On Sep 7, 8:43*pm, Kevin Ricks wrote:
Ron wrote:
I can't find the circuit breakers for any of the upstair bedrooms in
this old, 1908 built house. Would it be reasonably safe to replace a
light switch wearing rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes if it comes
down to having nno other options?

Ron

Chances are if you attempt to replace it hot, you will need to find that
breaker anyway to turn the circuit back on when you short something.

Look for a sub panel in a closet or behind an appliance, or in an attic,
behind a picture etc.

I wouldn't use rubber gloves as sharp wire ends or other metal parts can
easily puncture through and the extra perspiration inside the gloves
would seen to me to be worse than no gloves at all.
I would use leather gloves.

Kevin

OP-

As some posters have said, you really need to know where the circuit
breakers (or fuses) are.

I change switches & receptacles all the time without shutting off the
power.

Less than 10% of the time, I get a "nip" (slight shock).
Seldom do I short to something & blow the circuit breaker.

But I have years experience changing switches & receptacles "hot" and
I figure the risk (for me) is acceptably low.

YEARS ago I was shown the process & practice by more than one
electrician.
I think it's safe (for me) but I'm not sure I'd recommend it to a
rookie without demonstrating safer practice.

In my experience, the danger & possibility of injury from a short
during this process is much greater than a simple shock.

Over the years I have "welded" a few screw drivers (actually only
three) and imo the danger of flying molten metal is WAY more serious
than getting a minor shock. Plus the "arc" caused by a short will
leave you seeing spots for a while.

Dry & clean leather gloves are a better bet than rubber gloves and
safety glasses would be a good idea as well.

I watched an electrician work on a service entrance "hot"; he used
new, dry, clean leather gloves, a wooden ladder and safety glasses.

cheers
Bob