.
Select suitable switch ratings after confirming contact load. If the contact load is excessive for the contacts, the contacts may weld or shift, possibly resulting in short-circuits or burning when power is supplied.
Some types of load have a large difference between steady-state current and inrush current, as shown in the following diagram. Select a switch with ratings suitable for the type of load. The higher the inrush current in the closed circuit is, the more the contact abrasion or shift there will be. Consequently, contact welding or shifting may occur, possibly resulting in short-circuits or burning.
Types of Load vs. Inrush Current
Do not use switches in atmospheres containing combustible or explosive gases. Arc or heat generated by switching may cause fires or explosions.
Shock on Individual Switches
Do not drop or disassemble switches. Not only will characteristics be jeopardized, but also damage, electric shock, or burning may result.
The durability of a switch greatly varies with switching conditions. Before using a switch, be sure to test the switch under actual conditions in the actual application and to use the switch within the switching operations causing no problem. If a deteriorated switch is used continuously, insulation failures, contact welding, contact failures, switch damage, or switch burnout may result.