Protect Yourself from Arc Flashes

Whenever there is sufficient voltage in an electrical system and a path to ground, an electric arc or arc flash can occur.  Arc flashes can be quite dangerous and may cause extensive damage to electrical components, fires, or personal injury.  A typical arc flash may be insignificant, yet some can produce severe explosions and cause injury to those nearby .

It is extremely important when working with electrical equipment to take appropriate precautionary measures such as de-energizing electrical equipment and, of course, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).  Arc Flash PPE materials are tested for their arc rating, which indicates the maximum incident energy resistance of that material.  Arc rating is typically expressed as small calories of heat energy per square centimeter (cal/cm2).  Tests to determine arc rating are available in ASTM F1506-10 Standard Performance Specification for Flame Resistant Textile Materials for Wearing Apparel for Use by Electrical Workers Exposed to Momentary Electric Arc and Related Thermal Hazards.

While PPE is important, the downside is that it provides protection after an arc flash incident has already occurred, and therefore should be viewed as the last line of protection. Reducing the frequency and severity of incidents should be the first option and can be achieved through a complete arc flash hazard assessment, along with implementing technology such as high resistance grounding (proven to reduce the frequency and severity of incidents).

In addition to appropriate PPE, consider working outside the hazard zone. One product we offer that allows taking readings outside the hazard area is the Fluke 233 Remote Display Multimeter.

The 233 is a rugged digital multimeter (DMM) that can be used just like any other DMM in the field. Yet, it also offers the ability to safely take readings while energizing and de-energizing equipment. How many times have you had to place a meter in a precarious— and possibly unsafe position—in order to observe the readout? The wireless technology greatly reduces these risks.

A common practice in the electrical field is for someone to hold the meter as the technician reaches inside the control panel or switchgear to place the test leads for the measurement. This “meter reader” then is exposed to virtually the same shock and arc-flash hazards as the individual placing the test leads. With the 233’s detachable head, this “meter reader” can now stand safely outside of the Flash Protection Boundary while recording readings. Another issue― the inconvenience of taking readings while dressed out for Hazard Risk CAT III or CAT IV―also finds a remedy By enabling the person observing the meter reading to stand outside of the boundaries stated above, protective clothing requirements can most likely be reduced to a lower Hazard Risk Category..