When being exposed to electric arc hazards at work, OSHA requires wearing clothing that must not ignite, melt or continue to burn. NFPA 70E requires wearing Arc Flash clothing for any potential exposure above 1.2 cal/cm2. In order to identify the necessary level of protection, the heat energy to which workers are exposed must be calculated. This process helps determine safe work practices, arc flash and shock boundaries, and proper PPE levels.Ī qualified worker entering the arc flash boundary must be wearing the appropriate PPE. According to ANSI/ASSE Z690.1-2011, risk assessment includes three distinct components: risk identification (finding, recognizing and recording hazards) risk analysis (understanding consequences, probabilities and existing controls) risk evaluation (comparing levels of risk and considering additional controls). The first step in selecting the right protective measures at work place is performing a complete risk assessment. buildup of conductive dust, corrosion or contamination.human error including dropped tools that can produce a spark, accidental contact with electrical systems, and improper work procedures,.Unintentional contact between an energized conductor with another conductor or earthed surface,."the light and heat produced from an electric arc supplied with sufficient electrical energy to cause substantial damage, harm, fire, or injury." Because arc flash temperature can reach 35,000° F, which is three times higher than the Earth's core temperature, the severity of workers' injuries can be devastating: permanent loss of hearing or eyesight, severe burns, and even death. Arc flash concerns were first published in 1982 in Ralph Lee's paper “The Other Electrical Hazard: Electric Arc Blast Burns.” Arc flash hazards were not formally studied until 1993, which is why they are still the least understood electrical hazard existing in most industries.
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