What to Know About Arc Flash Safety Arc flashes are incredibly powerful and very dangerous. Not convinced? How about this fact then: With the right conditions, the temperature of an arc flash can exceed that of the sun’s surface. This is made possible via a large release of energy over a very short time period, through an electrical arc when current passes through air between ungrounded conductors or between ungrounded and grounded conductors. Arc Flash Assessments This is the overall method used to assess the electrical dangers present in a work area. The assessment – required once every five years by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – determines working boundaries and the needed PPE for working on electrical systems. NFPA 70E lists the requirements for safe work practices to protect personnel by reducing exposure to major electrical hazards. Originally developed at OSHA’s request, NFPA 70E helps companies and employees avoid workplace injuries and fatalities due to shock, electrocution, arc flash, and arc blast. It also assists in complying with OSHA 1910 Subpart S and OSHA 1926 Subpart K. •NFPA 70E states that arc flash hazard calculations need to be reviewed every five years or whenever there is a significant change in the electrical system. •OSHA requires employers to perform workplace hazard assessments and provide appropriate PPE along with training on how to properly use it. •NFPA 70E – 2015 110.2 (D) (3): Retraining in safety-related work practices and applicable changes in this standard shall be performed at intervals not to exceed three years. OSHA 1910.132 requires that employers identify and protect their workers from workplace hazards. Every industrial / commercial power system includes inherent risks – specifically electrical shock and arc flash, anytime employees are “interacting with” electrical equipment while energized. Interacting with electrical equipment includes operation of fully enclosed switches and power circuit breakers as well as any exposure to energized equipment or circuit parts, including all energized testing or troubleshooting activities. SAFETY FOR TECHNICAL SUPPORT CONTACT: SAFETYQUESTIONS@FASTENAL.COM OR 1-833-FNL-SAFE
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