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TEXTBOOK/WORKBOOK
TECHNICAL SHORT COURSE (TSC)
(ELECTRICAL COURSE CODE - ????)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
COURSE OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
After completion of this course, the Participant will have the necessary knowledge for
understanding of Arc Flash Phenomenon, its types , causes ,consequences and skin
burn analysis . also Identify Approach Boundaries and Arc Flash Analysis. including
arc flash hazard assessment and finding safer ways to work . This course also explains
the importance of Personal Protective Equipment for Arc Flash and creation arc flash
Labels. describes Arc Flash Protection System including Relays and Sensors .
OBJECTIVES
CONTENT
This course is divided into six (6) lessons of instruction and practical tasks to be
demonstrated by the instructor, as applicable.
The six lessons are titled: Introduction to Arc Flash; Arc Flash Analysis; Arc Flash
Safety and Hazard Assessment; Personal Protective Equipment for Arc Flash;
Equipment Labeling; Arc Flash Protection Relay.
DURATION
The course is designed for thee Days of theoretical and practical instruction, including
practical tasks to be demonstrated by the instructor.
PACING SCHEDULE
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10
LESSON OVERVIEW
LESSON 1
INTRODUCTION TO ARC FLASH
OVERVIEW
In this Lesson , the Participant will get the necessary knowledge for understanding
Arc Flash Phenomenon according to the most Famous Organization in this field
NFPA , its Definition , types , causes, consequences and skin burn analysis finally
recognizes common places for Arc Flash.
OBJECTIVES
The nature of explosive equipment failures and the rate of serious burn injuries in the
electrical industry have been studied for many years. Detailed investigation into the
arc flash phenomena by many researchers has led the NFPA to adopt arc flash
guidelines in NFPA-70E (2000) for work on or near energized electrical equipment.
The 2002 National Electric Code also adopted Arc Flash Hazard labeling
requirements. In September of 2002, IEEE-1584 “IEEE Guide For Performing Arc
Flash Hazard Calculations” was released, providing the detailed equations for
determining arc flash energies. Proposed NFPA-70E (2003) due for adoption in May
2003 enhances the original 70E guidelines and adopts IEEE-1584 as the basis for
determining arc flash energies.
Every three years, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) updates NFPA
70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace®. In recent years, the standard
has become increasingly stringent in response to the increased understanding of
electrical accidents in industrial plants and facilities. Because of the severe and often
devastating consequences of arc flash incidents—which claim one life every
workday—NFPA, along with the Occupational Health and Safety Administration
(OSHA), is mandating and enforcing safer electrical work practices.
As the world’s leading advocate of fire protection, NFPA has published more than 300
consensus codes and standards, including NFPA 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in
the Workplace. Designed at the request of OSHA, the intent of the standard is to
reduce exposure to the hazards of shock, electrocution, arc flash, and arc blast while
working on or near exposed electrical conductors or circuit parts that are or can
become energized.
NFPA 70E undergoes updates and revisions every three years. Each edition introduces
significant changes designed to help prevent the devastating effects of electrocution
and arc flash incidents. Even more changes have appeared in the 2018 edition,
including additional essential updates in the areas of safety, maintenance and training.
NFPA 70E 2018 became effective in August 2017. While not yet an OSHA-
enforceable document in its entirety, NFPA standards are used as part of electrical
safety practices and are often referenced as part of an OSHA citation.
An Arc Flash is the rapid release of energy due to electrical discharge through a
gaseous medium (usually air) between one live part and ground or between live parts
with different voltages result is electrical arcing, and which can have devastating
consequences for anyone exposed. The arcing fault usually occurs between one solid
electrical conductor or electrode to another through air. the air in the space becomes
an electrical conductor because the current ionizes it for voltage larger than 120V.
Arc fault can be characterized as an electrical explosion, because of the speed, power,
heat and pressure of the phenomenon as shown in fig.1-1.
Appropriate PPE is an essential last line of defense for anyone exposed to Arc Flash
hazard and PPE should form part of your comprehensive Arc Flash safety program.
Fig. 1-2 shows group of different shapes of Appropriate PPE.
For example, it can take place between one phase bus bar and another, either neutral
or ground. If the electrical equipment and system is such that the electrical discharge
is rapid and highly energetic, this is an electric arc flash.
It results in a rapid release of radiant (90%) and convection (10%) heat energy from
the breakdown of air insulation into a highly conductive plasma reaching temperatures
4 times hotter than the sun (35,000 ºF – 20000 ºC) causing more than 2000 burn
injuries per year, Fatal burns can occur The conductive material is vaporized by
temperatures in an arc.
While an arc flash is sometimes used interchangeably with “arc fault”, an arc flash is
more accurately defined as the light produced during an arc fault. An arc fault is a
type of electrical fault that results from the breakdown of an insulating medium
between two conductors where the energy is sufficient to sustain an arc across the
insulator (often air) and can cause extreme amounts of light (arc flash), immense heat
upwards of 19,000 degrees , and a resulting explosive pressure wave (arc blast). These
forces combine to create a hazardous condition that can vaporize metal, destroy
equipment, and pose a significant hazard to anyone in the vicinity.
Arc Flash can occur at any time whenever and wherever electrical equipment is live,
There is a difference between the actions that I implement, causing a spark and Do all
I do this act will happen sparkling , And the reasons beyond me will to make the spark
and are typically caused:
The cause of the initial short circuit normally burns away during the initial flash.
Arc Flash happens when electric current flows through an air gap between conductors.
There are several ways this can happen but the most common occurrence is when
conductor insulation is warn or broken down.
Human errors
• Service maintenance of switchgear.
• Bridging by tools in the switchgear.
• Forgotten tools on beside alive conductor.
• Human mistakes when working on live parts as removing enclosure parts.
Poor connection
• Loose connection
• Vibration
• Insufficient mechanical dimensioning
• Reduced insulation / protection degree
Animals, dirt, grease, gas, fluid
• Results in an arc short-circuit between one live part and ground or between live
parts as shown in fig. 1-5.
(1) Burning and vaporizing of copper and aluminum conductors and bus bars,
leading to an explosive as shown in fig. 1-6
(2) volumetric increase, with blast pressure , The pressure will depend on whether
a - there is open space around the electric arc or
b - it occurs inside a small, confined space within the equipment, where hot air and
plasma may only expand towards the outside
(3) Complete destruction of the electrical equipment and everything in the
explosion’s path – creating flying shrapnel or larger parts as the explosion
dissipates
(4) Air / ionized air / plasma heated to over 20000°C
(5) Sound blast up to 140 dB ( e.g. as loud as a gunshot ).
Most arc flash related injuries are arc burns, over 2000 people in the USA are
admitted into burn centers each year with server burns & 80% of these victims are
injured with electrical burns from an arc flash ignition of flammable clothes.
Also , In the last 10 years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 2,000 fatal and
more than 24,000 non-fatal electrical injuries such as those sustained from an arc flash
Note :
absorbed by the skin will cause serious, sometimes fatal, skin burns.
The severity of arc-flash burns depends on the working distance, the voltage,
the current and the arcing time So The easiest way to limit the arc energy is often
limiting the arcing time by high-speed protection.
Damage to equipment
For a given system voltage, two factors can be adjusted to reduce arc-flash energy:
time and current
Time can be reduced by using a device such as the PGR-8800 or AF0500 ( Arc
Protection Relay ) to rapidly detect an electric arc flash, thus cause the connected
circuit breaker to trip at its instantaneous speed, overriding any inverse-time delay.
Current can be reduced by using current-limiting fuses or, in case of phase-to-ground
faults, by using high-resistance grounding.
This is a pressure wave caused by the rapid heating of the surrounding atmosphere
Vaporized metal accounts for a small portion of the blast Causing a shock wave
capable of exploding circuit parts and other enclosures.
example ,
40 – 50 kA can produce a 1.7 bar pressure wave causing severe body injury due to
solid materials like hinged doors or covers being accelerate towards the operator or
technician also creates a 165dB sound wave.
Plasma as shown in fig. 1-10 is the element which accompanies the arc blast and
sustains it’s presence in the area of the event , Copper or other material of solid or
molten matter is also present in an arc flash blast event as shown in fig. 1-11 .
Fig. 1-10 Plasma accompanies the arc blast Fig. 1-11 Molten copper an arc flash
Arc Flash is one of the most common reasons that people get burned, but there are
many other causes. They include Friction burns , Cold burns , Thermal burns ,
Radiation burns(Sunburn) , Chemical burns , Electrical burns
Burn can result when person touches electrical wiring or equipment that is improperly
used or maintained. Such burn injuries occur on the hands as shown in fig. 1-12.
Doctors group burns into different categories based on how deeply your skin has been
harmed. These are called “degrees.” You can have a first-, second-, third-, or fourth-
degree burn as shown in fig. 1-13 The higher the degree, the more severe the burn is.
Fourth degree
This is the deepest and most severe of burns. They’re potentially life-threatening.
These burns destroy all layers of your skin, as well as your bones, muscles, and
tendon.
SUMMARY
Arc Flash Phenomena has led the NFPA to adopt arc flash guidelines.
Every three Years ,the National Fire Protection Association ( NFPA ) updates
NFPA 70E : Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.
Arc Flash is an Electrical Discharge through a gaseous medium (usually air)
between one live part and ground or between live parts with different voltages
result is Electrical Arcing.
Appropriate PPE is an essential last line of defense for anyone exposed to arc
flash hazard.
There are two types of arc flash
(i) Open Flash
this takes place when a panel is open or cover have been removed.
(ii) Confined Flash
this happens when an arc flash occurs in a distribution box or a motor
control center.
Causes of Arc Flash are Switching , Racking , Commissioning , Testing , Phasing
No Lock out Tag out.
The most common causes are Human errors , Poor Connection , Animals , dirt ,
grease , gas and fluid.
Arc Blast is a Pressure wave caused by the rapid heating of the surrounding
atmosphere vaporized metal causing a shock wave.
Arc flash plasma is the element accompanies the arc blast and sustains in the area
of event.
Copper or other material of solid or molten matter is also present in an arc flash
blast.
Doctors group burns into different categories based on how deeply your skin has
been harmed. These are called “degrees ( First , Second , third and Fourth ).
First Degree involves top layer of epidermis only.
Second Degree involves all epidermis and some of dermis.
Third Degree may extend into deeper tissues.
Fourth Degree is the deepest and most severe of burns; this burn destroy all layers
of your skin.
1 Cal/cm2 is equivalent to the energy produced from a lighter in one second
1.2 Cal/cm2 causes beginning of 2nd Degree burn
8 Cal/cm2 causes beginning of 3rd Degree burn
Common places of arc flash are low voltage panel , motor control center and
protection operation.
GLOSSARY
REVIEW EXERCISE
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LESSON 2
ARC FLASH ANALYSIS
OVERVIEW
OBJECTIVES
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INTRODUCTION
NFPA 70E has developed requirements to reduce the risk of injury to workers due to
shock and arc flash hazards. Behind ARC Flash Boundary (AFB) There are two shock
approach boundaries (limited and restricted) required to be observed in NFPA 70E
2018. The limited and restricted approach boundaries are based on the voltage of the
energized equipment ( see table 130.4(D)(a) of NFPA 2018). Also, NFPA 70E 2018
requires that before a worker approaches exposed energized electrical conductors or
circuit parts that have not been placed in a safe work condition, a flash hazard
assessment must be performed. Until equipment is placed in a safe work condition. It
is important to note that conductors and equipment are considered live when checking
for voltage while putting equipment in a safe work condition. The shock hazard
analysis should determine the voltage to which personnel will be exposed and the arc
flash boundary (AFB) and level of personal protective equipment (PPE) that the
worker must wear in order to minimize the possibility of electric shock to personnel.
The arc flash boundary is based on voltage, the available fault current and the time it
takes for the upstream protective device to operate and clear the fault.
NFPA 70E defines Limited Approach Boundary as "a shock protection boundary to be
crossed by only qualified persons (at a distance from a live part) which is not to be
crossed by unqualified persons unless escorted by a qualified person". The limited
approach boundary is the minimum distance from the energized item where
unqualified personnel may safely stand. No untrained personnel may approach any
closer to the energized item than this boundary. The boundary is determined by
NFPA 70E 2018 Table 130.4(D)(a) as shown in fig. 2-1. and is based on the voltage
of the equipment . A qualified person must use the appropriate PPE and be trained to
perform the required work to cross the limited approach boundary and enter the
limited space (may be Limited approach is less than Arc Flash Boundary (AFB)) as
shown in fig.2-2 . Enforceable document in its entirety, NFPA standards are used as
part of electrical safety practices and are often referenced as part of an OSHA citation.
Fig. 2-1 Table 130.4 (D)(a) from NFPA 70E 2018 Edition
Prohibited Approach is removed in NFPA 70E 2015 & NFPA 70E 2018 Standard
According to NFPA 70E 2012 as shown in fig.2-4 & fig. 2-5 . it is A shock protection
boundary to be crossed by only qualified persons (at a distance from a live part)
which, when crossed by a body part or object, requires the same protection as if direct
contact is made with a live part. Only qualified personnel wearing appropriate
personal protective equipment (PPE), having specified training to work on energized
conductors or components, and a documented plan justifying the need to perform this
work may cross the boundary and enter the Prohibited Space. Therefore, personnel
must obtain a risk assessment before the prohibited boundary is crossed. This
boundary is determined by NFPA 70E Table 130.4(c)(a) & Table 130.4(c)(b) (2012
Edition) and is based upon the voltage of the equipment.
One important safety principle contained in the NFPA 70E is that an electrical worker
must be “qualified” for the work to be performed. A qualified person is defined as
follows: "A qualified person is one who has demonstrated skills and knowledge
related to the construction and operation of the electrical equipment and installations
and has received safety training to identify the hazards and reduce the associated
risks.”
Some skills that a qualified electrical worker should be able to demonstrate
include:
Distinguish exposed energized conductors and circuit parts from other parts of
the equipment;
Determine the nominal voltage of exposed energized conductors and circuit
parts;
Determine the Approach Boundary distances;
Demonstrate the decision making process necessary to perform job safety
planning, hazard identification, risk assessment and the selection of appropriate
risk control methods including personal protective equipment.
wearing the proper PPE can get no closer than 12 In from the panel while it is
energized and The qualified person must also have an Energized Electrical Work
Permit EEWP.
The AFB is a safe approach distance from energized equipment or parts as shown in
fig. 2-6 . NFPA 70E establishes the default arc flash boundary at 4 feet for low voltage
(< 600V) systems where the total fault exposure is less than 5000 amperes-seconds
(fault current in amperes multiplied by the upstream device clearing time in seconds).
NFPA 70E also allows the AFB to be calculated. In some instances, calculations may
decrease the boundary distance. Persons crossing into the arc flash boundary are
required to wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as determined
by calculating methods contained in NFPA 70E. In addition, a qualified person must
accompany unqualified persons. The boundary is defined by NFPA 70E as the
distance at which the worker is exposed to 1.2 cal/cm2.
The arc flash boundary is defined as the distance from the arc source as shown in
fig. 2-7 where the onset of second degree burns can occur. This is typically defined by
medical researchers as 1.2 cal/cm2 or 5.0 Joules/cm2. Some research indicates that up
to 1.5 cal/cm2 can be used for exposure less than 6 cycles (0.1 seconds).
The short-circuit symmetrical ampacity , ISC , from a bolted three-phase fault at the
transformer terminals is calculated with the following formula:
b – Max. Power
A typical value for the maximum power, P (in MW) in a three-phase arc can be
calculated using the following formula:
The arc flash boundary distance is calculated in accordance with the following
formula :
Where : Dc = distance in feet of person from arc source for a just curable burn
(that is, skin temperature remains less than 80 °C ).
MVAbf = bolted fault MVA at point involved ( calculated from eq. (c) )
MVArating = MVA rating of transformer. For transformers with MVA ratings below
0.75 MVA, multiply the transformer MVA rating by 1.25.
The clearing time for a current-limiting fuse is approximately 1⁄4 cycle or 0.004
second if the arcing fault current is in the fuse’s current-limiting range.
The clearing time of a 5-kV and 15-kV circuit breaker is approximately 0.1 second
or 6 cycles if the instantaneous function is installed and operating.
This can be broken down as follows: actual breaker time (approximately 2 cycles),
plus relay operating time of approximately 1.74 cycles, plus an additional safety
margin of 2 cycles, giving a total time of approximately 6 cycles. Additional time
must be added if a time delay function is installed and operating.
Example 2.1
Solution :
Using eq. (a) Calculate the Short Circuit Current
Using eq.(b) and eq. (c) Calculate the Power in the Arc
Pmax = [ maximum bolted fault , in MVAbf ] x 0.7072
Pmax = 1.732 x 4160 x 25,000 x 10-6 x 0.7072
= 91 MW
Using eq. (d) Calculate the Second degree burn Distance
Dc = [ 2.65 x MVAbf x t ]1/2
Dc = [ 2.65 x 1.732 x 4160 x 25000 x 10-6 x 0.1 ]1/2
= 6.9 or 7 ft
Or using eq. (e) calculate the second degree burn distance using an alternative
method:
Dc = [ 53 x MVArating x t ]1/2
Dc = [ 53 x 10 x 0.1 ]1/2
= 7.28 ft
Example 2.2
The Following single-line diagram as shown in fig. 2-8 illustrates the complexity of a
distribution system in a typical petrochemical plant.
Solution :
Using eq. (a) Calculate the Short Circuit Current
ISC = { [ MVABase x 106 ] ÷ [ 1.732 x V ] } x { 100 ÷ % z }
Note that :
Incident Energy is related to the nature and amount of the thermal effects of an
electrical arc flash. This is the severity of the arc flash at a specified distance
(often measured from the site of the arc flash incident to the torso or to the face).
It is measured in units of energy per area at the expected distance of the worker from
the arc The commonly preferred incident energy unit of calories per cm2 (cal/cm2) will
be used throughout this Book .
(3) The total protective device clearing time (upstream of the prospective arc
location) at the maximum short-circuit current, and at the minimum fault level at
which the arc will sustain itself.
(4) The distance of the worker from the prospective arc for the task to be performed.
Typical working distance is the sum of the distance between the worker and the front
of the equipment and the distance from the front of the equipment to the potential arc
source inside the equipment as shown in fig. 2-10 is table of Typical Working
distances at different voltages and Equipment .
Typical working distances used for incident energy calculations are as follows :
(a) Low voltage (600 V and below) MCC and panelboards 455 mm (18 in.)
(b) Low voltage (600 V and below) switchgear — 610 mm (24 in.)
(c) Medium voltage (above 600 V) switchgear — 910 mm (36 in.)
where:
EMA = maximum open arc incident energy , cal/cm2
DA = distance from arc electrodes (for distances 18 in. and greater) , in.
tA = arc duration , sec
F = short-circuit current , kA (for the range of 16 kA to 50 kA)
Example 2.3
Solution :
where:
EMB = maximum 20 in. Cubic Box incident energy , cal/cm2
DB = distance from arc electrodes (for distances 18 in. and greater) , in.
tA = arc duration , sec
F = short-circuit current , kA (for the range of 16 kA to 50 kA)
Example 2.4
Calculate the maximum 20 in. cubic Box incident energy, cal/cm2, where
DA = 18 in.
tA = 0.2 second
F = 20 kA.
Solution :
Incident Energy For An Arc in a Cubic Box < Incident Energy For Arc in Open Air
Incident Energy For Arc Flash Exposure Greater than < 600 v
(1) The maximum bolted fault, three-phase short-circuit current available at the
equipment.
(2) The total protective device clearing time (upstream of the prospective arc location)
at the maximum short-circuit current. If the total protective device clearing time is
longer than 2 seconds, consider how long a person is likely to remain in the location
of the arc flash. It is likely that a person exposed to an arc flash will move away
quickly if it is physically possible, and 2 seconds is a reasonable maximum time for
calculations. A person in a bucket truck or a person who has crawled into equipment
will need more time to move away. Sound engineering judgment must be used in
applying the 2-second maximum clearing time.
where:
E = incident energy, cal/cm2
F = bolted fault short-circuit current, kA
V = system phase-to-phase voltage, kV
tA = arc duration, sec
D = distance from the arc source, in.
where:
E = incident energy, J/cm2
V = system voltage, kV
Ibf = available three-phase bolted fault current
t = arcing time, sec
D = distance (mm) from the arc to the person (working distance)
Note : For voltages over 15 kV, arcing fault current and bolted fault current are
considered equal.
The arc flash hazard analysis shall be updated when a major modification or
renovation takes place. It shall be reviewed periodically, not to exceed 5 years, to
account for changes in the electrical distribution system that could affect the results of
the arc flash hazard analysis.
The arc flash hazard analysis shall take into consideration the design of
the overcurrent protective device and its opening time, including its condition of
maintenance.
(1) Improper or inadequate maintenance can result in increased opening time of the
overcurrent protective device, thus increasing the incident energy.
(2) Both larger and smaller available short-circuit currents could result in higher
available arc flash energies. If the available short-circuit current increases without a
decrease in the opening time of the overcurrent protective device, the arc flash energy
will increase. If the available short-circuit current decreases, resulting in a longer
opening time for the overcurrent protective device, arc flash energies could also
increase.
SUMMARY
NFPA 70E has developed requirements to reduce the risk of injury to workers
due to shock and arc flash hazards.
The shock hazard analysis should determine the voltage to which personnel will
be exposed and the arc flash boundary (AFB) and level of PPE that the worker
must wear in order to minimize the possibility of electric shock to personnel.
The Limited approach boundary is the minimum distance from the energized
item where unqualified personnel may safely stand.
The Restricted approach boundary is A shock protection boundary to be crossed
by only qualified persons who wear appropriate PPE and also must have a
written approved plan for the work.
The Prohibited Approach boundary is removed in NFPA 70E 2018 Standard.
qualified person shall be trained and knowledgeable in the construction and
operation of equipment or specific work methods.
The AFB is a safe approach distance from energized equipment or parts.
Or The AFB is defined by NFPA 70E as the distance at which the worker is
exposed to 1.2 cal/cm2.
Or The AFB is defined as the distance from the arc source where the onset of
second degree burns can occur min. 1.2 Cal/cm2.
Persons crossing into the AFB are required to wear the appropriate PPE as
determined by calculating methods contained in NFPA 70E.
The clearing time for a current-limiting fuse is approximately 1⁄4 cycle or 0.004
second
The clearing time for a 5-kV and 15-kV circuit breaker is approximately 0.1
second or 6 cycles.
The arc flash boundary is based on voltage, the available fault current and the
time it takes for the upstream protective device to operate and clear the fault.
Typical working distance is the sum of the distance between the worker and the
front of the equipment and the distance from the front of the equipment to the
potential arc source inside the equipment.
An arc flash hazard analysis shall determine :
(a) the Arc Flash Boundary
(b) the incident energy at the working distance
(c) the personal protective equipment
The arc flash hazard analysis shall be updated and shall be reviewed
periodically, not to exceed 5 years.
FORMULAS
Max. Power
Where : Dc = distance in feet of person from arc source for a just curable burn
(that is, skin temperature remains less than 80 °C ).
MVAbf = bolted fault MVA at point involved ( calculated from eq. (c) )
MVArating = MVA rating of transformer. For transformers with MVA ratings
below 0.75 MVA, multiply the transformer MVA rating by 1.25.
t = time of arc exposure in seconds.
Incident Energy For Arc in Cubic Box < Incident Energy For Arc in Open Air
Incident Energy For Arc Flash Exposure Greater than < 600 v
where:
E = incident energy, cal/cm2
F = bolted fault short-circuit current, kA
V = system phase-to-phase voltage, kV
tA = arc duration, sec
D = distance from the arc source, in.
where:
E = incident energy, J/cm2
V = system voltage, kV
Ibf = available three-phase bolted fault current
t = arcing time, sec
D = distance (mm) from the arc to the person (working distance)
GLOSSARY
Cal/cm2 & J/cm2 1 cal/cm2 equals 4.184 J/cm2 and 41.84 kJ/m2
(i) Behind ARC Flash Boundary There are two shock approach boundaries ----------
and --------------
(ii) wearing the proper PPE can get no closer than ----- inch from the panel while it
is energized and The qualified person must also have an ----------------------------
------------------------------
(iii) AFB mean ------------------------------------------ and PPE mean ---------------------
--------------------------------
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LESSON 3
ARC FLASH SAFETY AND
HAZARD ASSESSMENT
53
PERFORMANCE SHEET
OVERVIEW
This lesson discusses Rules and guidelines are provided by Safety Committees also
determine responsible of arc flash assessment. The lesson scopes out Arc Flash
Mitigation Solutions. also give regulation to reduce exposure through safety by
Design , Lockout Tagout procedure system and types of locks and Hold tag .
OBJECTIVES
Identify Standards and guidelines for Mitigation the arc Flash Risk Hazard.
Illustrate Arc Flash Risk assessment.
Demonstrate Definition of Working Distance.
Illustrate Regulations apply to reduce Exposure through safety by design.
Identify Arc Flash Mitigation Solutions.
Demonstrate Lock Device, types of Locks and Lockout Procedure System.
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INFORMATION SHEET
INTRODUCTION
Electrical power has always come with risks, and potential hazards, including arc
flash, are on the rise. Organizations such as OSHA and NFPA have become
increasingly proactive about providing and enforcing guidelines and standards for
mitigating the risk and ensuring worker safety. The most recent version of NFPA 70E
requires facility owners and managers to revise and update safety policies, including
performing power system studies to calculate and document arc flash risks.
Regulatory agencies soon recognized the severity and urgency of the situation.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) developed laws to
protect electrical workers. These laws, in essence, mandate that work on electrical
equipment must be performed in a manner that does not expose the worker to undue
risk of injury.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety
in the Workplace® is the document most often referenced for electrical safety. OSHA
enforces electrical workplace safety standards outlined in NFPA 70E. Enforcement
may take place following an electrical accident or during their normal on-site
inspection process.
NFPA 70E requires facility owners to perform an arc flash risk assessment prior to
allowing a worker to perform tasks on energized equipment. The arc flash risk
assessment determines the presence and location of any arc flash hazards, calculates
incident energy, and determines appropriate safety-related work practices, arc flash
boundary, and the correct PPE to be worn within the arc flash boundary.
All risk assessments shall be kept by the safety department for a minimum of 2 years.
The 2018 version of 70E Article 120.5 explains the process for establishing and
verifying an electrically safe work condition. An electrically safe work condition is
defined as “a state in which an electrical conductor or circuit part has been
disconnected from energized parts, locked and tagged in accordance to established
standards, tested to ensure the absence of voltage and temporarily grounded for
personnel protection if determined necessary.”
The electrical safety program must require that a documented job safety plan be
completed by a qualified person for each electrical related job task.
The job safety plan must include the following:
A description of the job and the individual tasks;
Identification of any electrical hazards associated with the tasks;
A shock risk assessment;
An arc-flash risk assessment;
The work procedures involved;
Any special precautions to be taken and the methods to be used to identify and
control the sources of hazardous energy.
A major revision in the 2012 NFPA 70E update stated that the arc flash boundary
distance must now be determined for all locations where the voltage is greater than 50
volts and there is a possibility of performing energized work such as maintenance,
diagnostics and testing. Previously, a number of locations could be excluded from the
assessment and calculation based on system voltage and the limits of the supplying
energy source. For example, a 208-volt distribution panel for lighting and convenience
outlets may not have been assessed or labeled because the supplying transformer was
less than 150 kilovolt-amperes. However, a second adjacent panel did need to be
assessed and labeled because it was fed from a larger transformer. Such anomalies led
to much confusion in the field. So while the new standard expands the scope of arc
flash protection and the number of locations that need to be assessed, it also helps
eliminate uncertainty that could lead to noncompliance, or worse, injury to a worker.
NFPA 70E 2018 now specifies that the equipment owner is responsible for electrical
equipment maintenance and the documentation of such maintenance.
Preventive Maintenance
An arc flash hazard may exist when energized electrical conductors or circuit parts are
exposed or when they are within equipment in a guarded or enclosed condition,
provided a person is interacting with the equipment in such a manner that could cause
an electric arc. Under normal operating conditions, enclosed energized equipment that
has been properly installed and maintained is not likely to pose an arc flash hazard.
See Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) and Table 130.7(C)(15)(b) for examples of activities that
could pose an arc flash hazard.
Before PPE options are considered, it is essential to look at hazard mitigation and risk
reduction.
Hazard mitigation
(d) If a specific item of electrical equipment presents an electric arc flash hazard, the
first step is to consider if it can be substituted with an alternative
(e) Since electric arc flash represents a hazard to workers only during live work,
changing protection settings during this work can reduce or eliminate the hazard
(f) Recalculate the hazard in all conditions.
Case Study,
As shown in fig. 3-2 it is a calculation example for Incident Energy and
mitigating actions in a specific case.
Fig. 3-2 Case Study for Mitigation Action before Replacing Fuse
The line diagram above shows a 10 kV medium-voltage power supply, which feeds on
the low-voltage main-distribution over a cast resin transformer with a power of 1250
kVA. From there, a sub-distribution network is fed via a cable connection, and another
cable connection feeds the load.
Calculating the arc flash boundary at the last switchboard, and the Incident Energy at
a working distance of 300 mm, is achieved by using IEEE 1584. The IEEE 1584 guide
provides a tool to calculate the arc current and its duration. At 100% arc current, the
calculated duration is 1 second, and at 85% arc current, 1.5 seconds.
In the example above, the resulting Incident Energy at 300 mm is calculated to be
42.57 cal/cm2 and the Arc Flash boundary 1787 mm.
Fig. 3-3 Case Study for Mitigation Action after Replacing Fuse
Risk reduction
(1) The more reliable the electrical equipment the less likely the risk of electric arc
flash. If it is impossible to substitute equipment with an alternative [see above]
then it is important to specify the most reliable equipment with the lowest risk
(2) Humans are more fallible than equipment. So even when working with the lowest
risk equipment, it is essential that workers (whether team members or
contractors) are:
(a) made aware of the hazard
(b) trained and assessed for being able to carry out live working tasks (whether
they are a team member or contractor)
(c) assigned clear responsibilities
(d) given clear procedures for intervention in the event of an arc flash.
If, after all the above steps have been taken, residual risk remains, then Personal
Protection Equipment (PPE) provides the final level of arc flash protection.
PPE should be made available to all workers within the Arc Flash Protection
Boundary. For optimum worker protection, PPE should be provided to protect the
hands, eyes, face, body and head. Body protection should consider layering of
garments, and additional protection against mechanical, thermal and chemical hazards.
The normal operation of automatic and remotely operated devices in substations does
not require workers wear more than their Category 1 (4 cal/cm2) shirt, cotton denim
pants, and PPE equipment. Workers are not exposed to arc flash hazards because
electric devices, automatic devices are enclosed, or elevated from ground to provide a
safe distance from potential arc flash hazards.
If you go to a substation for a walk down, but you find a work crew there, can
you enter the substation?
Do you know the arc flash boundaries? If so, you can enter if you do not infringe upon
the boundaries. If you are there to perform work it is required that you make contact
w/ that crew to discuss what that crew is doing and understand their job. If in doubt
and they are working on equipment w/ an arc flash hazard make contact w/ them
before entering. Note that any activity that could cause an arc flash should be
considered live electrical work. This can include testing for energized circuit,
installing grounds, switching or simply opening cabinets containing exposed live
conductors. This pertains to transmission as well as distribution facilities.
Working Distance
The arc flash boundary and associated protection requirements are based on the
incident energy levels available to the persons chest or face, not the hands or arms.
The degree of injury depends on the percentage of the person’s skin that is burned,
and the critical nature of the burn. Obviously, the head, and chest areas are more
critical to survival that fingers or arms.
Appropriate working distances for most operations can be calculated by placing your
elbow at your side and extending your hand to the equipment. A typical average for
this distance is 18 inches.
By extending the arm to the full out position, this can be increased to 24-28 inches for
most people as shown in Fig. 3-4.
Solution Group 1 Lowers arc flash energy by reducing the arcing time
Lockout tagout is a method of protecting workers by making completely sure that all
machines are turned completely off before operating on them or working around them.
If you don’t have a lockout tagout program on your job site, then you are running the
risk of machines unexpectedly starting back up at inopportune times and Arc Flash
may occur. Also in case of more than person or team operate on the same equipment
on the same time , must be make lockout tagout for good arrange work between them
and preventing any human errors.
LOCKOUT DEVICE
A device that provides physically secure the equipment in all safe and secure
measures while being under work. It prevents any unauthorized switching to remove
and energize unintentionally the isolated equipment to ensures that the isolating
device and the equipment being controlled cannot be operated until the lockout device
is removed.
TYPES OF LOCKS
there are Two types of locks are to be used in SEC . These are given below.
1 - OPERATION LOCK
A golden color padlock having a master key differing from normal system locks, to be
used to lock the equipment in its normal condition as shown in Fig. 3-7.
2 - SAFETY LOCK
Different color padlock as shown in fig. 3-8. having an individual key differing from
normal system locks. Each different color code is dedicated to a specific section
(Dedicated Section) as shown in the following table and used to lock means of
isolation, earthing or other safety devices .
Network Operator from Network Operations Division is responsible for Isolation and
earthing of the equipment.
A Special lock out for safety red color boxes as shown in fig. 3-9 are fixed in the
control room, have been designed and introduced to keep all safety padlocks and keys
used at site. Fig. 3-10 shows Red Box with details
The following process describes the required steps to use these locks to provide
the required safety
Step 1 The NWO shall isolate, earth the required equipment and apply the red
color safety padlock including the hold tag at the earthing points.
Step 2 The NWO shall keep the operational safety padlock keys inside the lock out
safety red color box, close the box by standard operational key and apply
the safety multi-lock hasps as shown in fig.3-11 .
to enable other maintenance/contractor to fix their safety locks.
Step 4 Each maintenance / contractor safety document receiver shall apply his
standard colored safety padlock in one of the holes in the multi-lock hasps
or in the holes in the main box fixed at both sides of the substations.
Step 5 When each document receiver completes his work he shall close his safety
document and remove his safety padlock key from the multi-lock
hasps/holes.
Step 6 The NWO shall confirm that all other safety padlocks has been removed
and the multi-lock hasps / holes in the main box are free.
Step 7 The NWO shall collect the keys from the safety box, and normalize the
isolated equipment by removing operational safety padlocks from its
earthing points.
Step 8 The NWO shall declare to RCC that the equipment is now free and ready
for eneigization.
HOLD TAGS
Fig. 3-12 shows the two sides (front & rear) of a hold tag.
Hold Tags should have the following information written as a minimum requirement:-
1. Name of person who has locked out the device or equipment.
2. Telephone number of the person who as locked out the equipment.
3. Task being performed on the equipment.
4. Time and date of lock out.
5. Department carrying out the task on the equipment
Applying Hold Tags only Where locks cannot be applied, or are not feasible due to the
existing design of the equipment, which are not provided for the application of lock.
SUMMARY
OSHA and NFPA 70E provide guidelines and standards for mitigating the risk
and ensuring worker safety.
NFPA 70E requires facility owners to perform an arc flash risk assessment prior
to allowing a worker to perform tasks on energized equipment.
The arc flash risk assessment determines the presence and location of any arc
flash hazards, calculates incident energy, and determines appropriate safety-
related work practices, arc flash boundary, and the correct PPE.
NFPA 70E specifically requires maintenance for electrical equipment and
overcurrent protection devices to help mitigate arc flash hazards.
Arc flash hazard may exist when energized electrical conductors or circuit parts
are exposed.
Onset of a second-degree burn occurs at 1.2 cal/cm2 accumulated in 1 second.
Hazard mitigation is done by substitution with an alternative item , changing
protection settings and Recalculate the hazard in all conditions.
Humans are more fallible than equipment.
PPE should be made available to all workers within the Arc Flash Protection
Boundary , and protect the hands, eyes, face, body and head.
Automatic and remotely operated devices in substations does not require workers
wear more than their Category 1 (4 cal/cm2).
Appropriate working distances for most operations can be calculated by placing
your elbow at your side and extending your hand to the equipment , average
distance is 18 inches ( 45.72 cm ).
Arc Flash Mitigation Solutions are
Solution Group 1 Lowers arc flash energy by reducing the arcing time
- Over-Current Protective Device (OCPD) Coordination Study
- Specialized Relaying Such as Light Sensing Technology
- Virtual Main Relay
Solution Group 2 Removes worker from location or places a barrier
between worker and exposed energized parts
- Infrared (IR) Windows
- Remote Racking System (RRS)Virtual Main Relay
- Wireless Temperature Monitoring System (WTMS)
Lockout tagout is a method of protecting workers by making completely sure
that all machines are turned completely off before operating on them or
working around them.
There are two types of Locks
GLOSSARY
REVIEW EXERCISE
LESSON 4
EQUIPMENT LABELING
This lesson discusses Labeling Printed and put on Equipment , its information , its
location , who is responsible for that . also participate learn information on label and
suitable period for updating and reason for update and this lesson give brief idea about
Arc Proof Switchgear
OBJECTIVES
77
78
INTRODUCTION
Arc flash labeling became an NFPA 70E requirement in 2002, and the requirements
were updated in 2004, 2009, 2012 and 2015. As recently as 2009, the standard stated
only that electrical equipment had to be labeled, and listed a few of the types subject
to marking, but was somewhat unclear in detail. In 2015 and 2018, NFPA clarified the
intent of the requirement.
Specifically, NFPA 70E 2018 spells out the types of equipment that need to be
labeled, including switchboards, switchgear, panel boards, industrial control panels,
meter socket enclosures, and motor control panels as shown in fig. 4-1.
They state that only electrical equipment that is likely to require examination,
adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized shall be marked with a label.
Per NFPA 70E 2018 , Section 130.5.(H), The owner of the electrical equipment shall
be responsible for providing employee performing work tasks with the information
they need to work safely and also responsible for the documentation, installation, and
maintenance of the marked label . Part of this is ensuring that arc flash hazard labels
are in place and that the employee has the information necessary to select the
appropriate PPE.
The labels need to be placed on the outside front cover of the equipment. However,
when it comes to panelboards, it is acceptable to place the labels on the inside of the
door. They need to be clearly visible to any person who will be working on the piece
of equipment while it is energized as shown in fig. 4-2. Also, there are some instances
where you will have line side and load labels for one piece of equipment.
This typically occurs when there is a label for both the line side and load side of the
equipment. This will be noted on arc flash labels and both of these labels need to be
applied to their respective line and load side locations on the same equipment as
shown in Fig. 4-3.
80
Fig. 4-3 Line Side & Load Side Labels
Both of the labels look similar. However, notice that for the label on the right under
the protective device listing it says “Line Side of: FS-2 Fuse”. This label is for the line
side on the this protective device in Disc-FS-2; whereas the other label on the left,
which does not say anything extra about “Line Side of”, is for the bus downstream of
Disc-FS-2.
The new standard also makes it clear what information needs to be included on field
labels:
1 - Arc Flash Boundary
2 – Incident Energy
Remember:
Cal/cm2
Or
joule/cm2
Or
When you work on live equipment you must wear Electrical Insulated Gloves
according to type of energized equipment and each CLASS has Voltage Isolate Value
as shown in fig. 4-4.
82
CASE STUDY
#1 – If you are within 12 Ft 5 in front of the source of the arc flash, you are within the
flash hazard boundary (1.2 Cal/cm2). This is where you could receive a second
degree (blister) burn and have possible ignition of non-arc rated clothing.
However, if you are more than 12 Ft 5 in away from the source of the arc flash,
then you are considered safe and not at risk from the arc flash.
#2 – If you are 1 Ft 6 ( 18 in. = 455 mm ) in away from the source of the arc flash,
you will physically receive 38.3 Cal/cm2 of energy. This is also referred to as
“the working distance” refer to fig. 2-10 , which is the distance measured from
the arc flash source to the upper torso.
#3 – This equipment voltage is 208 volts. If you remove the cover of the equipment
while it is energized, you must protect yourself from shock by wearing insulated
gloves or covering the energized parts with an insulated rubber blanket.
#4 – This shows what minimum class of protective insulated gloves that need to be
worn when working on this equipment while it is energized.
#6 – This is the restricted approach boundary. Only a qualified person wearing the
proper PPE can be within the distance listed of the energized equipment.
According to fig. 4-6 , a qualified person wearing the proper PPE can get no
closer than 12 In from the panel while it is energized.
(The qualified person must also have an Energized Electrical Work Permit EEWP)
#7 – This is the date the label was printed, and which edition of IEEE and NFPA 70E
the label was based on.
#8 – The “Equipment ID (Name)” is the actual piece of equipment that the label is for
and should be applied to. The “Protective Device” is the upstream device that is
protecting this specific piece of equipment.
84
#10 – This line shows which operating scenario the information on the label applies
to. When arc flash hazard calculations are performed, they are calculated under
different possible operating scenarios of the electrical system. This is done in
order to find the worst possible case of arc flash incident energy at each piece of
equipment.
For example, let’s say there is an electrical system that has many motors and can be
fed from a utility source or generator source. There would be four operating scenarios
in which the calculations would be performed; two would be when the system is being
fed power from the utility source, one with all the motors running at full capacity and
one with all the motors out of service. The other two operating scenarios would be
when the system is fed power by the generator, with all motors running in one
scenario and the other with all motors out of service. Performing the calculations this
way tells us the different incident energies at each piece of equipment under various
circumstances. The label provided for each piece of equipment is the worst possible
case out of all the operating scenarios calculations.
The following figure fig.4-7 illustrate two possible configurations . the example on
the left label is for equipment evaluated using "the incident energy analysis method " ,
and the example on the right label is for equipment evaluated using " the PPE
Category method " as illustrated in lesson 5
Note :
write on label at least one of the following :
Additionally, NFPA 70E 2018 section 130.5(H) includes unless changes in electrical
distribution system(s) render the label inaccurate , labels applied prior to the effective
date of edition 2018 of the standard shall be acceptable if they complied with the
requirements for equipment labeling in the standard in effect at the time the labels
were applied.
The data shall be reviewed for accuracy at intervals not to exceed 5 years
Obviously, major changes to the electrical distribution system have the potential to
impact the accuracy of arc flash labels, and thus, the risk to electrical workers.
However, replacing a fuse, replacing a circuit breaker or protective relay, and even
changes made by supplying utilities can affect arc flash analysis and the resulting
field label information. To ensure compliance and worker safety, a qualified
engineering company should ideally assist with an arc flash assessment and label
review when any changes are made to the distribution system, or every five years
at a minimum.
Maintenance Program
86
ARC PROOF SWITCHGEAR
Arc Proof Switchgear are designed to contain and redirect the arc flash energy and
exhaust gases up through the plenum at the top of the enclosure and away from the
operator. In the case of an arc flash event, pressure activated flaps slam shut to seal
ventilation areas in the rear cable compartment. The rugged dead front panels protect
personnel from the explosive force of arc flash occurrences. The circuit breaker
cubicle doors are provided with a reinforced escutcheon gasket, protecting operators
from exhaust gases and other materials.
ANSI type 1
Arc resistance from the front of gear only
ANSI type 2
Arc resistance provided from the front, sides and rear
A suffix may be added to either of these two types to further define the type of
protection provided:
A: Basic design
B: Arc resistance is maintained even while opening designated low voltage
compartments
C: Arc resistance is maintained even when opening designated adjacent compartments
D: Special designation that supplements the Type 1 designation, but identifies
additional arc resistance in certain structures
Arc Resistant (AR) Switchgear solutions are for applications where an extra margin of
safety is essential as shown in fig. 4-5 . They meet the IEEE C37.20.7 Type 2B AR
standard which states that the equipment will provide arc resistance protection on the
front, rear, and sides while opening designated low-voltage compartments.
88
INFORMATION SHEET
SUMMARY
GLOSSARY
REVIEW EXERCISE
i - the review period for arc flash labels is at least once every -------------- years
a) three b) five
c) four d) six
(ii) state four from information printed on the label according to NFPA 70E 2018
a. ---------------------------
b. ---------------------------
c. ---------------------------
d. --------------------------
LESSON 5
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT FOR ARC
FLASH
OVERVIEW
OBJECTIVES
95
TSC– ???? Arc Flash Analysis, Textbook/Workbook 96
Information sheet
INTRODUCTION
When an employee is working within the arc flash boundary, the worker shall wear
PPE in accordance with of NFPA 70E 2018. All parts of the body inside the arc flash
boundary shall be protected. It is important that workers’ clothing is not ignited by
the effects of the electric arc. If clothing is ignited, it should be rapidly self-
extinguishing. PPE is a last line of defense.
Most severe burn energies and fatalities are caused by non-flame resistant clothing
igniting and continuing to burn. Flame resistant clothing will self-extinguish, thus
limiting the injury Body area under non-FR clothing is often burned more severely
than exposed skin as shown in fig. 5-1 & fig. 5-2
While PPE is commonly used in a variety of work places, the 2018 Edition of NFPA
70E is said to be working to clarify which type and quality of PPE is recommended
for which job. It requires manufacturers to provide information regarding care, arc
ratings, and other important information that can help workers decide which piece of
PPE is right for the job. This requirement is trying to standardize the market
expectations so that there is no doubt or confusion over which piece of PPE will
provide protection for workers and in which working condition it would be required. It
is also to ensure quality. Electrical workers will know a certain rating will provide the
protection they need, even if their business moves to a different PPE brand.
Coverall
Shirt
Pants
Shoes
Jackets
Manufacturer's name
The “ANSI Z89.1-1997" designation
Class designation (G, E or C)
Date of manufacture
Eye Protection
Employees shall wear protective equipment for the eyes as shown in fig. 5-13,
whenever there is danger of injury from electric arcs, flashes, or from flying objects
resulting from electrical explosion.
Hearing Protection
Employees shall wear hearing protection whenever working within the arc flash
boundary as shown in fig.5-14 .
Employees shall wear arc-rated clothing protect all your body , as shown in fig.5-15
the parts of Arc-rated suit to body protection. wherever there is possible exposure to
an electric arc flash above the threshold incident energy level for a second degree burn
[5 J/cm2 (1.2 cal/cm2)] as shown in fig. 5- 16.
Employees shall wear rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors as shown in
fig. 5-17. and rubber insulating sleeves as shown in fig. 5-18, where there is a danger
of hand and arm injury from electric shock due to contact with energized electrical
conductors or circuit parts. Rubber insulating gloves shall be rated for the voltage for
which the gloves will be exposed , Gloves should also be appropriate for wearing at
extreme temperatures and provide good mechanical protection.
Note 1 :
It is important that hand protection equipment not only provides optimum protection
against electric shock and the thermal effects of an electric arc, but is also
comfortable, and does not compromise manual dexterity or inhibit the worker from
carrying out normal tasks.
Note 2 :
Protector gloves must be worn over insulating gloves, except for Class 0 gloves, under
limited-use conditions, where small equipment and parts manipulation necessitate
unusually high finger dexterity.
Rubber Gloves is classified into Classes Each CLASS has voltage isolate value as
shown in fig. 5-19
Remember, it’s not the color of the glove that’s important – it’s the color of the tag!
Note :
Do not use leather protectors alone for protection against electric shock. Serious
injury or death could result. Always use proper rubber insulating gloves.
● Foot Protection.
Where insulated footwear is used as protection against step and touch potential,
dielectric footwear shall be required. Insulated soles shall not be used as primary
electrical protection as shown in fig.5-20.
The arc flash rating is called the Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) The ATPV
is measured in cal/cm2, and it’s defined as " the maximum incident heat energy that a
fabric or material can absorb to cause the onset of a 2nd degree burn ".
If the worker is exposed to a potential incident heat energy level of less than 4.0
cal/cm2, the proper ATPV clothing system is 4 cal/cm2 ( CAT 1 ).
When a person enters an area where the potential for arc flash exists, the person shall
ensure that his sleeves are rolled down. All the buttons are closed and secured. He
shall also ensure the shirt tails are tucked in and that no bear skin is exposed to the arc.
When a person intend to do any switching, racking, testing, phasing or any other task
where the risk is abnormally high for arc flash. That person shall use flash suit with at
least a 40 cal/cm2 level of protection. The suit will be put on just prior to the high risk
task and can be removed immediately after the high risk task is complete.
Under any other normal duties the person who is at risk of an arc flash shall always
wear at least a 12 cal/cm2 shirt and pants during the normal working day or when
called out after hours to perform any task involving electrical work.
When Entering a Substation, Switching Yard or working near an MCC the PPE
Arc-rated clothing shall be worn ; All PPE must be approved and also :
Basic Rules for the Care & Maintenance of Arc Flash PPE
1. All Personal Protective Equipment being worn must be subjected to a thorough
visual inspection before use to make sure there are no defects or damage to the
equipment.
2. When wearing the equipment make sure that the sleeves are rolled down, the
shirt tails are tucked into your pants and al the buttons are fastened.
3. No modifications may be made to any of the equipment issued to you.
4. Arc Flash Personal Protective may only be washed with ordinary soap and
water. DO NOT USE softening agents, bleach or hydrogen peroxides as this
will reduce the protection properties of the equipment.
5. Arc Flash PPE must be properly stored when not being used to avoid any
damage or buildup of dirt and dust on the equipment which will reduce its
protective properties.
6. Only a warm iron may be used during the ironing process and no hot irons may
be used. This will also reduce the effectiveness of the rife resistance.
7. If the garments is subjected to any arc flash accident regardless it lookalikes
good or was damaged , They are changed by the employer.
Notes :
- The inspection shall consist of a complete examination of the garment or PPE
to look for any tares, fraying or joint failure as well as any contamination of the
material by foreign bodies or oil.
- In case of any defect is found on the garment , The garment shall be returned to
the materials department and a new replacement shall be issued.
No modifications may be carried out on any PPE issued for the purpose of arc
flash protection or fire resistance.
All PPE issued must be of the correct size appropriate for the user and shall not be
too big or too small.
No cutting of the sleeves shall be permitted as this will render the garment
ineffective again the hazards of an arc flash.
No tailoring of any garment is permitted as this will render the garment ineffective
against the hazard of an arc flash.
The only permitted modifications are the name badge above the chest pocket and
or the company logo either directly embroiling or patch.
1. Wear garments properly – collars closed, sleeves and cuffs down and secured,
shirt tails tucked, closures secured, and other manufacturer recommendations.
2. Wear looser-fitting garments that provide adequate mobility.
3. Do not wear non-FR clothing over FR garments. The outermost layer must be
FR.
4. Wear only FR or non-melting undergarments (e.g. cotton, silk, wool.)
5. Wash garments thoroughly after each wearing to remove contaminants.
6. Wear garments with the appropriate arc rating as dictated by an electric arc
hazard analysis. Consult employer if unsure.
Insulating Blankets
Insulating blankets as shown in fig.5-22 , matting, covers, line hose, gloves, and
sleeves made of rubber shall meet the following requirements:
Insulated Tools
Employees shall use insulated tools or handling equipment, or both, when working
inside the restricted approach boundary of exposed energized electrical conductors or
circuit parts where tools or handling equipment might make unintentional contact.
Insulated tools shall be protected from damage to the insulating material as shown in
fig.5-24
One of the following methods shall be used for the selection of arc flash PPE :
(1) The incident energy analysis method ( Engineering Analysis )
(2) The arc flash PPE category method ( Table Method )
Either, but not both, methods shall be permitted to be used on the same piece of
equipment. The results of an incident energy analysis to specify an arc flash PPE
Category in Table 130.7(C)(15)(c) shall not be permitted.
The incident energy exposure level shall be based on the working distance of the
employee’s face and chest areas from a prospective arc source for the specific task to
be performed. Arc-rated clothing and other PPE shall be used by the employee based
on the incident energy exposure associated with the specific task. Recognizing that
incident energy increases as the distance from the arc flash decreases, additional PPE
shall be used for any parts of the body that are closer than the distance at which the
incident energy was determined.
For information on estimating the incident energy, see Lesson 2 of this book.
Guidance on Selection of Arc-Rated Clothing and Other PPE for Use When Incident
Energy Exposure is Determined by Hazard Analysis by using table 130.5(G)
As shown in fig.5-25.
Fig. 5-25 Selection of Arc-Rated Clothing and PPE by incident energy analysis
The results of an engineering analysis are placed on the equipment label in the form of
incident energy (in calories per square centimeters at working distance) as shown in
fig.5-26 .The worker would then need to select PPE with an Arc Thermal Performance
Value (ATPV) that meets or exceeds the available incident energy posted on the
informational label. ATPV is also rated in calories per square centimeters to make this
determination simple.
Notice there is no mention of PPE categories. In fact, the results of an incident energy
analysis to specify an arc flash PPE category in Table 130.7(C)(15)(c) is not
permitted. Table 130.7(C)(15)(c) was specifically created to complement the task
tables and is applicable only if using the “table method.” Therefore, facilities that
conduct an engineering analysis must use the results to create site-specific arc flash
protection and PPE requirements. Reducing and managing incident energy exposure
through engineering analysis can significantly impact and potentially reduce the
required PPE for performing tasks on electrical equipment, a benefit that cannot be
gained using the task tables and charts.
For example, if an engineering analysis determined an incident energy value of 8.4
calories, and that value was recorded on the label, then the worker would need to
choose a garment with an ATPV that meets or exceeds the posted 8.4 calories.
However, using the “table method,” an 8.4 calorie hazard would be considered
Category 2. Using the incorrect PPE or more PPE than required becomes cumbersome
and could actually be more detrimental to worker safety. Using the engineering
analysis to determine PPE requirements ensures the most appropriate PPE for the
hazard, and thus, the greatest protection for the worker.
This method can be used only where the system parameters defined in the tables are
applicable to the specific tasks being performed.
The requirements of 130.7(C)(15) shall apply when the arc flash PPE category method
is used for the selection of arc flash PPE.
When conducting the arc flash risk assessment using the PEE category method ,the
tables must be used in the following sequence:
1. It must be determined if an arc flash is likely for the tasks specified in table
130.5(C) as shown in fig.5-27.
2. If an arc flash is likely, the hierarchy of risk control must be exhausted before
determining necessary PPE.
3. When PPE will be employed as a risk control, the level of PPE necessary must
be determined from either table 130.7(C)(15)(a) for AC system or table
130.7(C)(15)(b) for open-air DC system as shown in fig. 5-28 & fig.5-29.
4. Then table 130.7(C)(15)(c) must be used to determine the personal equipment
needed to achieve the required PPE Category as shown in fig. 5-31.
if there is an arc flash hazard associated with each specific task—yes or no. If there is
an arc flash hazard, workers move to Table 130.7(C) (15)(a) or 130.7(C)(15)(b) to
find the arc flash PPE category. They then refer to Table 130.7 (C)(15)(c) which lists
the clothing and other PPE required for that category.
Workers must wear all of the PPE listed
Fig.5-27 table for Tasks which arc flash likelihood occurrence continue
Fig.5-28 table for arc flash PPE Category for task if required for A.C systems
Note : Table 130.7(C) (15)(a) or 130.7(C)(15)(b) to find the arc flash PPE category.
Fig.5-29 table for arc flash PPE Category for task if required for D.C systems
The results of all steps for this method are placed on the equipment label as shown in
fig.5-30
Note : Table 130.7 (C)(15)(c) which lists the clothing and other PPE required for that
category. Workers must wear all of the PPE listed
The results of all previous are placed on the equipment label as shown in fig.5-31
AS : As needed ( optional )
AR : As Required
SR : Selection Required
SUMMARY
All parts of the body inside the arc flash boundary shall be protected.
If clothing is ignited, it should be rapidly self-extinguishing.
PPE is a last line of defense.
Arc-rated materials, such as flame-retardant-treated cotton, meta-aramid, para-
aramid, and poly-benzimidazole (PBI) fibers, provide thermal protection.
These materials can ignite but will not continue to burn after the ignition source
is removed.
Old Arc-Rated Clothes used to be perceived as ugly, uncomfortable, expensive,
scratchy, hot and not breathable.
But New PPE are lighter, softer more breathable fabrics and to styles virtually
identical to “street clothing”.
Manufacturers is responsible to provide information regarding care, arc ratings,
and other important information that can help workers decide which piece of
PPE is right for the job.
Arc Flash- and Fire-Resistance Garments includes Underwear, Shirts,Jackets,
Trousers, Coveralls,High visibility and foul weather gear,Gloves.
Helmet Class G shells are proof-tested at 2,200 volts of electrical charge.
Helmet Class E shells are proof-tested at 20,000 volts.
Helmet Class C provides no electrical insulation.
Employees shall wear protective equipment for the eyes to protect from electric
arcs, flashes, or from flying objects resulting from electrical explosion.
Employees shall wear rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors and rubber
insulating sleeves where due to a danger of hand and arm injury from shock.
The ATPV is " the maximum incident heat energy that a fabric or material can
absorb to cause the onset of a 2nd degree burn ".
All persons exposed or could be exposed to the potential of an arc flash
occurrence shall wear appropriate PPE according to Incident Energy
Calculations.
No modifications may be made to any of the equipment issued to you.
Arc Flash Personal Protective may only be washed with ordinary soap and water.
DO NOT USE softening agents, bleach or hydrogen peroxides as this will reduce
the protection properties of the equipment.
Wear garments properly – collars closed, sleeves and cuffs down and secured.
There are two methods for the selection of arc flash PPE :
(1) The incident energy analysis method ( Engineering Analysis )
(2) The arc flash PPE category method ( Table Method )
GLOSSARY
TASK 5-1
Arc Flash Garments
OBJECTIVES
SAFETY PRECAUTION
PROCEDURE/TASK STEPS:
REVIEW EXERCISE
LESSON 6
ARC FLASH
PROTECTION RELAY
OVERVIEW
This lesson discusses the electric arc current, duration and Nature of arc and ways to
overcome its injury , also the Lesson focus on Arc Protection Relay with Light
Sensing and types of sensors, finally illustrate Arc Scheme with relay Arc System.
OBJECTIVES
Task 6-1 Arc Scheme with Relay for Fault on Cable , C.B , Bus Bar
131
132
INFORMATION SHEET
INTRODUCTION
Arc fault protection is a relatively new technique employed for the fast clearance of
arcing faults on Bus bars & within metal clad switchgear & associated cable boxes.
The arc is detected using an optical sensor & the signal input to a protection device
which also monitors the load current on the system. Conventional current based
protection techniques are at times challenged by the nature of arcing faults, and can
result in slow protection clearance times. Slow protection clearance times increase the
risk to nearby personnel and increase the degree of damage to plant and equipment.
By employing an optical detection technique, Arc Fault Protection results in fast
clearance of arcing faults
The transition from an initial arc to arc flash takes a finite time, increasing in intensity
with time. The challenge for electric arc protective devices is to sense the arc current
and quickly shut off the electrical supply before a more severe arc flash develops.
Controlling worker’s incident energy reduces the severity of burn injuries and saves
lives. Methods we use to reduce worker incident energy levels are reduce arc flash
current and clearing time (the Arc Flash Protection Relay reduces arc energy by
quickly clearing the current feeding the arc ) , move worker farther from potential arc,
wear proper Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV), Flame Resistant (FR), clothing
system, and change work method to lower arc incident energy as shown in fig. 6-1.
PROTECTION FEATURES
The Arc Relay system is a sophisticated micro-processor based arc flash protection
system with combined current and arc sensing. Combined current and arc sensing
provides an integrated dual trip criteria. It is designed to minimize the damage caused
by an arcing fault (arc flash) by tripping the circuit breaker sourcing the fault current.
Current Sensing
The main units contain four current transformer inputs that provide sensing for the
phases and ground instantaneous overcurrent elements. These elements act as a
permissive for the light sensing inputs so that when they are incorporated into the
scheme both current and light must be present to initiate a trip command. This current
information can be shared with downstream modules as well as shown in fig. 6-2.
Light Sensing
Arc flash light can be collected by either point sensors or fiber loop sensors. Up to 12
point sensors or 3 loop sensors can be connected to each module. Light sensing can
initiate a breaker trip independent of current if desired. Because point sensors are
interconnected with copper wire they can provide a much better installation for
Electrical system which can be fully wired and tested in the factory. Sensor wiring
allows daisy chaining up to three sensors over a distance of 100 meters. Fiber loop
sensors are available in either plastic or glass versions as shown in fig. 6-3 . Point
sensors are available in multiple sensitivity levels with the 8000 lux sensor being
suitable for most applications.
High temperature
The electric arc is formed when current flows through isolation material - like air or
gas - with no galvanic contact. The air becomes conductive when its temperature rises
to about 3000°C. To make the air this hot and to start an arc some kind of ignition is
required. This may be e.g. a thin wire which burns away when current flows through
it. The temperature of a burning arc is depending on the fault current, arc voltage and
cooling conditions. In short circuit situations the temperature in the center of the arc
may be up to 10.000 …20.000 K. In the contact points the temperature is smaller,
about 3000...4500 K.
Part of the arc energy flows to the environment as infrared, ultraviolet and visible light
radiation. Also radiation in the radio frequencies is generated. The radiation is
transmitted by the arc itself and the materials heated up by the arc. At the brightest the
light will be between 100..200 ms after the ignition of the arc until smoke and metal
steam will reduce the sight. Some measurements have indicated 9000 lux brightness
from 6..7 meters. The total radiation may be 1....10 W/cm2 at a distance of 1,5 meters.
This is rather high value compared e.g. to the radiation from the sun on the surface of
the earth, which is about 0,1 W/ cm2
An arc flash protection relay is a protective device used to maximize the personnel
safety and minimize the material damage of the installation (in an arc situation)
Minimized damage also means limited need for repair work and enables a rapid
restoration of the power supply.
In an arc situation, the arc protection relay immediately trips the concerned circuit
breaker(s) to isolate the fault. fig. 6-4 shows all Accessories of Protection system
scheme .
Types of Sensors
i. Wired Sensors
● Activation current 20 mA
● Activation sector 360 degrees (VA1DA)
● Six (6) meter or twenty (20) meter pair cable
● Testing possible with a strong light or camera flash
● 4kV isolation to auxiliary power
● 2kV to ground
Sensor connection
As shown in fig.6-9 each sensor has two terminals
• Limit the current, can provide fast protection (half cycle) as shown in fig. 6-12.
• High speed operation only with high current magnitudes.
• In low voltage systems the arcing fault current can be less than half the value of the
bolted fault current.
• Lower fault current may lead to longer fault clearing time.
VAMP 121 master unit based on proven VAMP 221 system technology.
Compact solution when the application doesn’t require overcurrent
measurement.
Supports connection of ten ( 10 ) arc sensors type VA 1DA - one ( 1 )
portable sensor
smoke detectors, Apollo 65 series as shown in fig. 6-14.
By using Arc Flash Relay total clearing time become fast ( very small )
CB time
e.g. 7ms + 50ms
SUMMARY
The Purpose of Arc Fault Protection technique is Fast Clearance of arcing Faults.
The arc is detected using Optical sensors which the signal input to a Protection
Relay.
The challenge for electric arc protective devices is to sense the arc current and
quickly shut off the electrical supply before a more severe arc flash develops.
Reducing worker`s Incident Energy Level by reduce arc Flash Current and
Clearance time.
The arc Relay System is a sophisticated micro-Processor based arc Flash
Protection combined current and arc sensing.
Instantaneous overcurrent elements act as a permissive for the light sensing inputs
, so both current and light must be present to initiate a trip command.
Arc flash light can be collected by either Point Sensors or Fiber Loop Sensors.
The air becomes conductive when its temperature rises to about 3000 °C
temperature in the center of the arc may be up to 10,000 …. 20,000 °K .
The brightest light will be between 100 …. 200 msec. after the ignition of the arc
until smoke and metal steam will reduce the sight.
Brightness may be 9000 Lux from 6 …..7 meters.
The thermal force produce the convection force further pushes the center of the
arc upwards.
The arc protection relay immediately trips the concerned circuit breakers to isolate
the fault .
Idea of arc or light sensor is that it converts bright of light to a current pulse.
Sensors may be :
1. Wired Sensors
2. Fiber Sensors
3. Portable Sensors
each Sensor has two terminals for connection.
Sensor mounted on L or Z Profiles.
GLOSSARY
(i) The arc is detected using ---------- sensors which the signal input to a
Protection Relay
(ii) Arc flash light can be collected by either --------- Sensors or ---------- Sensor
(iii) Sensors may be ----------- Sensors or ---------- Sensors or ----------Sensors
(iv) each Sensor has ------- terminals for connection
144
TASK
TASK 6-1
Arc Scheme with Relay for Fault on Cable , C.B , Bus Bar
OBJECTIVES
Single Line Diagram and Protection Scheme attached by Arc Light Sensors
SAFETY PRECAUTION
PROCEDURE/TASK STEPS:
3 – the Sensor transfers the light information to the relay within 1 msec.
as shown below in Fig. 1-3.
146
TASK
4 – the main transformer feeds the Fault as shown below in Fig. 1-4.
148
TASK
3 – Arc Sensor in C.B Compartment picks the arc and transfers light in to
the relay within 1 msec.as shown below in Fig. 1-9.
4 – the Fault Current cannot be measured in the outgoing feeder . therefore , the light
Information is transferred to the incomer. as shown below in Fig. 1-10.
6 – Light and Current TRIP! as shown below in Fig. 1-12 & Fig. 1-13.
150
TASK
4 – the main transformer is feeding the Fault as shown below in Fig. 1-17.
152
TASK
5 – Light and Current TRIP! as shown below in Fig. 1-18 & Fig. 1-19.
154
TASK
REFERENCES
1. NFPA 70E®, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace® 2018 Edition.
2. Copyright © 2015 PowerStudies, Inc.
3. Nomex® NEVER QUIT™ Whitepaper
4. A Guide to Performing An Arc Flash Hazard Assessment Using Power Analysis
Software ©2003 EasyPower LLC
February, 2018
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