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The Real Risk Behind Missing Arc Flash Labels

Updated: Jun 1

Industrial electrical panel with arc flash warning labels required for NFPA 70E compliance and worker safety

In any facility with energized electrical equipment, arc flash labels are more than just stickers, they are life-saving tools. Yet, it’s not uncommon to find missing, damaged, or outdated arc flash labels in commercial and industrial settings. This oversight doesn’t just jeopardize compliance; it puts workers directly in harm’s way. At Herzig Engineering, we help companies avoid these hidden dangers through comprehensive arc flash studies and on-site label application services. 


Why Arc Flash Labels Matter 

Arc flash labels provide critical information that helps workers: 

  • Identify the presence of arc flash hazards 

  • Determine the correct level of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

  • Understand the approach boundaries and incident energy levels 


According to NFPA 70E, every piece of electrical equipment is likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized must be labeled with the nominal voltage, arc flash boundary and a method for determining the required PPE. OSHA enforces these labeling requirements under the General Duty Clause and electrical safety standards. 


The Consequences of Missing Labels 

Missing or incorrect arc flash labels can result in: 

  • Serious injuries or fatalities due to incorrect PPE usage 

  • OSHA citations and fines 

  • Increased liability for employers 

  • Delays in maintenance and troubleshooting due to safety uncertainty 


In real-world scenarios, even experienced workers can make dangerous assumptions when labels are not present. The lack of clear hazard information creates unnecessary risks that could otherwise be mitigated. 

 

How Herzig Engineering Solves the Problem 

Our Arc Flash Studies include on-site label application by trained professionals. We ensure: 

  • Every piece of required equipment is accurately labeled 

  • Labels are durable, clear, and compliant with NFPA 70E 

  • Updates are documented and maintained through our client portal for future reference 

We also perform Electrical Safety Audits to identify missing or outdated labels and implement a plan for correction. 



Arc Flash Label Requirements

Arc flash labels are no longer just a best practice; they’re becoming a much more visible compliance requirement under the 2026 NEC. Updated Section 110.16 expands labeling requirements beyond large service equipment, requiring permanent arc flash hazard markings on electrical equipment that may need to be examined, serviced, or maintained while energized.


Labels must include critical information such as:

  • The nominal system voltage

  • Arc flash boundary

  • Available incident energy or required PPE level

  • The date the assessment was completed.


The goal is simple: give workers the information they need before opening a door or interacting with energized equipment. We often find facilities with outdated labels, inconsistent data, or labels that no longer reflect system changes. An accurate, P.E.-reviewed arc flash study paired with consistent label application helps ensure the information on the equipment matches the real hazard workers face in the field.


Prevent the Preventable 

Arc flash incidents are preventable and so are labeling errors. Don’t leave your safety program incomplete. Partner with Herzig Engineering to ensure your labeling is as up-to-date and reliable as your equipment. 



Act Now 

Don’t wait for an incident or an OSHA inspection to discover a missing label. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive arc flash study and keep your facility compliant and safe. 



If you missed this live, here’s your chance to catch up. We’ve added the full webinar replay and key takeaways in this quick blog recap.

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