Arc Flash Prevention
Learn how to prevent arc flash burns by following safety procedures and wearing the correct PPE.
Arc Flash Prevention
An electric arc flash can occur if a conductive object gets too close to a high-amp current source or by equipment failure (for instance, while opening or closing disconnects).
The arc can heat the air to temperatures as high as 35,000 F, and vaporize metal in the equipment. The arc flash can cause severe skin burns by direct heat exposure and by igniting clothing. Take these measures to help prevent arc flash burns:
• Read and heed all signs warning of “arc flash protection boundary” (the distance at which PPE is needed to prevent incurable burns) around the circuit or equipment that has potential for arc flashes.
• Wear appropriate PPE when working within the arc flash protection boundary. The type of PPE depends on the electric work being done.
• If you have de-energized the parts you are going to work on, but are still inside the flash protection boundary for nearby live exposed parts and those parts cannot be de-energized, use barriers such as insulated blankets to protect against accidental contact or appropriate PPE.
• Follow safe work practices when working on or near live circuits. The process of energizing is “hot” work and can result in an arc flash due to equipment failure.
• Treat arc flash burns immediately. Arc flashes are extremely harmful and are potentially fatal.