General Motors High-Voltage Technician Levels: UPDATE

Details Posted on 05 December 2023 | Share:

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As electric-only, hybrid, and fuel cell electric vehicles are increasing in sales, they are becoming more commonplace in repair facilities. Along with the unique powertrains that come with these vehicles, also comes unique safety concerns. Regardless of vehicle maker, high-voltage (HV) systems pose a threat of injury or death if not handled properly. Only personnel with the proper training, PPE, tools, equipment, and service information should perform work on the HV systems.

Many OEMs have specific training requirements for different levels of high-voltage technicians. Typically, these levels range from no interaction with any high-voltage part of the vehicle (even after the high-voltage battery is disconnected/isolated), to the ability to work on the vehicle under live conditions at the highest OEM HV education level you can earn. The number of levels in between these two ends varies by OEM. Always check the OEM requirements before attempting to disable an HV system. Let’s see what General Motors (GM) has to say.

Per GM vehicle-specific service information found within the HV disable procedure: "Danger: Ensure all High Voltage safety procedures are followed. You must have the appropriate level of up-to-date high voltage training and certification combined with Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) to continue. Review the procedure steps to ensure you have the proper qualifications. You must stop if not properly qualified. Failure to follow the procedure exactly as written may result in serious injury or death."

GM does not currently specify technician training levels and requirements for performing certain procedures.

Understanding high-voltage safety, including OEM-specific high-voltage technician levels, will help ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:

• Hybrid And Electric Vehicle Article Hotspot
• Locating OEM-Approved HV Tools: General Motors
• OEM High-Voltage Technician Levels
• Step-By-Step: Accessing General Motors Repair Information

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