Protecting personnel from Arc Flash Hazards
Understanding the connection between Arc Flash Hazards, NFPA 70E, and OSHA requirements

Arc Flash is the result of a rapid release of energy due to an arcing fault between electrical conductor(s) and another electrical conductor(s) or ground. During an arc fault air becomes the conductor. A massive amount of energy discharges during the arc flash or blast. This energy burns the conductors, vaporizing the copper and thus causing an explosive volumetric increase, the arc blast. This explosion propels deadly shrapnel and molten metal as it dissipates. This rapid release of energy can cause debilitating burns, other injuries, and even death.

Without an Arc Flash Hazard Analysis, employers cannot properly protect their personel from arc flash hazards.

OSHA requires adherence to a six-point plan:
1. Provide and be able to demonstrate a safety program with defined responsibilities.
2. Calculations for the degree of arc flash hazards (Arc Flash Hazard Analysis).
3. Correct personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers.
4. Training for workers on the hazards of arc flash.
5.Appropriate tools for safe electrical work.
6. Warning labels on equipment that are provided by the equipment owners.

NFPA 70E is the Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. The current standard was approved as an American National Standard in 2004. The standard addresses those electrical safety requirements for employee workplaces that are necessary for the practical safeguarding of employees in their pursuit of gainful employment. The OSHA requirement refers to the standard as outlined in NFPA 70E.

SSM can help you comply with NFPA 70E
• Verification and updates of facility or campus single line diagrams.
• Develop a personalized Electrical Safety Program and Procedure.
• Training
• Recognizing and understanding electrical and arc flash hazards
• Safety-related work practices, including avoidance of electrical and arc flash hazards
• Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) selection and use for arc flash protection
• Insulated tool selection and use
• Care and inspection of PPE and tools
• Electrical System Analysis
• Short circuit current analysis
• Circuit Coordination
• Arc Flash Hazard Analysis
• Provide recommendations for appropriate arc-flash hazard reduction
• Arc Flash hazard labeling that exceeds NEC 110.16


For more information
Steve Moore, PE - steve.moore@ssmgroup.com