Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What standards and regulations govern arc flash?
See NFPA 70E and OSHA's 1910.333. They're both covered in this arc flash safety video.
Is arc flash the same as electrical shock?
No. Electric shock comes from direct contact with an electric current. Arc flash, on the other hand, results when electrical current leaves its normal path and travels through the air.
Do I have to be touching an electrified object to be harmed by an arc flash?
No, you don't. You can be injured while more than 20 feet away.
What hazards might an arc flash create?
Extremely high temperatures, explosions, blinding light, secondary explosions, and more.
What hazards might an arc flash create?
Extremely high temperatures, explosions, blinding light, secondary explosions, and more.
What are some causes of arc flash?
Damaged electrical insulation; damaged electrical equipment; and impurities, dust, debris, and even animals or insects contacting electrical components.
In addition to the causes above, are there human causes of arc flash too?
Yes. People can contribute to or cause an arc flash by contacting a live electrical part, using unsafe or inappropriate tools, using tools in an unsafe manner, dropping tools, ignoring warning signs and labels, and ignoring lockout/tagout procedures.
What are the hazard risk categories?
A way to categorize the risk of arc flash danger at a specific distance from energizing equipment (from 0 to 4). The hazard risk category can be used to determine the proper PPE for a job.
What is Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV)?
A rating method used to determine the amount incident energy that arc flash clothing and PPE can withstand.
What are electrical equipment boundaries?
Zones that mark different levels of danger around live electrical equipment. The zones for electric shock are the Restricted Approach Boundary and the Limited Approach Boundary. The Arc Flash Boundary is separate from and in addition to the electric shock boundaries.
What should maintenance workers do to prevent the risk of arc flash?
Follow de-energizing procedures, lockout/tagout procedures, and all other safe work practices.