Arc Flash Hazard Analysis

Interpret – Assess – Implement

Arc Flash Hazard Analysis is an important tool used to meet safety regulatory compliance requirements and best practices as set by NFPA, OSHA , and in accordance with the NEC. In the United States employers are expected to provide a workplace environment free from known and recognizable hazards that it would be reasonable to expect to cause serious injury or death. Failure to do so can result in being cited by OSHA. The 2009 NFPA 70E standard outlines the requirements for performing Arc Flash Hazard Analysis including safety boundary and PPE requirements. Arc Flash Hazard Analysis ensures regulatory standards are met, reduces the possibility of injury to employees, and mitigates the financial consequences associated with an arc flash incident.

Atlas will Interpret, Assess, and Implement Your Energized Electrical Safety Program.  Call 800.281.0650 or 206.774.8704 for More Information.

Arc Flash Assessment is the determination of the level of hazard which exists at each electrical enclosure including control panels, panel boards, switchgear and disconnect switches. Several steps are involved including data collection, analysis, training and consulting.

Single Line Diagrams

Arc Flash Hazard Analysis begins by determining the modes of operation and system scope by reviewing the current electrical prints and identifying all power sources and equipment including generators, panel boards, MCCs, XFMRs, UPS, and protective devices.

Data Collection

Next Atlas supplies state certified field technicians for the on-site data acquisition which will be used develop facility single line diagrams.

Short Circuit Analysis

The amount of current available during a fault will then be determined for the electrical system by the Short Circuit Analysis. Improper over current rating design may promote premature system or operational failures such as tripped breakers or blown fuses. Atlas will identify any under rated equipment and offer recommendations.

Coordination of Protective Devices

Based on inrush currents produced within electrical systems, all protective devices must be coordinated to provide adequate protection of equipment. These settings are time based values that allow normal currents to exist while minimizing the duration of fault currents. A system that has been properly coordinated will open the nearest protective device experiencing a fault current which in turn will prevent large scale electrical system failures.

Arc Flash Calculations

Using SKM PowerTools software calculations for incident energy, Arc Flash boundaries, and PPE requirements are determined which adhere to IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E.

Arc Flash Labels

Arc flash hazard warning labels that are ANSI Z535 compliant and UV resistant will then be provided to identify the appropriate PPE category and class, safety distances, and shock hazard. These labels clearly provide required information as per NFPA 70E, OSHA and the NEC.

PPE – Protective Protection Equipment

After arc flash calculations and warning labeling has been completed, Atlas will recommend the best PPE and tool selections established by the frequency your maintenance personnel work on or near energized equipment and enclosures.

The Final Report

The Arc Flash Hazard Analysis Final Report for your facility electrical equipment will include dangerous energy levels, improper equipment ratings, over-current protection settings and coordination issues.

Electrical Safety and Arc Flash Training

Upon completion of the analysis, Atlas can provide electrical safety training including electrical safety requirements, hazard identification, proper use and tool selection, use and inspection of all PPE, and safe work practices as required by OSHA and NFPA 70E.

Contact 206.774.8704 or 800.281.0650 for more information on our Arc Flash Hazard Analysis Inspection Programs.