What is an electrical arc flash?

An arc flash is not the same as electrical shock. Shock hazards are associated with current flowing through the body. Arc flash hazards happen when current flows through air in an unintended and dangerous way with an explosion of heat and energy.

What causes an arc flash?

Arcs can be started when conductor insulation or spacing is altered enough that current begins to flow where it is not designed to flow. Arcs can be initiated by equipment failure, human error such as a misplaced tool, critters, improper installation, water, and many other causes.

Who is responsible for arc flash safety?

  • OSHA requires employers to identify and communicate workplace hazards. Arc flash safety was first introduced by the NFPA in 1995 and employers should consider arc flash safety a high priority.
  • Each individual is responsible for their own safety and actions.

What is needed to be in compliance with arc flash safety requirements?

  1. Perform an arc flash study and label the hazards at each location.
  2. Perform arc flash safety training.
  3. Communicate hazards to employees and visitors through safety policies.
  4. Maintain electrical equipment

What is an arc flash assessment (or study or analysis)?

Blue Runner Switchgear Services will collect electrical system data, model your system using power system software, analyze the results, and document the findings in a report. Site specific and equipment specific arc flash hazard warning labels will be printed and installed at your facility following the guidelines of IEEE Standard 1584 – Guide for Performing Arc-Flash Hazard Calculations and the latest edition of NFPA 70E – Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.

What training is needed for site personnel?

NFPA safety training requirements are “determined by the risk to the employee” and can be classroom and/or one-the-job based training according to NFPA 70E Article 110.2(B). Blue Runner Switchgear offers training based on the specific needs of your facility and incorporates your existing safety policies (when available).

What policies are required by OSHA and the NFPA?

Both OSHA and the NFPA have themes of communication and documentation when it comes to electrical safety. Blue Runner Switchgear recommends each employer has the following policies and procedures:

  1. Overall electrical safety program (see NFPA 70E Article 110.1)
  2. Job briefing forms for unusual tasks (see NFPA 70E Article 110.1(H))
  3. Energized work permit (see NFPA 70E Article 130.2(B))
  4. Lock out tag out policy (see NFPA 70E Article 120)

The electrical safety program should be a part of the “employer’s overall occupational health and safety management system, when one exists” according to NFPA 70E Article 110.1(A). If your group does not have an ESP (electrical safety program), Blue Runner Switchgear can help you write a program that fits your particular needs.

Codes and standards are periodically updated and Blue Runner Switchgear can audit your existing program to “to verify that the principles and procedures of the electrical safety program are in compliance” as required by Article 110.1(I).

What does an arc flash label look like?

Our standard label includes all of the information required per NFPA 70E Article 130.5(D) including the nominal system voltage, arc flash boundary, site-specific level of PPE, and the working distance. Other helpful safety information is included such as the shock boundaries and glove class.  Labels can be customized as needed to match your facilities existing policies (when applicable).