Arc Flash Studies: Why and When Are They Necessary

What is an Arc Flash?

An arc flash is a sudden and intense release of energy resulting from an unintended arc fault, which occurs when there is a short circuit between live electrical components or between a live part and the ground. This release generates extreme heat and light, causing a powerful explosion that can project debris.  Electric arc flash is a serious hazard which has the potential for personnel injury, equipment damage and loss of business objectives.

An Arc flash can be caused by events such as:

• Loose connections

• Incorrect operation

• Lack of maintenance

• Faults in materials

• Animal Intrusions

• Use of incorrect assembly for the application, resulting in overheating and subsequently an internal arc

• Human error

What Is an Arc Flash Study?

An arc flash study is an analysis conducted to assess arc flash hazards, evaluate the risk of severe injury, and identify the necessary protective measures, including safety controls and personal protective equipment (PPE). This study determines the potential incident energy at electrical components that personnel may be exposed to during maintenance or operation. It also establishes safe approach distances and the appropriate PPE for working on electrical systems.

Why is an Arc Flash Study Necessary?

An arc flash study is required to understand the maximum amount of energy that could be released by equipment requiring maintenance and inform a designer on how to eliminate or reduce the hazard. Without an arc flash study, the proper elimination, reduction, mitigation, and protection techniques cannot be known to create a safe work environment around electrical equipment and installations.

When is an Arc Flash Study Required?

When workers are required to work on or near electrical equipment, all reasonably practicable measures should be taken to protect workers from the harmful effects of electric arc flash hazards through hazard elimination and risk reduction (Work Health and Safety Regulations). An Arc Flash Study is required when assessing electrical safety risks and ensuring compliance with standards such as AS 3000, AS 3011.2, NFPA 70E, and IEEE 1584.

Who Can Perform an Arc Flash Study?

Performing an arc flash study is considered “practicing engineering”. As such, when an arc flash study is required, it must be performed by an entity which is actively competent in the location of the project.

How can we help you safely reduce the incident energy?

At Divergent Engineering, we can help you reduce the incident energy to ensure electrical safety and compliance by applying advanced protection strategies such as:

• Protection Settings

• Arc Flash Sensors

• Remote Switching Panels

Divergent Engineering offers comprehensive Arc Flash Studies and can implement and supply effective arc flash controls to enhance the safety and reliability of your electrical systems. Please contact us today to find out how we can help you!