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AVOID ARC FLASH ELECTRICAL HAZARDS T1708-04 ©2007 Bongarde

WHAT’S AT STAKE If you have to work on equipment that cannot be de-energized before you work on it, you need knowledge about arc flash It can cause traumatic injuries and death

WHAT’S THE DANGER Short circuit through air Large amounts of light and heat are released explosively Waves of energy Superheated ball of gas Loose or damaged equipment or tools

WHAT’S THE DANGER Amount of heat can be very large How much energy passes through the system How long the worker is exposed Distance from where flash is produced

EXAMPLE: Mike and Bob knew every electrical part of the plant Into the panel switch room for maintenance Didn’t think of wearing personal protective equipment Knew the panel must be left energized

EXAMPLE: They heard a crackling and rumbling and a loud explosion Room filled with noise and fire Had second and third degree burns, difficulty breathing and couldn’t hear

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Get training De-energize and lockout/tagout Follow electrical safety codes Conduct arc flash analysis Personal protective clothing and equipment “Arc Flash Hazard” label

Final Word Arc flashes are dangerous. Death from their injuries is a real possibility.