How Arc Flash Analysis And Training Help Protect Employees

By Elena McDowell


Energy is highly important in every industry. Every facility must have an efficient and reliable source of energy to keep it going. Notwithstanding, the electrical system must be properly installed to keep it safe from dangers. Errors in electrical system or equipment can pose dangers to everyone around. Hence, every facility must enforce safety practices, administrative controls and appropriate arc flash analysis to reduce chances of arc flash injuries.

The arc flash is described as electrical explosion that are typically arising from low electrical resistance of another voltage phase or the ground connection of an electrical system. This usually occurs when electrical current moves between two conducting surfaces or a separated electrical line. Among the most common causes are insulation failure, accidental contact, improper work processes, human error and other external factors that may cause the connections to snap.

In line with this, the National Fire Protection Associated established standards that ensure safety in the workplace. These standards are designed to promote safety for the personnel as well as prevent possible damages to the equipment. Therefore, it must be strictly followed in every industry.

At present, arc flash synthesis and training are required in the electrical industry. Every company must facilitate training for the employees. Safety certification is required in every state before any entity can operate. This ensures that the workers fully understand and willingly apply the safety procedures they have to observe.

With increased awareness of the common dangers present, there have been various methods developed and applied in many companies of protecting their personnel. This may include workers wearing PPE, proper configuration of their electrical equipment and modifying their existing designs. However, it is said that one of the best ways to reduce the hazard is to de-energize the equipment during personnel interaction.

Employees are discouraged to operate a live equipment more than fifty volts. This is integrated in every training session. However, if the situation calls and the personnel will need to wok on an energized equipment, safe work practices must be thoroughly observed during the job. Expert analysis on the equipment, risk assessment, protective equipment and proper materials must be carried out.

Safe work procedures are designed to prevent injuries and issues related to arc flash. Proper labeling and observance of warning signs is a major precaution that must not be overlooked. It goes without saying that only a trained and qualified employee must perform the most critical jobs to avoid issues and mitigate any ill-effects.

PPE is essential in electrical works, too. The training program prepares the personnel with the knowledge on how to prevent potential hazards. Every employee must be made aware of the right materials and equipment used to avoid harm. The PPE includes appropriate flame-resistant gears, head protection, insulating gloves and face masks.

To fully maximize the benefits of arc flash analysis, it must be understood and performed not only by the workers but by the management as well. Unless the management fully understand its importance, it may conveniently overlook such a crucial preparation. The fraction of effort it asks for is nothing when compared to the protection it provides to the company's asset.




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1 comment:

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