[jshorva65]

Flyback-type post-war hv supplies are significantly less dangerous than their 60-hz pre-war counterparts and probably would have resulted in a wiser but angry cat if she had gotten her nose into the hv. Nike has certainly learned a lesson and typically avoids open tv sets like she avoids our dog (50 pounds of playfulness). I don't allow the dog in the basement because she seems to thinks it's "outside" and I'm tired of cleaning up messes. The cat lives down there, though, to minimize her effect on my gf's granddaughter's allergies. Getting back to the safety topic, the 60hz B+ supplies in tube sets are more hazardous than 15khz hv supplies, although not usually deadly like 60hz hv supplies. I was once knocked to the floor while trying to resolder +325V screen grid connection in a large (unplugged) PA amplifier. Discharge those electrolytics before poking around in the circuitry for any reason!!! It also bears mentioning that the hv flter condensers in pre-war sets are larger and pack a more hazardous zap than their 500pF post-war counterparts. Remember to discharge them before working on the set's circuitry. I use a test probe and wire with 30kV rated insulation, a 2K wirewound series resistor and a clip to the chassis at the other end. I tap each point twice and then measure the voltage to be sure there are no surprises waiting for me. It takes a little extra time, but it's easier than picking myself up off the floor. Use insulated tools during alignment, close hv cage covers and access the adjustments inside through the access holes.

Use caution when reaching inside the cabinet during alignment. Brushing against a tube will cause a nasty burn. I keep a product designed to treat sunburn in my First Aid kit.

Also, be very careful when handling picture tubes. Tubes larger than 8" are especially hazardous. Never handle a CRT without first discharging the capacitor that is formed by the Aquadag coatings. The shock from the residual hv is not usually dangerous in itself, but if it results in the tube being dropped it could lead to a dangerous implosion of the tube's glass envelope. I remember reading a news article in July of 1986 about a woman from Texas who died as a result of cuts from a picture tube implosion after picking up a tv that had been dropped. Never strike or scratch a picture tube, never use metal tools or abrasives when cleaning one. In general, handle all CRT's and any other glassware with caution. It is not a good idea to be fearful, just have a healthy respect for the fact that the glass is supporting several hundred pounds of pressure from the atmosphere and don't appy any more pressure than you would apply when handling a large window pane.

CRT's and other vacuum tubes may contain hazardous substances. Remember that these sets were built before the hazards of materials like Asbestos and Beryllium were fully known. Clean all cuts thoroughly and seek medical attention. A First Aid kit is highly recommended. Also, do not eat, drink or smoke at the workbench, wash your hands thoroughly before going back to other activities. Lead poisoning is a common occupational hazard of the electronics industry.

Fire is a very real possibility. A fire estinguisher with an A/B/C rating is highly recommended and will safely extinguish small fires from flammable solids (A), flammable liquids (B) and electrical equipment (C). Most hardware stores and department store hardware departments carry extinguishers.

Common sense, good knowledge of workplace safety and proper preparation are our best defenses. Keep rescuing those old sets, but remember to work safely.