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The Curious Bag
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Arc flash poses a threat to persons required to work on energized electrical systems. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) developed NFPA 70E, "Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace," as guidance to protect electrical workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cites NFPA 70E as the standard for workplace electrical safety. Arc flash hazard analysis identifies electrical danger zones and required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Data Collection
An arc flash hazard analysis is started by collecting data on the electrical system components, cable dimensions, and minimum and maximum fault (short-circuit) currents.
Short-Circuit Analysis
System protective devices, their bolt fault (short-circuit) current, and arc-fault energy that could be released are identified next.
Coordination Study
Examine the over-current protective devices for adequacy and perform a time-current analysis for each component.
Time-Current Analysis
Use the time-current analysis to assure that protective devices can accommodate acceptable over-current surges without breaking the circuit.
Work Distances
Calculate the safe work distances for each energized system based on the formulae included in NFPA 70E and the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Standard 1584.
Final Results
Use the information from the analysis to designate arc-flash hazard zones, properly label hazardous electrical equipment, and select appropriate PPE.
Source:
National Electric Code Internet Connection
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