Arc Flash Hazard Analysis

An arc flash is a type of electrical explosion or discharge that results from a low-impedance connection through air to ground or another voltage phase in an electrical system. Arc flash temperatures can reach or exceed 35,000 °F at the arc terminals. The massive energy released in the fault rapidly vaporizes the metal conductors involved, blasting molten metal and expanding plasma outward with extraordinary force. The result of the violent explosion event can cause destruction of equipment involved, fire, and injury not only to the electrical worker but also to bystanders.

There can be multiple possible causes of Arc Flash such as dust accumulation, corrosion/ dirt contamination, faulty equipment, poor maintenance, tool dropped into an equipment, careless removal or replacement cover and device, etc. Objectives of the Arc Flash Hazard Analysis are:

• ·        To determine the risk of personal injury as a result of exposure to incident energy from an electrical arc flash.

  ·        To determine the incident energy evolved, safe flash protection boundary and PPE requirements as a function of location and work activity. 

Sigma-HSE conduct the Arc Flash Hazard Analysis based on IEEE 1584 2002-2004 in compliance with NFPA70E using ETAP (Electrical Transient Analysis Program) software.

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