Frequently Asked Questions
WHY DO I NEED AN ARC FLASH ANALYSIS?
To determine the proper PPE a worker must wear when exposed to energized, or potentially energized electrical equipment to protect form serious injury in the event of an arc flash.
WHAT IS AN ARC FLASH INCIDENT ENERGY ANALYSIS?
An arc flash incident energy analysis is a detailed study that calculates the potential arc flash magnitude and protection boundaries at specific electrical equipment. This method requires the electrical system to be modeled in a software program which is designed to calculate the arc flash incident energy using many factors.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AN ARC FLASH INCIDENT ENERGY ANALYSIS?
An Incident energy analysis is a more accurate method of determining the PPE required for certain tasks. Often times, this results in a lower PPE level required for exposure to electrical equipment versus using the Arc Flash PPE Category method based on specific tasks.
IS IT MANDATED?
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132(d)(1) — Requires employers to perform a PPE hazard assessment to determine necessary PPE.
WHAT EQUIPMENT NEEDS TO BE LABELED?
Per the 2017 National Electric Code, article 110.16; Electrical equipment such as switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, industrial control panels, meter socket enclosures in other than dwelling units, and is likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized.
HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO UPDATE MY ARC FLASH STUDY?
When changes to electrical system occur that could affect the results of the analysis. The analysis should also be reviewed for accuracy at intervals not to exceed 5 years.