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WHAT IS ARC FLASH?

Find out what it is, what causes it and how to prevent it

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Arc Flash Protection

AS ARC FLASH SPECIALISTS WE CAN HELP YOU

ARC FLASH PROTECTION

Awareness of the dangers of Arc Flash incidents and the need to protect your team with specialist Arc Flash protection is more important today than it has ever been. A focus on Arc Flash protection will only increase as you become more aware of the dangers an Arc Flash incident can pose.

A fundamental aspect of your role is to understand how these risks can be mitigated, whether you are operating in an industrial electrical, power generation or petrochemicals environment, breaking ground in a utility company or undertaking work on the railways.

Mitigating risk with safe working practices and by providing appropriate garments that offer superior Arc Flash protection saves lives every day.

What is an Arc Flash?

An Arc Flash occurs when an electrical discharge travels through the air and releases an intense burst of energy. This flash is capable of causing serious harm to anyone caught by it, so adequate Arc Flash protection is of the utmost importance.

The energy expelled by an Arc Flash event can be deadly, with temperatures reaching up to 35,000ºF or more than 19,000ºC. It goes without saying; this can burn clothing and human skin within fractions of a second, even if the operative is situated five or six metres away from the Arc Flash event.

The cause of an arc flash typically stems from contact between an energized conductor, such as a bus bar or wire, and another conductor or grounded surface. This can occur due to equipment failure, uninsulated tools, or damaged cables. While it is often assumed that high voltage systems are more prone to arc flash incidents, studies have shown that low voltage systems can be equally, if not more, hazardous. Variables such as the current flow, gap size between conductors, electrode composition, and surrounding environmental factors all influence the severity of the arc flash.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF ARC FLASH?

EQUIPMENT FAILURE

It stands to reason that if equipment fails or is improperly designed or installed, an Arc Flash incident could be caused. Faulty system design can also contribute to an increased likelihood of Arc Flash incidents, also known as electrical flashovers. Damage to insulation, gaps, or wear and tear can also create the pathways needed for an unwanted electric discharge through the air. Exposed live parts or loose connections could also be the culprits. Regular inspections of your electrical systems and equipment will help to predict and prevent Arc Flash incidents.

SPONTANEOUS

There are other factors which can increase the likelihood of an Arc Flash incident. These causes include:

– Corrosion of electrical equipment

– A build up of dust, which can conduct an electrical charge

– Moisture or vapor, which can also conduct an electrical charge

– Animal contact – mice, for example, can create the route needed for an Arc Flash to occur

HUMAN ERROR

Human error is the most common cause of Arc Flash incidents. It could be a gang breaking ground and hitting a cable not marked on the services plan, a test probe touched to the wrong surface, or a tool dropped accidentally which hits a live switchgear.

Other ways that human error can cause an Arc Flash are through the improper installation of equipment, preventative maintenance that isn’t carried out properly (or at all) and failing to de-energise equipment where it’s possible. A lack of appropriate training can increase the chances of human error causing an incident. But distractions, weariness, the pressure to get the job done quickly and restore power, or just an overly-relaxed attitude can make electrical engineers bypass safety procedures, which can all too easily result in a dropped tool or making contact between energised conductors.

Arc Flash - 4 P's Protect Predict Prevent Publish

THE 4P METHODOLOGY

The 4P methodology simplifies hazard assessments into four steps:

Predict
An educated prediction on the severity of an Arc Flash following an assessment.

Prevent
Prevent any damage through hazard mitigation. This includes reducing the risks and mitigating hazards.

Protect
Protect workers from residual hazards using PPE and procedures.

Publish
Publish the results with the wider team and provide training.

IS ARC PROTECTION REQUIRED IN MY INDUSTRY?

Arc Flash incidents are common across industries such as power generation, utilities, industrial electrical and the rail industry. Arc Flash protective clothing can help prevent serious burns and permanent injury to those working in these sectors.

If you operate in any of these five key industry sectors, you should be considering Arc Flash protection for your team.

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POWER GENERATION

Your team are at risk of an Arc Flash incident inside and outside power stations

UTILITIES

Workers in the field require protection from Arc Flash dangers, especially if they are breaking ground on a regular basis

PETROCHEMICALS

We know that awareness of Arc Flash dangers is now an integral part of your risk assessments. Arc Flash garments are becoming the safety clothing of choice for many in this sector

RAIL

Arc Flash protection on the railways is vital. Arc Flash protective garments are available that comply with the special requirements of UK regulations for high visibility

Industrial Electrical

Those working with high voltage power supplies, in distribution centres and industrial and commercial maintenance teams are all at risk of Arc Flash incidents. Make sure they are protected

Why Do You Need Arc Flash Protection?

Thermal energy from an Arc Flash incident can be deadly. When someone is exposed to an Arc Flash incident, serious burns and other potentially life threatening injuries can be minimised and even avoided by effectively utilising Arc Flash garments.

An Arc Flash event may not be a daily occurrence in your business, but they are happening multiple times every working day in the UK. Risk assessment and precautions through safe working practices can be instigated by your company, and that will limit the possibility of an Arc Flash incident. These Arc Flash studies assess the risks in your working environment.

Wearing the correct Arc Flash protective garments for a specific risk level will further increase safety. There will always remain a risk, but there is significant Arc Flash protection available through wearing the correct garments.

Protecting your team

If your team works with electric hazards, you need to know that they are fully protected against the thermal pressures of an Arc Flash and flash fire incident. Arc Flash protection is governed by EN 61482-2, a European Standard that is associated with two common testing methods: the Open Arc Test Method and the Box Test Method.

At ProGARM, we remain committed to protecting your team. That’s why our Arc Flash and Flame Resistant clothing is tested to the highest thermal hazard standards, along with a range of other standards including those regulating durability and design. Our aim is to supply you with a complete protective garment to ensure your team’s safety.

ALL OUR ARC STANDARDS

Purchasing products which conform to EN Standards guarantees your team is protected.

Depending on which sector you operate in, the EN Standards that matter to your business may differ slightly if your industry requires Arc Flash clothing. However, it’s vital that you equip your team with protective clothing that conforms to IEC 61482. This is the international standard applicable to Arc Flash and flash fire hazard protection.

All ProGARM Arc Flash garments are rigorously tested to the Open Arc and Box Arc methods, providing protection across our range. EN ISO 11612 certified garments provide protection against heat and flame. This protects against hazards including radiant heat, convective heat and splatters of molten metal, although it is not a substitute for clothing made to withstand high temperatures for longer periods of time.

The specifications for each standard that ProGARM Arc Flash garments conform to are provided both on our website and in our brochure. You can be sure that you’re equipping your team with clothing designed to protect them in the field, whichever sector you operate in.

EN 1149-5

The European Standard for garments that protect against electrostatic discharge in areas where there is a risk of explosion ATEX Environments such as petrochemical refineries and fuel distribution companies.

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RIS-3279-TOM

The high visibility standard that applies to the rail industry in the UK and ensures rail workers on or near the trackside are sufficiently visible to trains or other traffic approaching at speed.

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EN 61482-2

Specifies requirements andtest methods applicable to materials and garments for protective clothing worn by electrical workers to protect them against the thermal hazards of electric Arc.... Specifies requi... Read More

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EN ISO 11611

ProGARM products are certified in accordance with this EN Standard to protect workers in welding processes by subjecting fabrics to a series of tests.

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EN ISO 20471

The international standard that specifies the requirements for hi vis clothing ensuring the wearer is more noticeable in hazardous situations during the day, as well as at night.

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EN 14404

This EN Standard relates to trousers and coveralls which offer kneepad pockets to protect the wearer when kneeling.

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EN ISO 11612

The requirements apply to clothing intended for a wide range of application which offer limited flame spread and provide protection against various hazards including Radiant Heat, Convective Heat and splatters... Read More

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EN 13034

Garments manufactured in accordance with this EN Standard are suitable for use in environments where there may be a risk of chemical splashes but where a total chemical barrier is not required.

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EN ISO 14116

Clothing manufactured to this standard is made from flame retardant materials so that if the material comes into contact with a flame, it will only continue to burn for a limited amount of time. After removal ... Read More

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EN 343

This EN Standard specifies the requirements and test methods for materials and the seams of protective clothing that has been designed to give protection against rain, snow, mist and ground moisture.

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EN 1149-5

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MITCHELL’S ARC FLASH STORY

Despite many believing an Arc Flash is only a risk in high voltage situations, in reality, an Arc Flash remains a serious danger even when working in low voltage environments.

MITCHELL’S ARC FLASH STORY

Despite many believing an Arc Flash is only a risk in high voltage situations, in reality, an Arc Flash remains a serious danger even when working in low voltage environments.

CE CERTIFICATION

Only products that have the correct CE Certification markings are guaranteed to comply with European PPE legislation.

The three categories of Regulation (EU) 2016/425 which regulates PPE, take into consideration the complexity of protective equipment. Category 1 protective equipment for instance, is of simple design and used in situations where the user can determine the necessary protection level. Category 2, on the other hand, covers equipment that is neither simple nor complex. While this is subject to external assessment, it is not subject to any EC quality assurance system.

Category 3 protective equipment is signalled on ProGARM Arc Flash and flash fire garments by a four-digit number attached to the CE Marking. This number indicates that the piece of PPE is continually checked by the relevant independent body for conformity. All ProGARM’s PPE products comply with the requirements in the PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425.

HOW DO WE KNOW IF WE NEED ARC FLASH PPE?

Keeping your team safe is always top priority. And your team need to be protected against an Arc Flash incident if there is a risk of one occurring whilst they work.

If your teams work in the above industries or close to sources of high voltage, there is a good chance they need to be protected. Your first step may be to conduct an Arc Flash study at your site. An Arc Flash study is a risk assessment of a workplace environment that determines Arc Flash hazards. An expert in electrical safety conducts an assessment to ensure that a company understands the risks their workplace poses to their team and how to protect against them. Assessment providers may also offer training to increase your team’s awareness and options for periodic reviews.

WHAT DOES AN ARC FLASH STUDY INVOLVE?

How big would the bang be? That is the central question that an Arc Flash study seeks to answer. Only by knowing this can you adequately protect your team against the Arc Flash risks of their working environment. An Arc Flash study will identify areas of low risk, as well as those at high risk of an Arc Flash incident. This allows you to tailor your Arc Flash protection strategy accordingly. The study will also assess the potential severity of injury at a given distance and locate the protection boundary at which there is a severe danger of second-degree burns. There are many facets to a successful Arc Flash assessment and generally, they are adapted to fit your specific industry and requirements. They can include Arc Flash calculations, fault level studies and comprehensive site surveys.

WHO NEEDS TO CARRY OUT AN ARC FLASH STUDY?

Companies in the UK are not currently obliged to perform Arc Flash assessments on their sites. This is in stark opposition to the USA, where there is more awareness about the dangers of Arc Flash incidents. An Arc Flash study may be optional, but the positive impact on safety within your organisation is likely to be significant. Arc Flash protective clothing is vital to protect your team should they be at risk. An Arc Flash study will highlight what level of protection is needed, allowing you to make an informed decision about your team’s Arc Flash protective clothing requirements. Arc Flash garments are available from specialist Arc Flash and non-specialist suppliers – we believe that when lives are at stake that you should trust a specialist. All garments that are rated for Arc Flash protection conform to EN Standards, but not all Arc Flash garments are created equal.
Arc Flash protection is found in specialist garments – everything from insulating warm Arc Flash base layers to Arc Flash waterproof jackets and trousers. Enhanced and effective Arc Flash protection comes through wearing layers of protective garments manufactured from inherent fibres and which feature specific Arc Flash resilient components. In addition, the level of protection or Arc Rated Category and other information about the garment’s level of protection should be clearly visible.

Not all Arc Flash protective garments are manufactured the same. Whilst many garments meet minimum standards you need to ensure that the level of protection and quality of garment are sufficient to provide the protection the wearer needs.

Quality Arc Flash protective garments from ProGARM won’t simply allow you to survive an incident, they will significantly reduce the level of injury that is sustained.

We believe when lives are at stake you should trust a specialist. Someone who is using 100% inherent fibres, that develops highly durable garments that will continue to offer a high level of protection throughout the life of the garment and that has a high level of production rigour to ensure a consistent quality and garment traceability.