8 Steps to Arc Flash Compliance

An engineered Arc Flash Hazard Analysis Study

The following steps are required to conduct an Arc Flash Hazard Analysis (AFHA)in compliance with NFPA-70E and using the IEEE Method 1584 calculations:

  1. Data Gathering / Field Verification of Single Lines - Field verify existing single line diagram if available, or walk down distribution system and sketch one.
  2. Utility Information - Contact Utility Provider to obtain the available utility fault current and upstream protection stream to establish starting point for the study.
  3. Short Circuit Study - A short-circuit analysis is conducted to obtain the worst-case available bolted-fault current at each point in the distribution system.
  4. Overcurrent Protection Device Coordination Study - Conduct the coordination study to ensure protective devices will interrupt current in an orderly fashion to protect both affected workers and equipment.
  5. Arc Flash Results and Hazard Risk Categories - Perform the Arc Flash Analysis using IEEE-1584 Method calculations to determine Flash Protection Boundary, Incident Energy, Hazard Risk Category and associated required Personal Protective Equipment.
  6. Label Equipment - Apply Arc Flash Warning Labels to electrical distribution equipment in order to notify workers of the Potential Arc Flash Hazard and the required Personal Protective Equipment.
  7. Train Affected Employees - Conduct training for affected employees to ensure their understanding of the required PPE and procedure for affecting work in an NFPA-70E Compliant workplace.
  8. Provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Purchase and make available the required PPE for affected workers.

According to the NFPA-70E® Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, 2009 Edition, Article 130.3: "The arc flash hazard analysis shall be updated when a major modification or renovation takes place. It shall be reviewed periodically, not to exceed five years, to account for changes in the electrical distribution system that could affect the results of the arc flash hazard analysis".

Arc Flash Studies

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