The finger test won't help, you need to use the two arm test from the wires
to the nearest grounded thing, but I'd recommend something other than your
body parts



"# Fred #" wrote in message
...
I just helped someone to replace an overhead light fixture in an old house
with existing K&T wiring without wire termination ID. I referenced the
light fixture terminal polarities to the nearest K&T ungrounded outlet but
realized if that outlet is wired wrong so will my light installation. I
have a non contact volt sensor but it was not working and also I was
tempted to give the finger test but I'm getting old and my heart may not
take the kick. I guess I should have referenced the polarities to a cold
water pipe. What would you do?