Arc Flash Hazard Analysis

The National Fire Protection Association Guidelines (NFPA 70E) require facility owners to perform an arc flash hazard equipment.  The arc flash analysis identifies the presence and location of potential hazards and provides recommended analysis prior to allowing a worker to perform a task on energized endations for PPE, boundaries for limited, restricted and prohibited approaches, recommendations for flash protection and safe work practices.  To calculate incident energy, Faith Technologies, Inc. reviews available technical data and collects additional necessary data including equipment type, voltage, ratings, impedance, etc.  The safest option to conduct this analysis is to utilize an outside contractor trained in this procedure.  Faith's technical staff is "qualified" according to the new NEC definition and has undergone specific training in the hazards of working on energized equipment, and the use and proper application of PPE.

To provide accurate results, Faith Technologies, Inc. utilizes state-of-the-art software to perform the arc flash calculations and then compares both the NFPA and IEEE standards.  The software enables users to evaluate alternatives quickly and easily to establish an optimal design.

Arc Flash Hazard Labeling Plan 

Electrical inspectors are now enforcing the new labeling requirement published in the 2002 National Electrical Code (NEC 110.16) that states a warning label must be placed on electrical equipment that may remain energized during maintenance or repair.  We can assist with compliance during each phase of an arc flash hazard analysis.  In the initial phase, we supply the labels and assist in applying the appropriate warning labels and signs.  We can also provide updated labels to accommodate equipment, system or regulatory updates.

Site Review / Compliance Assessment 

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) is enforcing the NFPA 70E Guidelines.  To ensure compliance, we can determine the necessary steps to fulfill the more general statements in the OSHA standards.  We conduct a comprehensive assessment at your facility to identify areas of risk and non-compliance.  A plan is then formulated to bring your facility into compliance in the most efficient way possible.

Single Line Diagrams

NFPA 70E requirements mandate accurate, up-to-date single-line diagrams.  These documents are essential for documenting, troubleshooting, and communicating information about your power systems.  To meet these requirements, we can conduct a comprehensive site survey that is essential to develop or to update existing single-line diagrams or complete electrical system drawings.

Short Circuit and Coordination Studies  The Petroleum and Chemical Industry Committee (PCIC) recommends that Arc Flash calculations be completed in conjunction with short circuit calculations and protective device coordination to achieve the most accurate Arc Flash Hazard results.  Short circuit and coordination studies verify protective devices and arc hazard ratings, calculate momentary interrupting and relay currents, establish settings for all types of protective devices, and coordinate your entire power distribution system to minimize downtime. 

Preventive Maintenance 

We can assist in developing a preventive maintenance program to specifically address arc flash hazards.  Our optimized preventive maintenance program (called ESP) evaluates the equipment's condition and determines the most cost-effective and manageable solution to ensure your protective devices operate properly, safely, and reliably, eliminating prolonged exposure to arc flash which could result in disabling injuries or death.

Electrical Safety Program Review / Development

NFPA 70E requires every facility to establish an electrical safety program.  We can assist in reviewing or developing a comprehensive electrical safety program that supports an overall site safety program.  An effective program should include a certified training program, awareness of electrical hazards and self-discipline of employees.  It should identify hazard/risk evaluation procedures, electrically safe work procedures, tools and PPE, and electrical safety principles, particularly safety by design.  As part of the overall safety program, Faith Technologies can assist you in developing an effective safety audit process, creating and maintaining a safety manual, and planning and conducting safety meetings.

Training

An effective arc flash training program should provide workers the knowledge and understanding of the existence, nature, causes and methods to prevent electrical hazards.  Our training program includes arc flash awareness, standards and codes, understanding of arc flash quantities, selection and use of appropriate PPE, reading and following warning signs and labels, methods to reduce risk while working on live exposed parts, arc flash hazard assessment, and documentation.

Personal Protective Equipment Plan (PPE) 

Our PPE Plan addresses all OSHA standards regarding PPE to ensure compliance.  Based on the findings of the arc flash analysis, we will provide PPE category requirement and recommendations.  We can also assist in the selection and supply of recommended equipment on which workers will be trained.  Our team will address when the PPE is necessary and what equipment is needed.  Our approach covers how PPE should be worn, maintained, and disposed of after the equipment life has expired.

Optional Annual Re-certification

Ongoing arc flash hazard research and development will likely produce additions to arc flash requirements.  As modifications or expansions to your electrical distribution system are made or as changes occur in the electric utility system, it will be necessary to update arc flash assessment information on a regular basis.  It will also be necessary to retrain workers on an annual basis.  We can provide annual follow-up site visits to ensure continued compliance with applicable arc flash standards, practices, and regulations.  The site inspection includes a written report of findings and recommendations.

Documentation

Proper documentation ensures compliance with OSHA and NFPA standards and facilitates investigation should an arc flash related injury occur.  Documentation can also be provided as part of the safety program and documentation of training provided to workers.