Interstate Launches Arc Flash Hazard Analysis Service

New England's premier provider of electrical construction, electrical services, network systems, design/build service, and building information modeling (BIM) is now offering Arc Flash Incident analysis to commercial customers.This service is designed to enable building owners to comply with new National Fire Protection Agency guidelines regarding proper arc flash warning labels for electrical equipment such as switchboards, panel boards, industrial control panels, meter socket enclosures and motor control centers.

Increased awareness of the hazards of arc flash and the increasing incidence of injury from it have prompted changes to the National Fire Protection Association code regarding proper labeling of electrical equipment where this type of event is likely to occur.As a result, insurance companies are beginning to demand that commercial facilities with this type of equipment conform to the labeling requirements.

In order to properly identify the hazard, Interstate’s professional engineers begin with a detailed one-line of the facility’s electric system.If such a diagram doesn’t exist, an Interstate electrician working with the facility manager will perform a site audit documenting the system; from incoming power through all of the branch circuit panels.Once the data is available, one of Interstate’s professional engineers analyzes the data to calculate available fault (short circuit) levels for each panel and switchboard.The resulting study will highlight relevant NFPA 70E Code references and depict fault magnitudes and hazard risk categories for each specific location and piece of electrical equipment.Custom warning labels are then created for each site and affixed to the appropriate piece of equipment.

The arc flash risk assessment provides companies with valuable safety information as it pertains to their major electrical system components.The warning labels serve as a visual reminder to those servicing the equipment that a hazard exists, and provides recommendations for protective clothing, equipment and working distances that can prevent serious injury or death.