FLASH! As seen in the picture above, is not something you want to experience. Arc flash is very dangerous and is a safety concern in all facilities. Management must be aware of it.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an arc flash is an electric current that passes through air when insulation or isolation, between electrified conductors, is no longer sufficient to withstand the applied voltage.
Arc flash is a very bright and loud explosion with temperatures that can reach up to 35,000�F. The massive energy released from the arc flash vaporizes metal conductors, blasting molten metal outward.
According to CapSchell Inc., on average, approximately five to ten severe arc flash explosions occur every day in the United States. Each year, more than 2,000 people are treated in burn centers with severe arc flash injuries.
An arc flash can be caused by a tool dropped into a panel, accidental contact with a live circuit or even build-up of dust, dirt, corrosion or particles that can act as a conductor (more examples to the right).
Insurance companies will be holding Facility Management responsible for Electrical Safety Requirements outlined in the NFPA 70e (National Fire Protection Association Electrical Safety Code). This is the Standard for Electrical Safety in the workplace.
The National Electric Code (NEC) ARTICLE 110.16 requires that,
Electrical equipment such as switchboards, panel boards, industrial control panels, meter socket enclosures, and motor control centers that are in other than dwelling units, and are likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized shall be field marked to warn qualify persons of potential electric arc-flash hazards. The marking shall be located so as to be clearly visible to qualified persons before examinations, adjustments, servicing, or maintenance of the equipment." The NEC references the NFPA 70e. The NFPA 70e outlines the specific requirements for arc flash labeling.
Let's Be Proactive!
You can reduce your liability concerning arc flash hazards through the proper labeling of equipment. To label equipment properly, you will need a coordination/short circuit study performed on the entire electrical system.
Once the available energy can be determined at the equipment, the proper labeling can be applied. This will allow a qualified person to know exactly what the potential arc flash hazards are. He or she can then wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
All employees should be trained on the hazards of arc flash. Qualified personnel must be trained on the proper PPE required when working on any electrical equipment.
Proper labeling on equipment will reduce potential for injuries and protect the owner from liability.
In speaking with facility managers, it seems that insurance companies are becoming more stringent with the requirement of proper panel labeling. Since this is an NFPA 70e and NFPA 70 requirement, it is safe to say that we can anticipate seeing more of this in the near future.
Is your equipment properly labeled?
Give us a call at 732.548.3995 for more information