IIEE – Abu Dhabi Chapter

Arc Flash Training

By: Engr. Jonathan Santiago, PEE
 Course Agenda

Presentation Agenda:

► Introduction to Arc Flash

► Industry Standards & Regulations

► Shock & Arc Flash Risk Assessment

► Arc Flash Hazard Calculations

► Arc Flash Sample Computations

► Arc Flash Risk Controls

1 – 2 hours
Section 1

Introduction to
Arc Flash
 Introduction to Arc Flash

Topics:

► Electrical Hazards

► Shock Hazards

► Arc Flash Causes & Effects

► Definition of Terms

5 minutes
 Electrical Hazards

Types:

► Electrocution

► Fires

► Burns

► Shock

► Arc Flash

► Arc Blast
 Shock Hazards

Shock Hazards:
► Defined when body becomes part of the electrical circuit. In
contact with both wires, one wire and ground.
► Depends on current flow, time and general health
► Effects on human body

Current Reaction
> 5 mA Generally painful
> 5 mA Strong involuntary reactions
> 30 mA Breathing difficulty
50 – 100 mA Heart fibrillation
100 - 200 mA Death probable
> 200 mA Cardiac arrest; severe burns; death
 Arch Flash

Arc flash or arc blast is:

► The arc of high-amperage currents through the air.
►A discharge of high voltages across a gap between
conductors
► Arc flash (temperature rise, incident energy, UV)
► Arc blast (explosion)
► Fatalburns can occur at distances
over 3 m (10 ft).
► 80% of electrical accidents, fatalities involving qualified
workers caused by arc flash
 Causes

What causes an arc flash?

► Mechanical (accidental touching, dropped tools or metal

parts, improper installation practices)

► Environmental (dust, impurities, corrosion at contact

surfaces, failure of insulating materials)

► Electrical(Bridging electrical contacts with a conducting

object, loose connections, overloading)
 Arc Flash Conditions

Arc flash conditions:

► Working on an energized circuit

► Electrical equipment failure

 Arc Flash Hazards

Thermal radiation & Intense heat:

► Temperatures as high as 35,000°F (4 x
temp of sun)!, hot enough to vaporize metal.
Intense heat causes the sudden expansion
of air resulting in a blast.

Intense light:
► Electric arcs can create light that will
damage eyes and may cause cataracts
years later.
Sound waves:
► Noise levels that can cause temporary or
permanent loss of hearing.
 Arc Flash Hazards

Pressure wave blast:

► Pressure waves that will throw a person
away from the blast into walls and other
equipment or off ladders and platforms.
► May result in memory loss due to
concussion
Projectiles:
► Molten pieces of metal, vapors and
shrapnel that can penetrate flame retardant
clothing.
► May propel objects over
great distances
Arch Flash Hazards

Thermal
Impact
145oF - Curable Burn

< 740 mph 205oF - Cell Death

IR
700oF – Clothing
Ignition

Visible 1,400oF – Burning

165 db
15000 °C Clothing

1,800oF – Metal
UV Droplets

1000 °C 9,000oF – Surface

of the Sun

2000 psf 50 cal/cm2

 Arc Flash Risk Assessment

Arc Flash Risk Assessment:

► Measures incident energy that may strike an employee

► Determines the arc flash protection boundary

► Establishes
the personal protective
equipment necessary

► Helpscreate practices to accomplish

the desired work
 Working Distance

The working distance:

► Typicalworking distance is the sum of the distance

between the worker standing in front of the equipment,
and from the front of the equipment to the potential arc
source inside the equipment.

► Common distance is 18 inches

► Incidentenergy can be used to

select protective equipment
 Incident Energy

Incident energy:

► The amount of thermal energy impressed on a

surface, a certain distance from the source,
generated during an electrical arc event.

► Measured in Calories per square centimeter,

cal/cm2 or Joules per square centimeter, J/cm2

► 2nd degree burn of human

skin is at 1.2 cal/cm2
(5 J/cm2 )
 Arc Flash Boundary

The Arc Flash Protection Boundary is

the distance from which a person could
receive a second degree burn
Section 2

Industry
Standards &
Regulations
 Industry Standards & Regulations

Topics:

► History

► OSHA

► NEC

► NFPA 70E

► IEEE 1584

15 minutes
 Historical Development of AF Standards
1970 1980 1990 2000
Events Leading to Regulations & Standards Addressing the Arc Flash Hazard

1970 - Occupational 1987 - RALPH LEE 1997 - RICHARD 2000 - RICHARD DOUGHTY et. al
Safety & Health Act “Pressures developed DOUGHTY et. al “Predicting Incident Energy to Better

Arc Flash Research

from Arcs" “Testing Update on Manage the Electric Arc Hazard on
NEC used for the Protective Clothing 600 V Power Distribution Systems"
basis of OSHA Established the curable and Equipment for
Regulations burn threshold for human Electric Arc
body as 1.2 cal/cm2 Exposure" 2000 - JONES et. al 2002 – IEEE
“Staged Tests to Standard
1970 - NEC Increase Awareness
1982 - RALPH LEE 1584: IEEE
Based OSHA
“The Other Electrical of Arc-Flash Hazards Guide for
Hazards: Electric Arc in Electrical Performing
NEC does not Blast Burns" Equipment" Arc-Flash
address worker Hazard
safety, new Calculations
standard needed Minor Changes
1988 – NFPA 1991 – OSHA 2000 – NFPA 70E
70E 4th Ed. Subpart S 6th Ed. (Part IV)
1976 – NFPA 70E
Committee Arc Flash - Safety
Formed Added Requirements for
Special Equipment

Safety-Related - Arc Flash

1983 – NFPA Maintenance Requirements Expanded
1995 – NFPA
70E Part III Requirements 70E 5th Ed.
2004 – NFPA
1979 – NFPA Arc Flash 70E 7th Ed.
70E Part I Hazard, PPE
Requirements NFPA 70E – Standard
Installation Safety-Related & Limit of for Electrical Safety
Safety
1981 – NFPA
Work Practices Approach in the Workplace
Requirements 70E Part II
 Historical Development of AF Standards
2000 2006 2007 2012 2014 2015 2018
Arc Flash Research

2002 – NEC 2011 - AF Testing & Testing Data Model for

IEEE & NFPA Collaborative Effort Development of Definitive Industry Standard

Requires Arc Hazards Exists at Model & Prelim 601V – 15kV

IEEE/NFPA Arc Flash Research

Flash Hazard 4000A @ 240V Development Model
Warning Labels 5000A @ 208V Released

Tests Conducted IEEE to Testing 2 x Cals Iarc

2002 – IEEE 1584
at 600V, 2400V, blackbox the Confirm HCB Average
4160V, 13800V models Worst Case Reduced %
@ Vn
2004 – NFPA 70E
Increase Bus
Tests Shows that Gap Range
Light Emissions Variable
2004 – Stokes & are 150x looking Cubicle Size
Sweeting “Electric at Sun PPE
Arcing Burn Hazards” Effects
Electric Arc Research

2015 – NFPA 2018 – NFPA

2005 – Wilkins, 2009 – NFPA 2012 – NFPA
70E 10th Ed. 70E 11th Ed.
Allison & Lang - 70E 8th Ed. 70E 9th Ed.
“Effect of Electrode - Hazard Risk
Orientation in Arc- -Scrapped Part I - New Shock Category to Arc
Flash Testing” (Installation) Protection Flash PPE Cat.
-Informative Annexes Boundary - Hazard Analysis to
Added (A-O) - Hazard/Risk Risk Assessment
Table - AF Boundary
2006 – Wilkins, -Incident Energy Distance
Calculation for - Revised Equipment
Allison & Lang –
DC Systems Labelling
“Effect of Insulating - Arc Flash Risk
Barriers in Arc-Flash Assessment to be
Testing” reviewed
periodically
 OSHA
Occupational Safety and Health Administration:
► Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
was created in 1971.
► OSHA regulations are written under Title 29 of the Code of
Federal Regulations.
OSHA Regulatory Standards:
► 29 CFR 1910.333
– Live electrical parts that an employee may be exposed
shall be de-energized unless additional or greater
hazards are introduced.
► 29 CFR 1910.335
– Employees working in areas where potential electrical
hazards exist shall be provided with and shall use
personal protective equipment.
 NEC

National Electrical Code 2017 Edition:

► Article 110.16 Arc Flash Hazard Warning
 (A) General
 (B) Service Equipment (>1200A)
• Nominal System Voltage
• Available fault current at the
service o/c protection devices
• Clearing time of service equipment
o/c protection devices based on
available fault current at the
service equipment.
• Date label was applied
 NFPA 70E
Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace:
► Developed as a complementary document to the OSHA
regulations.
► Three main sections
 I. Safety-Related Work Practices

 II. Safety-Related Maintenance Requirements

 III. Safety Requirements for Special Equipment
► Arc flash is covered in the following section:
 Article 130 – Work Involving Electrical Hazards
 Informative Annex D - Incident Energy and Arc Flash
Boundary Calculation Methods
 Informative Annex H - Guidance on Selection of
Protective Clothing and Other Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE)
 NFPA 70E 2000 , 2004, 2009 , 2012 , 2015, 2018

NFPA 70E Latest Edition Changes

► Article 100 – new added definitions such
as Electrical Safety Program, Fault Current,
Fault Current Available, Maintenance Condition
of, Working Distance.
► Article 105: Application of Safety-Related
Work Practices and Procedures. – Employer
and Employee Responsibility, Priority
► Article 110: Electrical Safety Program –
Inspection, Job Safety Planning, Incident
Investigation, Auditing, Lockout/Tagout
Program and Procedure Audit.
► Article 120: Lackout/Tagout Program,
Principles, Equipment, Procedures
 NFPA SCOPE
► NFPA 70E describe how to protect electrical
workers from three kinds of electrical
hazards:
 Electric shock and electrocution
 Arc-flash (electrical fireball)
 Arc-blast (electrical explosion at high
energy levels)
► NFPA 70E outlines a four step
approach/strategy to electrical safety:
 TURN OFF THE POWER
 LIVE WORK PERMIT
 PLAN THE WORK.
 USE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE
 IEEE 1584 - 2002

IEEE Standard 1584 – 2002 Guide for

Performing Arc Flash Calculation:
► Empirical formulas, derived from tests that
can be used for 3Ø power systems up to
15,000 V , for short circuit currents between
700 and 106,000 A .
► Generally, no need for calculation on
systems rated at 50 volts or less and on
systems rated 240 volt and less that are
derived from transformers rated less than
125 kVA.
► Empirical equations to calculate Arcing
Fault, Incident Energy and Arc Flash
Boundary.
 NEC vs NFPA 70E vs OSHA

ELECTRICAL SAFETY
NEC (Design & Installation) OSHA (Workplace Safety)
Electrical Safety Program

Practices Training Analysis

OSHA / NFPA 70E IEEE 1584

- Product standards &

specifications
- Safety of electrical installations
- Adopted for regulatory use
- Enforced by inspectors
- Electrical safety in workplace
NFPA 70B (Maintenance) - Enforced by OSHA
Section 3

Shock & Arc Flash

Risk Assessment
 Shock & Arc Flash Risk Assessment

Topics:

► Shock Risk Assessment

► Shock Protection Boundaries

► Shock Protective Measures

► Arc Flash Risk Assessment

► Arc Flash Risk Assessment

Procedure

► Arc Flash Risk Assessment

Components 10 minutes
 Shock Risk Assessment (Art. 130.4)

Shock Risk Assessment

► to determine the voltage to which personnel will be
exposed, the boundary requirements, and the PPE
necessary in order to minimize the possibility of electric
shock to personnel
Shock Protection Boundaries (Limit of Approach, Annex C)
► Limited Approach Boundary
– approach limit at a distance from an exposed energized
electrical circuit within which a shock hazard exist
► Restricted Approach Boundary
– approach limit at a distance from an exposed energized
electrical circuit within which there’s an increased
likelihood of electric shock, due to electric arc-over, for
personnel working in close proximity
 Shock Protection Boundaries
Unqualified Unqualified person No unqualified person

Restricted Approach Boundary

person allowed + Arc-rated allowed!
Limited Approach Boundary

PPE + Awareness
Qualified person +
& Continuously Competent for work
escorted by a task + EEWP (if
qualified person required) + Risk
Qualified person + assessment procedure
Competent for work + Arc Flash & Shock
task + Arc-rated PPE + risk assessment +
Risk assessment Shock PPE tools &
procedure + Shock equipment suitable for
risk assessment the work task
Limited Space Restricted Space

System Limited Approach Boundary Restricted Approach Exposed Energized

Voltage Boundary Electrical Equipment
Movable Fixed
<50 V Not specified Not specified Not specified

50 – 150 3 m (10 ft.) 1 m (3.5 ft.) Avoid contact Table 130.4(D)(a)

Shock Protection
151 – 750 3 m (10 ft.) 1 m (3.5 ft.) 0.3 m (1 ft.) Boundaries for AC
751 – 15k 3 m (10 ft.) 1.5 m (5 ft.) 0.7 m (2 ft 2 in.)
Table 130.4(D)(b)
15.1 – 36k 3 m (10 ft.) 1.8 m (6 ft.) 0.8 m (2 ft 7 in.) Shock Protection
1.0 m (3 ft 3 in.) Boundaries for DC
46.1–72.5k 3 m (10 ft.) 2.5 m (8 ft. )
Shock Protective Measures

GUARDING / ENCLOSURE EARTHING & BONDING

INSULATED TOOLS CIRCUIT PROTECTION LOTO

 Arc Flash Risk Assessment (Art. 130.5 )
► to identify arc flash hazards
► to estimate the likelihood of occurrence of injury or damage
to health and potential severity of injury or damage to health
– design of the electrical equipment, including its OPD and
its operating time
– electrical equipment operating condition and condition of
maintenance
► to determine if additional protective measures are required
including the use of PPE
– appropriate safety-related work practices
– arc flash boundary
– PPE to be used within the AFB
 Arc Flash Risk Assessment Procedure
► Identify hazards NFPA 70E Table 130.5(C)
► Assess risks (To be discussed in more details in Section 4)
► Implement risk control according to the hierarchy of risk
control methods (To be discussed in more details in Section 6)
– Elimination Most effective methods to
– Substitution reduce risk
(applied at the source)
– Engineering controls
– Awareness
Least effective
– Administrative controls methods to reduce
– PPE risk (affected by
human error)

Remember: PPE is the last line of defense!

 Arc Flash Risk Assessment Deliverables

AFRA Results and study methodology

► Arc flash boundary
► NFPA 70E Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) and
Table 130.7(C)(15)(b)
► Informative Annex D (IEEE 1584 method)
► Protective Clothing and other PPE
► Incident energy analysis method
– Informative Annex D (IEEE 1584)
– NFPA 70E Table 130.5(G)
► Arc Flash PPE Category Method
– NFPA 70E Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) & (b)
► Equipment Labeling

► NFPA 70E Art. 130.7(H)

 Arc Flash Risk Assessment Methods

1. Incident Energy Analysis Method

IEEE Std. 1584 – 2002 Calculate:

Guide for Performing Arc - Incident Energy Level
Flash Calculations - Arc Flash Boundary

NFPA 70E 2018

Selection of Arc-Rated Determine:
Clothing and other PPE - Min. Arc-rated Clothing
Table 130.5(G) - Additional PPE Required

Note: Formerly Informative Annex H,

Table H.3(b) NFPA 70E 2015 Edition
 Arc Flash Risk Assessment Methods

2. Arc Flash PPE Category Method

Lookup:
NFPA 70E
- Task & Equipment Condition
Estimate of the likelihood of
1. Is there a likelihood of
Occurrence of an AF incident
occurrence of an Arc Flash?
Table 130.5(C)
Yes/No

NFPA 70E Lookup:

Arc Flash PPE Categories - Equipment Type
Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) and - Arc Flash PPE Category
Table 130.7(C)(15)(b) - Arc Flash Boundary

NFPA 70E Determine:

Personal Protective - Minimum Arc-rated Clothing
Equipment (PPE) - Additional PPE Required
Table 130.7(C)(15)(c)
Section 4

Arc Flash Hazard

Calculations
 Arc Flash Calculation Methods

Topics:

► NFPA 70E Protection Boundaries

► IEEE Std. 1584 - 2002

► NFPA 70E Tables

► Practical Steps to Arc Flash

Calculations

► Equipment Labelling

30 minutes
 NFPA 70E Protection Boundaries
Exposed
Energized
Arc Flash Boundary
Electrical
Equipment

Restricted Approach
Boundary

Limited Approach
Boundary
 IEEE 1584 Method
Steps in Arc Flash Calculation using IEEE 1584 Method:
1. Estimate of Arcing Current

2. Estimate of Normalized Incident Energy

3. Estimate of Adjusted Incident Energy

4. Arc Flash Boundary

Applicable Conditions for Use of the IEEE 1584 Method:

Parameter
System voltage (kV)
Frequencies (Hz)
Bolted fault current (kA)
Gap between electrodes (mm)
Equipment enclosure type
Grounding type
Types of faults
Applicable Range
0.208 to 15 kV
50 or 60 Hz
0.7 to 106 kA
13 to 152 mm
Open air, box, MCC, panel, switchgear, cables
Ungrounded, grounded, high resistance grounded
3 phase faults ONLY
 IEEE 1584 Method

1. Estimate of Arcing Current

► for low voltage system (<1kV), arc current is given by the equation

► for medium voltage system (>1kV),

 IEEE 1584 Method
Factors for Equipment & Voltage Classes

► Typical bus gaps (G) and working distances (D)

Classes of Equipment Bus gaps (mm) Working Distance (mm)

15kV Switchgear 152 910

5kV Switchgear 104 910
Low Voltage Switchgear 32 610
Low Voltage MCCs & Panelboards 25 455
Cable 13 455

► Distance exponents (x)

Enclosure Type 0.208 to 1kV >1 to 15kV

Open Air 2 2
Switchgear 1.473 0.973
MCC & Panels 1.641
Cable 2 2
 IEEE 1584 Method

2. Estimate of Normalized Incident Energy

► the normalized incident energy based on 0.2 second arc duration and
610 mm distance from the arc, is given by the equation:
 IEEE 1584 Method

3. Estimate of Adjusted Incident Energy

► the normalized incident energy is used to obtain the estimated incident
energy at a normal surface at a given distance and arcing time,
 IEEE 1584 Method

4. Arc Flash Boundary

► the distance at which a person without PPE may get a second degree
burn that is curable,
 Arc Flash PPE Selection
Incident Energy Analysis Method

► Table 130.5(G) Selection of Arc Rated Clothing and other PPE when
Incident Energy Analysis Method is used

• Selection
Incident of Arc-Rated
energy exposures equal Clothing and up
to 1.2 cal/cm² other PPE
to 12 cal/cm²

Arc-rated clothing with an arc rating

• equal 130.5(G)
Table to or greater than the estimated incident
energy
Long sleeve shirt and pants or coverall or arc flash suit (SR)
Arc-rated face shield and arc-rated balaclava or arc flash suit (SR)
Arc-rated outerwear (e.g. jacket, parka, rainwear, hard hat liner) (AN)
Heavy-duty leather gloves, arc-rated gloves, or rubber insulating gloves with leather
protectors (SR)
Hard hat
Safety glasses or safety goggles (SR)
Hearing protection
Leather footwear
AN: As needed (optional), SR: Selection required
 Arc Flash PPE Selection
Incident Energy Analysis Method (continued...)

► Table 130.5(G) Selection of Arc Rated Clothing and other PPE when
Incident Energy Analysis Method is used

• Selection
Incident of Arc-Rated
energy exposuresClothing and12other
greater than PPE
cal/cm²

Arc-rated clothing with an arc rating

• equal 130.5(G)
Table to or greater than the estimated incident
energy
Long sleeve shirt and pants or coverall or arc flash suit (SR)
Arc-rated arc flash suit hood
Arc-rated outerwear (e.g. jacket, parka, rainwear, hard hat liner) (AN)
Arc-rated gloves, or rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors (SR)
Hard hat
Safety glasses or safety goggles (SR)
Hearing protection
Leather footwear

AN: As needed (optional), SR: Selection required

 NFPA 70E Table Method
Arc Flash Boundary

► Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) Arc-Flash PPE Categories for Alternating

Current (ac) Systems
Arc Flash PPE Arc-Flash
Equipment
Category Boundary
Panelboards or other equipment rated 240 V and below.
Parameters: Maximum of 25 kA short-circuit current 485 mm
available; maximum of 0.03 sec (2 cycles) fault clearing
1
(19 in.)
time; working distance 455 mm (18 in.)
Panelboards or other equipment rated >240 V and up to
900 mm
600 V 2
Parameters: same as above (3 ft.)
600-V class motor control centers (MCCs)
Parameters: Maximum of 65 kA short-circuit current 1.5 m
available; maximum of 0.03 sec (2 cycles) fault clearing
2
(5 ft.)
time; working distance 455 mm (18 in.)
600-V class motor control centers (MCCs)
Parameters: Maximum of 42 kA short-circuit current 4.3 m
available; maximum of 0.33 sec (20 cycles) fault clearing
4
(14 ft.)
time; working distance 455 mm (18 in.)
 NFPA 70E Table Method

Arc Flash PPE Arc-Flash

Equipment
Category Boundary
600-V class switchgear (with power circuit breakers or
fused switches) and 600 V class switchboards
6m
Parameters: Maximum of 35 kA short-circuit current 4
available; maximum of up to 0.5 sec (30 cycles) fault (20 ft.)
clearing time; working distance 455 mm (18 in.)
Other 600-V class (277 V through 600 V, nominal)
equipment
1.5 m
Parameters: Maximum of 65 kA short circuit current 2
available; maximum of 0.03 sec (2 cycles) fault clearing (5 ft.)
time; working distance 455 mm (18 in.)
NEMA E2 (fused contactor) motor starters, 2.3kV to 7.2kV
Parameters: Maximum of 35 kA short-circuit current 12 m
available; maximum of up to 0.24 sec (15 cycles) fault
4
(40 ft.)
clearing time; working distance 910 mm (36 in.)
Metal-clad switchgear, 1 kV through 15 kV 12 m
Parameters: Same as above 4
(40 ft.)
Other equipment 1 kV through 15 kV
Parameters: Maximum of 35 kA short-circuit current 12 m
available; maximum of up to 0.24 sec (15 cycles) fault
4
(40 ft.)
clearing time; working distance 910 mm (36 in.)
 NFPA 70E Table Method
Personal Protective Equipment - Table 130.7(C)(15)(c)
 NFPA 70E Table Method
Personal Protective Equipment - Table 130.7(C)(15)(c)
 Practical Steps for Arc Flash Calculation

1. Identify Locations

2. Data Gathering

3. System Modeling (SLD)

4. Short Circuit Study

5. Protective Device
Coordination Study

6. Arc Flash Hazard Analysis

7. Written Reports

8. Labels
 Practical Steps for Arc Flash Calculation
3 Phase Bolted
Obtain Equipment Fault Current
Short Circuit
Nameplate Data &
Fault Study
Settings

Arcing Fault Current

Arc Flash
Device Study
Operating Time
Coordination
IEEE NFPA
(PDC) Study
1584 70E

Calculate:
- Incident
Energy Level Determine:
- Arc Flash - Min. Arc-rated
Boundary Clothing
- Additional PPE
Required
 Practical Steps for Arc Flash Calculation
Step 1: Identify All Locations and Equipment for Arc Flash Risk
Assessment
► Arc flash risk assessment is needed only for those locations where
workers are exposed to the risk.
► Panels and switchboards rated 208V or less can generally be ignored
if the service transformer is less than 125kVA. (IEEE 1584 – 2002
recommendations)

Step 2: Collect Data

► Equipment Data for Short Circuit Analysis
– Equipment type, Voltage, MVA/kVA, Impedance, X/R ratio, phases
► Equipment Data For Protective Device Characteristics
– Relay: Type, CT ratio, pickup (tap) setting, delay type (curve) and
setting (time dial)
– Fuse: Type, amp rating, voltage, peak let-through current.
– Breaker: Type, fault clearing time, pickup setting, delay curve, delay
setting
 Practical Steps for Arc Flash Calculation
Step 2: Collect Data (continued...)
► Equipment Data For Arc Flash Study
– Type of enclosure (open air, box, etc.), Gap between exposed
conductors*, Grounding type*, Phases/Connection, Working distance
► Determine All Possible Operating Conditions
– possible connections (system operating modes), parallel feeds,
motor contributions

Step 3: Prepare a One-line Diagram of the System

► One-line (single-line) diagrams are powerful tools for documenting and
communicating

Step 4: Perform a Short Circuit Study

► Only 3-phase faults are considered when performing arc flash hazard
analysis as recommended by IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E.
► 3-phase faults generally give the highest possible short circuit energy
and represents a worst case.
 Practical Steps for Arc Flash Calculation
Step 5: Determine Expected Arc Current
► Calculate arc current for every required equipment or bus using one of
the empirical formulas
► Consider a range of arc current
– Calculate the arcing current at 100%
– Calculate the arcing current at 85%
Step 6: Estimate Arcing Time
► Estimate arcing time from the protective device characteristics and the
contributing arc current passing through this device for every branch
that significantly contributes to the arc fault.
► The trip time of a protective device is obtained from its time-current
characteristics (TCC)

Step 7: Estimate Incident Energy

► The incident energy is a function of the arc current, arcing time, the
enclosure type, the distance from the arc, and the gap between
electrodes.
 Practical Steps for Arc Flash Calculation
Step 8: Determine the Arc Flash Boundary
► The arc flash boundary is the distance at which persons exposed to arc
flash, without appropriate PPE, will obtain second degree burns that are
curable.
► The arc flash boundary is a function of the arc flash incident energy.
Step 9: Document the Arc Flash Risk Assessment
► The assessment report should include the following details:
– Name of person performing the assessment.
– Date of assessment.
– All data collected and used in the assessment, including protective
device settings.
– Assumptions used in the absence of data.
– Method of risk assessment used the standard and the revision year.
– Incident energy and arc flash boundary results for every equipment.
► Arc Flash Labelling
– Arc flash labels are to be placed on equipment to provide warning.
 Equipment Labeling
NFPA 70E Art.130.5(H) Equipment Labeling / NEC Art.110.16
(Arc Flash Hazard Warning)
► Electrical equipment such as switchboards, panelboard, industrial
control panels, meter socket enclosures, and motor control centers that
are in other dwelling units that are likely to require examination,
adjustment, servicing or maintenance while energized shall be field
marked with a label containing all the following information:
(1) Nominal System Voltage
(2) Arc Flash Boundary
(3) At least one of the following
a. Available incident energy and the corresponding working
distance or the arc flash PPE category in Table
130.7(C)(15)(a) for the equipment but not both
OR b. Minimum arc rating of clothing
OR c. Site specific level of PPE
 Equipment Labeling
NFPA 70E Art.130.5(H) Equipment Labeling / NEC Art.110.16
(Arc Flash Hazard Warning)
► The method of calculating and the data to support the information for
the label shall be documented. The data shall be reviewed for
accuracy at intervals not to exceed 5 years. Where the review of the
data identifies a change that renders the label inaccurate, the label
shall be updated.
► Other label elements may include shock protection information, such
as Limited and Restricted Approach Boundaries.
► It’s also common practice to include the date of the last arc flash risk
assessment and the equipment identification.
► Warning / Danger Header based on ANSI Z535.4. Many facilities use
“Warning” where energized work is permitted with appropriate
precautions, and “Danger” where sufficient PPE is not available.
 Equipment Labeling
NFPA 70E Art. 130.5 (H):
(1) Nominal System

WARNING
Voltage
(2) Arc Flash Boundary
(3) Protective
ARC FLASH & SHOCK HAZARD Equipment
APPROPRIATE PPE REQUIRED  Arc Flash PPE
ARC FLASH HAZARD PROTECTION Incident
Minimum
Arc Flash
Arc Energy
Arc
PPE
Flash PPE at 18of
Rating in.Clothing:
Category:
Category: 11
Category
NominalSystem
SystemVoltage:
Voltage: 240 VAC
working
4 cal/cm²distance: 3 cal/cm²  Available Incident
Nominal 240 VAC
Arc-rated
Arc-rated long-sleeve
long-sleeve shirt
shirt and
and pants
pants Energy at a
or arc-rated coverall
or arc-rated coverall
Arc
ArcFlash
FlashBoundary:
Boundary: 19in.
19 in.
Arc-rated face shield or arc flash suit
Working Distance
240 VAC Shock Hazard When Cover is hood
hood  Minimum Arc Rating
Removed Arc-rated
Arc-rated jacket,
jacket, parka,
parka, rainwear,
rainwear, or
or of Clothing
hard
hard hat
hat liner(AN)
liner (AN)
Hard
 Site Specific Level of
SHOCK HAZARD PROTECTION Hard hat
hat
SR)
Safety glasses or safety goggles (SR)
PPE
Limited
LimitedApproach
ApproachBoundary: 3 ft.4in
Boundary: 3ft. 4 in.
Other Label Elements:
Restricted Hearing protection (ear canal inserts)
RestrictedApproach
ApproachBoundary:
Boundary: 1 ft.
1ft  Warning / Danger
Heavy duty leather gloves
Header
Leather footwear
 Shock Boundaries
Limited / Restricted
EquipmentName:
Equipment Name:SMDB-STORE
SMDB-STORE A2 Date
Date of
of Risk
Risk Assessment:
Assessment: 5/14/2018
5/14/2018  Date of Arc Flash
Risk Assessment
 Equipment Name
 Equipment Labeling

PANEL PANELBOARD DRY TYPE TRANSFORMERS MCC

*Clear demarcation line for section labeling

SWITCHGEAR / SWITCHBOARD FEEDER BUS DUCT

 Equipment Labeling
Do’s of Arc Flash Labeling
► Do label “WORST” case energy or PPE category. Consider all possible
modes of operation.
► Do label per ANSI Z535.4
► Do label using only one color, Orange for Warning or Red for Danger.
► Do standardize on only one working distance – preferably 18 inches for all
labels in a facility.
► Manage down PPE categories or incident energy analysis using work
permits stating increased distances based on work task and proper safety
procedures.
► Label to warn of potential danger, not for the purpose of working on the
equipment.
► Do use common sense in your hazard labeling.
► Do implement NFPA 70E Article 130.1 work permit requirements for all
energized work even if a label is present.
 Equipment Labeling
Don’ts of Arc Flash Labeling
► Do not label each MCC bucket, breaker/fuse cubicle, or plug-in (busway).
► Do not label using colors for PPE category or incident energy.
► Don’t label with multiple distances or PPE categories on the same
equipment.
► Don’t make it complicated.
► Don’t substitute labeling for NFPA 70E Article 130.2 work permit
requirements.
Section 5

Arc Flash Sample

Computations
 Arc Flash Sample Computations

Topics:

► Arc Flash PPE Category Method

► Incident Energy Analysis Method

15 minutes
 Arc Flash PPE Category Method
Category Method Example 1 – 2 – 3

Task:
Operation of a circuit
breaker, switch,
contactor or starter.
Condition: Normal

NFPA 70E Table 130.5(C)

NO likelihood of
occurrence of an
Arc Flash Incident
 Arc Flash PPE Category Method
Category Method Example – Step 1
Estimate the likelihood of occurrence of an Arc Flash
Task: For ac systems, work
on energized electrical
conductors and circuit parts,
including voltage testing

NFPA 70E Table 130.5(C) :

YES
 Arc Flash PPE Category Method
Category Method Example – Step 2
Lookup NFPA 70E 2018 Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) – AC

Arc Flash PPE Category: 1

Arc Flash Boundary: 485 mm (19 in.)
 Arc Flash PPE Category Method
Category Method Example – Step 3
Determine appropriate PPE using NFPA 70E 2018
Table 130.7(C)(15)(a)
 Arc Flash PPE Category Method
Equipment Labeling

WARNING
ARC FLASH & SHOCK HAZARD
APPROPRIATE PPE REQUIRED
ARC FLASH HAZARD PROTECTION
Arc Flash PPE Category: 1
Nominal System Voltage: 240 VAC
Arc-rated long-sleeve shirt and pants
Arc Flash Boundary: 19 in. or arc-rated coverall
Arc-rated face shield or arc flash suit
240 VAC Shock Hazard When Cover is hood
Removed Arc-rated jacket, parka, rainwear, or
hard hat liner (AN)
SHOCK HAZARD PROTECTION Hard hat

Limited Approach Boundary: 3 ft. 6 in. Safety glasses or safety goggles (SR)

Restricted Approach Boundary: 1 ft. Hearing protection (ear canal inserts)

Heavy duty leather gloves
Leather footwear

Equipment Name: SMDB-STORE A2 Date of Risk Assessment: 5/14/2018

 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Short Circuit Study Single Line Diagram
FAHU-1 SPF-1 SPF-2 LPF-1 CPF-1 CPEF-1 GEF-1

WATER P.CH. P.CH. P.CH.

TRANSFER CIRC. JOCKEY W.P-2 W.P-3
BEF-1 BEF-2 SPF-1 CPF-1 W.P-1
BFAF-1 BFAF-2 PUMP PUMP PUMP FAHU-1 SPF-2 LPF-1 CPEF-1 GEF-1
P1 P2 P3

MCC-B1 FAULT 3 CAR CAR MCC-R

LIFT-1 LIFT-2 LIFT-1 LIFT-2
DPEB-1 DLEB-1 DB-SE1
PRESSUR. FILTRATION BOOSTER
DB-F1 DB-F2 DB-F3 DB-F4 DB-R01 DB-R02 DB-R UNIT PUMP PUMP
63A FAULT 2
TP
MCB

SMDB-GE 320A, TPN+E, 0.415kV BUS

SMDB-T1 SMDB-R MCC-R1

SMDB-T2 SMDB-T3 SMDB-T4 SMDB-T5 SMDB-T6 SMDB-T7
ATS

320A
TP
FAULT 1
MCCB

MDB 2500A, TPN+E 0.415kV BUS

2500A
4P
ACB

SMDB-SH SMDB-M 1500kVA

11/0.415kV

F.F.C.P
CHILLER-1 CHILLER-2

SUB. CU- CU- CU-G DB-M1 DB-M2 DB-M3DB-M4

G M
PUMP SH02 SH01 STANDBY CAPACITOR
11kV BUS FIRE PUMP BANK
GENERATOR
250kVA 300kVAR

Ref. No. F1 @ MDB F2 @ SMDB-GE F3 @ DB-SE1

Three Phase Fault, I3Ø 34.27 kA 21.49 kA 3.60 kA

 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Factors for Equipment & Voltage Classes

► Typical bus gaps (G) and working distances (D)

Classes of Equipment Bus gaps (mm) Working Distance (mm)

15kV Switchgear 152 910

5kV Switchgear 104 910
Low Voltage Switchgear 32 610
Low Voltage MCCs & Panelboards 25 455
Cable 13 455

► Distance exponents (x)

Enclosure Type 0.208 to 1kV >1 to 15kV

Open Air 2 2
Switchgear 1.473 0.973
MCC & Panels 1.641
Cable 2 2
 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Step 1: Estimate Arcing Current

34.27 1.01611
0.415 0.04009
32 0.01683
.415 34.27 0.35595
.415 1.53491
32 34.27
0.14932
32 1.53491
0.09700
1.18266
15.23
 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Step 2: Estimate Normalized Incident Energy

15.23 1.27862
32 0.03520
0.55500

0.11300
0.64582
4.42 cal/cm²
 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Arcing time based on range of arcing current
1,000.00

2500A Air
100.00 Circuit Breaker

10.00
(Seconds)
Time

1.00

tA = 0.06 seconds IB = 34.27kA

0.10

0.01

IA = 12.95kA (85%) IA = 15.23kA (100%)

0.00
10 100 1,000 10,000 100,000 1,000,000
Current Referred to a 415-Volts Base Voltage(Amperes)
2500 AT, ACB 2500 AT Arc Fault 1 (100%)
Arc Fault 1 (85%) Clearing Time 1 Bolted 3Phase Fault

*Accurate protective device clearing times are essential for providing correct
incident energy calculations and the resulting AF boundaries.
 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Step 3: Estimate Adjusted Incident Energy

1.473
610 610 1
0.06 0.30
1.5 4.42 6.63
1.99
8.32

* Use the highest of the incident energies to select PPE.

 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Step 4: Determine Arc Flash Boundary

1.473
610 12,670.42 5 J/cm² 2,534.08
0.06 0.30
1.5 4.42 27.74
21,088.55
21,088.55 862
34
 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Arc Flash PPE Selection using NFPA 70E Table
 Incident Energy Analysis Method
Equipment Labeling
WARNING
ARC FLASH & SHOCK HAZARD
APPROPRIATE PPE REQUIRED
ARC FLASH HAZARD PROTECTION
Nominal System Voltage: 415 VAC
Arc Flash Boundary: 34 in.
415 VAC Shock Hazard When Cover is
Removed
SHOCK HAZARD PROTECTION
Limited Approach Boundary: 3 ft. 6 in.
Restricted Approach Boundary: 1 ft.
Equipment Name: MDB
Incident Energy Level : 4.42 cal/cm²
At a Working Distance : 24 in.
Arc-rated clothing with an arc rating
equal to or greater than the estimated
incident energy
Long sleeve shirt and pants or
coverall or arc flash suit (SR)
Arc-rated face shield and arc-rated
balaclava or arc flash suit (SR)
Arc-rated outerwear (e.g. jacket,
parka, rainwear, hard hat liner) (AN)
Heavy-duty leather gloves, arc-rated
gloves, or rubber insulating gloves
with leather protectors (SR)
Hard hat
Safety glasses or safety goggles (SR)
Hearing protection
Leather footwear
Date of Risk Assessment: 5/14/2018
Section 6

Arc Flash
Risk Control
 Arc Flash Risk Control

Topics:

► Technical Controls

► Behavioral Controls

5 minutes
 Technical Controls
Elimination
► Safety by design is the most effective approach in minimizing electrical
hazards while improving system reliability

Substitution
► Methods involves substituting an alternative component or piece of
equipment that would reduce the severity or likelihood of exposure to the
hazard.
– Arc-resistant equipment
– High resistance grounding
– Current limiting devices
Engineering Controls
► Changing the work environment or equipment to separate workers from the
hazard.
– Temporary device settings (faster clearing time)
– Remote operation (increase work distance)
 Technical Controls
Substitution (Reducing Available Fault Current)

HIGH RESISTANCE GROUNDING CURRENT LIMITING DEVICES

ARC RESISTANT EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SELECTOR SWITCH

 Technical Controls
Engineering Controls (Improving OCPD Coordination Setting)

Fault clears in
8 seconds
Incident
energy = 718
cal/cm²
No PPE for IE
values this
high

Fault clears in
0.1 second
Incident
energy = 0.97
cal/cm²
 Technical Controls
Engineering Controls (Remote Operation)

REMOTE RACKING/SWITCHING DASHBOARD / ONLINE MONITORING

INTEGRAL RACKING – INFRARED SCANNING / THERMAL IMAGING

MOTORIZED REMOTE RACKING WINDOWS FOR MV/LV ASSEMBLIES
 Behavioral Controls
Awareness
► Providing the information that workers
need to make safe decisions during work.
– Warning Labels

Administrative Controls
► Creating formal procedures for working
safely under anticipated conditions
– Planned work procedures
– Electrical work permits
– Trainings and Job briefings

Personal Protective Equipment

► Limiting the severity of any injuries with a
last line of defense
– Arc-rated PPE
– Insulated tools
 Questions & Answers

Engr. Jonathan Santiago, PEE

Email @ jonash.seven@gmail.com
Mobile No.: +971 50 820 3902

Additional references:

https://brainfiller.com 20 minutes