Bushing and Cable Entrance Inspection (IEEE 386)

Inspects medium-voltage cable entrances and apparatus bushings to verify IEEE 386 interface compatibility, proper seating, secure installation, and visible condition before energization.

Inspection Details

• Asset or equipment identifier recorded
  Record the equipment nameplate ID, location, or asset tag for the bushing/cable entrance being inspected.
• Inspection purpose documented
  Select the reason for inspection.
• Inspector name and date recorded
  Capture the date and time of the inspection.
• Reference work order or permit number
  Enter the work order, permit, or job number associated with the inspection.
• Inspection area de-energized or otherwise made safe
  Confirm the equipment was placed in a safe condition before inspection, consistent with site LOTO procedures and OSHA 1910.147 where applicable.

IEEE 386 Interface Compatibility

• Cable entrance and apparatus bushing are IEEE 386 compatible
  Verify the installed interface matches IEEE 386 separable connector dimensions and mating requirements for the application.
• Mating cable accessory is the correct type for the bushing interface
  Confirm the field cable accessory, elbow, or connector is compatible with the installed bushing and voltage class.
• Voltage class and connector rating match the equipment nameplate
  Verify the cable accessory and bushing ratings match the equipment voltage class and system application.
• Interface parts show no evidence of mixed or mismatched components
  Check for non-matching brands, adapters, or improvised parts that could compromise fit, sealing, or electrical performance.

Seating, Fit, and Mechanical Condition

• Bushing or cable entrance is fully seated
  Verify the connector is fully engaged and seated with no visible gap, tilt, or partial insertion.
• Retaining hardware or locking features are installed and secure
  Confirm any retaining clips, locking rings, or hardware are present, properly installed, and secure.
• No cracks, chips, deformation, or burn marks visible
  Inspect the bushing, cable entrance, and insulating surfaces for physical damage or heat-related deterioration.
• Stress relief and cable bend radius appear acceptable
  Verify the cable is not under excessive mechanical strain and is routed without sharp bends or tension at the entrance.

Cleanliness, Sealing, and Environmental Condition

• Insulating surfaces are clean and free of contamination
  Check for dirt, moisture, tracking, corrosion, grease, or other contamination on exposed insulating surfaces.
• Seals, gaskets, and boots are intact
  Confirm weather seals, boots, and gaskets are present, undamaged, and properly positioned to maintain environmental protection.
• No evidence of moisture ingress or corrosion at the interface
  Inspect for water intrusion, rust, oxidation, or other signs of environmental compromise.

Grounding, Labeling, and Final Verification

• Grounding and bonding connections are present and secure where applicable
  Verify grounding or bonding conductors, shields, or associated hardware are installed and secure per site design.
• Equipment and cable identifiers are legible and match the installation
  Confirm labels, phase markings, and circuit identifiers are present and readable.
• No abnormal condition requiring immediate corrective action
  Record whether any deficiency, non-conformance, or safety concern was observed that would prevent safe operation or energization.
• Inspector signature
  Sign to confirm the inspection findings are accurate and complete.