Arc Flash Studies
The best approach to electrical safety is to work only on de-energized equipment that has been appropriately locked out and placed in a safe condition. However, due to equipment design or operational limitations, de-energizing equipment is not always possible. Therefore, OSHA standards in conjunction with NESC, NFPA 70E, and the NEC have adopted safe work standards and requirements for personnel safety when working on and near energized lines or equipment. As stated in NESC 2007, “As of January 2009, all employers must (a) have completed arc-exposure analysis (b) require employees to wear clothing or a clothing system with an appropriate arc rating.”
An arc flash exposure analysis should be performed in association with or as a continuation of a system protection and coordination study. Results of the protection study are used to calculate the incident energy for assigned working distances throughout the utility.
Power System Engineering, Inc. (PSE) will work with you and the power supplier to collect the necessary system data required for the calculations. PSE can assist with the following to meet code requirements:
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Calculating cal/cm2 incident energy
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Calculating and defining flash protection boundaries (up to 15 kV)
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Modifying overcurrent device protection schemes to minimize fault current magnitude and duration resulting in lower arc flash incident energy
Ensure The Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Arc flash levels need to be continuously examined to ensure the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is maintained as significant system changes such as increasing substation transformer capacity or transmission line upgrades occur. PSE has the expertise to assist you with completing this critical task. Our professionals work on your behalf with a commitment to provide safe and efficient operation of your utility’s system.
