Safety First
An ounce of prevention from your Brook friends
 Arc Flash Hazards
An arc flash can happen in as little as 1/1000 of a second. It can result in temperatures up to 35,000 degrees F. This is four times hotter than the surface of the sun and can result in fatal burns up to five feet from the arc, and severe burns at distances up to ten feet away. In addition, an arc-blast may occur. An arc-blast results from the rapid heating of air and the vaporization of metal. This creates a pressure wave than can damage hearing and cause a concussion resulting in memory loss. An arc-blast can also result in flying metal, some of which may be molten.
- Identify equipment and components that have a potential arc flash hazard. The NEC code identifies the following equipment as requiring arc flash labels.
- Switchboards
- Panelboards
- Industrial control panels
- Meter socket enclosures
- Motor control centers
- Use Lock Out / Tag Out procedures to ensure equipment is de-energized, or live components are isolated.
- Ensure all potential arc flash hazards are properly labeled. Standard arc flash labels, such as those shown on this page can be used. Or use a label printer to create custom labels that include specific information such as safe distances and required Personal Protective Equipment.
- Labels which clearly identify equipment and components are important for eliminating confusion. In some instances it may also be appropriate to provide labels with maintenance or cleaning procedures.
- To ensure you have a safe workplace, and that you are meeting NEC, OSHA, IEEE and NFPA* requirements, use specialized arc flash software to calculate protection boundaries. These include the Flash Protection Boundary, Limited Approach Boundary, Restricted Approach Boundary and the Prohibited Approach Boundary.
- Provide employee training. Be sure all employees are trained so they are aware of the dangers resulting from arc flashes; they understand the warning labels and signs; and they know how to use the appropriate PPE. Everyone working on electrical equipment should be fully trained and qualified for the job.
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