subject: Arc Flash Clothing Is An Absolute Must [print this page] By now, we should all know the dangers of arc flash, and by we, I mean everyone who works with live electrical equipment. Arc flash explosions are a massive cause of injury, lifetime disability and death in the industry and however experienced an electrician or an engineer you think you are, you not only need to be aware of the dangers, you also need to protect yourself against them.
Although awareness of the dangers of arc flash incidents has started to spread, still too many workers are taking unnecessary risks while working with live equipment. Considering the potential injuries from arc flash, all measures should be taken to avoid an incident. Injuries including blindness, deafness, breathing problems, loss of limbs and severe injury through flying debris are common with bigger explosions.
The correct PPE, while no guarantee against injury, will severely increase the chances that workers will stay alive and potentially avoid more serious injury. Used in conjunction with the correct safety methods while working, PPE can make the difference when accidents do occur. De-energising equipment before starting work, employing the use of remote tools to check and maintain the equipment, and the correct labels and safety notices are just some of the things that can reduce the risks. Professional arc flash analysis can be outsourced if you have any major concerns with the equipment you will be working on.
It often falls on the safety manager to convince workers to wear the correct PPE, but it should be the responsibility of everyone working within the company to make sure that their co-workers are wearing the correct safety clothes. With the potential for arc flash to cause injury up to a 10 to 15 feet radius, you need to be aware that not only are you putting yourself in danger not working with the correct PPE, but those who are working with you.
For anyone that manages electrical workers, the cost of the correct safety measures and PPE is always going to be more cost effective than any accident that could occur by cutting corners. Damage to electrical equipment, downtime within the affected building and the payment of medical bills, insurance and potential damages brought against you for negligence is going to cost a lot more in the long run. Considering the fact that you will then have to invest in the proper precautions, it makes sense to invest in safety.
PPE is essential, but it should be used as a last line of defence against injury, rather than as a reason to get sloppy with safety processes. Next time youre working with the risk of arc flash; dont forget to wear the right kit.
