NIOSHTIC-2 Publications Search

Arc flash awareness.

Kowalski-Trakofler KM; Barrett EA; Urban C; Homce G

Pittsburgh, PA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2007-116D, 2007 Jan; :DVD

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/works/coversheet1839.html

20031714

What is an arc flash? An arc flash is the sudden release of electrical energy through the air when a high-voltage gap exists and there is a breakdown between conductors. An arc flash gives off thermal radiation (heat) and bright, intense light that can cause burns. Temperatures have been recorded as high as 35,000 degrees F. High-voltage arcs can also produce considerable pressure waves by rapidly heating the air and creating a blast. This pressure burst can hit a worker with great force and send molten metal droplets from melted copper and aluminum electrical components great distances at extremely high velocities. At flash is sometimes called arc fault or arc blast. What causes an arc flash? An arc flash can be spontaneous or result from inadvertently bridging electrical contacts with a conducting object. Other causes may include dropped tools or the buildup of conductive dust or corrosion. Conditions under which arc flash can occur: 1. Working on an energized circuit; 2. Electrical equipment failure. Important safety recommendations: NFPA 70E. Establish an "electrically safe work condition" before working on a circuit by deenergizing it. Create an "electrically safe work condition" by: (1) Identifying all power sources, (2) Interrupting the load and disconnecting power, (3) Visually verifying that a disconnect has opened the circuit, (4) Locking out and tagging the circuit, (5) Testing for voltage, and (6) Grounding all power conductors. All of these steps require the use of appropriate personnel protective equipment for shock and arc flash protection: safety glasses, voltage rated gloves, (fire-resistant (FR) work clothes, arc-rated face shields, flash suits with hoods, and hearing protection. Use a written permit system for planning and conducting work on or near energized parts. Use tools, meters, and other equipment that is suitable for the voltage and current levels present when performing all electrical work. A Permit contains information such as how the work will be conduced, detailed information about the shock and flash hazards involved, safe work practices to be used, personal protective equipment (PPE) and who authorized the energized work.

Electrical-charge; Electrical-equipment; Electrical-hazards; Electrical-safety; Electrical-shock; Electrical-workers; Electricity

20070101

Numbered Publication; Video

2007

DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2007-116D

PRL

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

PA