Tuesday, October 22, 2013

How Arc Flash Analysis And Training Help Protect Employees

By Elena McDowell


People are highly dependent on energy nowadays. Hence, it is imperative that all facilities receive the power it requires reliably and efficiently. More importantly, it must be installed properly to avoid mishaps. Errors with the electrical connection and equipment can be extremely dangerous to anyone nearby. Appropriate arc flash analysis, applied safety practices and administrative controls can all help reduce the possibilities of arc flash injuries.

Arc flash is defined as an electrical explosion typically resulting from low electric resistance of the ground connection or another voltage phase in an electrical system. It occurs when the electrical current flows in between a separated line or two conducting surfaces. Some common causes include improper work processes, insulation features, human errors and accidental contact among other environmental factors.

Given the potential harm it may cause, the NFPA or National Fire Protection Associated has set standards that help ensure safety in the workplace. This regulation plays vital role for overall safety measures aimed to promote personnel safety and prevent potential equipment damages. Every industry is required to abide by the said regulation.

Today, arc flash training and analysis are highly required in the leading electrical industry. In addition, it is very important for every company and employee to facilitate and undergo a training. Getting a safety certification is highly required in every state to ensure that workers understand and apply all the safety procedures established.

Various methods are constantly developed, tested and applied in different companies in an attempt to protect their valued assets. Thanks to the heightened awareness of the most common safety hazards. This may include proper calibration of electrical equipment, modifying existing designs and wearing of protective clothing and gears. Nonetheless, the best means of reducing electrical hazard in the workplace remains to be de-energizing of 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.

These procedures are designed to prevent any injuries resulting from an arc flash. Warning signs and appropriate labels are also helpful. Above all, only trained and qualified staff should be allowed to perform the most dangerous and critical functions. This does not only prevent issues from arising, but it also help contain the ill-effects of such incidents should it arises.

PPE is highly essential for every electrical work as well. This training program provides the personnel with the necessary information to prepare them for the hazards at bay. This is provided to the employees to increase awareness of the equipment and materials to be used to ensure safety. The PPE may include insulating gloves, flame-resistant clothing, face shield and headgear among others.

The management team and workers alike have to understand and abide by the safety policies to prevent issues and downplay work hazards. Arc flash analysis must be performed to provide ultimate protection. Always remember that these safety measures are but a fraction of the effort in performing a job, yet its impact is sizable.




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