EMB ERJ 145 ER/LR
Maintenance Airframe; Maintenance Powerplant
Training / Qualification; Situational Awareness; Distraction
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Maintenance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Human Factors
I was working a panel backlighting MEL. All three instrument panels affected drew power through a common fuse; F0401. As the dimming controller had already been changed; I suspected the fuse. In order to get access to the fuse; a number of instrument panels must be removed -- including the Number 2 fire handle panel on the flight deck. Fuse F0401 was indeed blown; and upon installing a new fuse from stock; the panels' backlighting worked again. When I reinstalled the fire handle panel; I installed it upside-down in its mount and failed to notice. I did not double-check my work upon completion; and no other mechanics involved in work on the aircraft noticed the improper orientation. In addition; the aircraft made 3 legs before the problem was reported. Operation of the fire handle would not have been affected with this orientation.More cockpit familiarization training for mechanics is required; as well as a company culture of having other technicians check work performed.
Maintenance Technician reported installing cockpit panel upside down without noticing.