What is Arc Flash?

Causes, Risks, and Prevention of Arc Flash

An arc flash is a dangerous electrical explosion that occurs when an electric current unintentionally jumps through the air between conductors or to the ground, creating a low-impedance connection. This discharge results from a fault in the electrical system, releasing a large amount of electrical energy in the form of intense heat, light, and pressure. The heat generated by an arc flash can cause fires, explosions, and severe burns, posing significant risks to anyone nearby. In addition to the flash itself, the arc blast, a violent pressure wave, can further increase the potential for injury or damage, especially in confined electrical spaces.

What can cause an arc flash?

Damaged equipment

Environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and more

Failure to perform proper preventive maintenance

Operating live equipment

Uneducated or lack of training in the workplace

Improper or missing warning labels

Arc Flash Study Preventative Maintenance

Completing Your Arc Flash Study

While no federal law in the United States mandates an arc flash study, certain regulations and standards indirectly necessitate it as an essential component of a comprehensive electrical safety program. Ensure compliance and prioritize safety with an arc flash study tailored to your facility's needs.

What is an Arc Flash Study?

An arc flash study (i.e. arc flash hazard analysis or arc flash risk assessment) is an investigation done at a facility to identify potential arc flash hazards, assess the risk of severe injury, and guide the implementation of necessary protective measures to ensure electrical safety.

How Often is an Arc Flash Study Required?

Arc flash studies must be reviewed for accuracy at intervals not exceeding five years or more frequently if significant changes occur within the electrical system or if there are updates to regulations or standards, according to the NFPA 70E, Article 130.5.

How long does an arc flash study take?

From data collection to deliverables in hand, an arc flash study realistically takes 9 to 16 weeks. This is for a facility size of 150,000 sq ft - 300,000 sq ft. If the density of electrical equipment is high and service add-ons are created (equipment evaluations, coordination studies, etc.), the process will take longer.

While no federal law in the United States mandates an arc flash study, certain regulations and standards indirectly necessitate it as an essential component of a comprehensive electrical safety program. Ensure compliance and prioritize safety with an arc flash study tailored to your facility's needs.

What's included in a arc flash study report?

A typical arc flash study includes the following deliverables: an Arc flash risk analysis summary, single-line diagrams, arc flash labels, a mitigation study, a utility data report, and a fault contribution study. An equipment evaluation and coordination study are add-ons to the study option based on the facility.

How are arc flash studies done?

The arc flash study process can be summerized into three steps:

Gather electrical system data, including equipment specifications and configurations.
Analyze fault currents and protective device coordination to calculate incident energy levels.
Asess potential hazards, identify protective measures, and provide recommendations for risk mitigation.

Workplace injuries related to electrical and energy hazards can be minimized through proper education and training.

By prioritizing safety and awareness, you can help ensure a safer environment for all employees.

Be Proactive

Train your employees in the way of safety.

Set them up for success when accidents happen.