Arc Flash Analysis

If you aren't experienced around electrical systems you may never have heard of Arc Flash. We wrote an entire post explaining what it is, and how labels are determined here. The short version as defined by CSA Z462 is:

a dangerous conditions associated with the possible release of energy caused by an electric arc.

One of the outputs of an arc flash analysis is the label. During orientation, or general electrical safety training, workers will be trained on reading the label and determine how to choose PPE for the task at hand.

We develop arc flash analysis reports for our clients and if you would like to learn more you can learn more here - JMK Engineering Power System Analysis.

The two second "rule"

The two second rule was introduced in the original version of IEEE 1584 and carried into the 2018 version. The 2018 version reads, bolding by us:

If the total protective device clearing time is longer than two seconds, consider how long a person is likely to remain in the location of the arc flash. It is likely that a person exposed to an arc flash will move away quickly if it is physically possible, and 2 seconds usually is a reasonable assumption for the arc duration to determine the incident energy. However, this also depends on the specific task. A worker in a bucket truck, or inside an equipment enclosure, could need more time to move away. Use engineering judgment when applying any maximum arc duration time for incident energy exposure calculations, because there may be circumstances where a person's egress may be blocked. [1]

Arc Flash Labels

Site MCC with a label

If you have come to this page because you saw the URL on the label, but you haven't had any arc flash training yet, we have written a short article on how to read and use the Arc Flash Label. The critical information for the non-electrical worker is the limited approach and arc flash boundaries. You should ALWAYS stay the farthest away from the equipment when there is a shock hazard present. This is typically only the case if the covers are removed, but the label will spell it out.

I need labels

Sample Arc Flash Label

If you saw the label and realized that it is out of date (they should be reviewed every 5 years) or if you don't have labels you can contact us at +1 (902) 237-9984.

Footnotes and References

[1]IEEE-SA, IEEE Std 1584-2018 Guide for Performing Arc-Flash Hazard Calculations, IEEE, 2018.