Safe Work Procedure: Arc Flash Protection

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the safety measures and protocols for protecting workers from arc flash hazards during electrical work. It applies to all employees working on or near exposed, energized parts of electric circuits, particularly in environments where the risk of arc flash is present.

This procedure is applicable in environments such as electrical substations, power generation facilities, and any location where electrical maintenance or installation work is performed.

Related procedures include electrical safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines.

2. Definitions

Arc Flash
A dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc.

Incident Energy
The amount of energy impressed on a surface, a certain distance from the source, generated during an electrical arc event.

Arc Rating
The maximum incident energy resistance demonstrated by a material (or a layered system of materials) prior to breakopen or at the onset of a second-degree burn.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure all workers are trained in arc flash safety and PPE use.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and procedures.

3.2 Workers

• Follow all safety procedures and use PPE as required.
• Report any unsafe conditions or incidents immediately.
• Participate in safety training and drills.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Monitor compliance with safety procedures.
• Assist in the investigation of incidents.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Arc Flash	Severe burns, injury, or death	Use of appropriate PPE, maintaining safe distances, and following safety protocols [1]
Electric Shock	Injury or fatality	Insulation, grounding, and use of insulated tools [2]
Fire	Burns, property damage	Flame-resistant clothing and fire extinguishers [1]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is crucial for protection against arc flash hazards.

• Arc-rated clothing - Must have an arc rating greater than or equal to the incident energy [1].
• Rubber insulating gloves - For work on or near energized parts [3].
• Face shield and hard hat - With an arc rating suitable for the estimated incident energy [4].
• Safety glasses - To protect against flying debris.
• Hearing protection - To protect against noise from arc blasts.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged or worn items.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is essential for safety.

• Insulated tools - For working on or near energized parts [2].
• Voltage detectors - To verify de-energization.
• Lockout/tagout devices - To ensure equipment is de-energized.
• Fire extinguishers - For emergency use in case of fire.

Inspect tools and equipment regularly and maintain them in good condition.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in electrical safety, arc flash hazards, and the use of PPE.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and safety measures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clear of unnecessary personnel and flammable materials.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Assess the Work Area

• Identify potential arc flash hazards.
• Determine the incident energy and select appropriate PPE [1].

Step 2: De-energize Equipment

• Follow lockout/tagout procedures.
• Verify de-energization with a voltage detector.

Step 3: Perform the Task

• Use insulated tools and maintain safe distances.
• Continuously monitor for any changes in conditions.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Maintain a safe distance from energized parts.
• Use barriers and signs to restrict access to the work area.
• Ensure all PPE is worn correctly and consistently.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

• Evacuate the area immediately in case of an arc flash.
• Call emergency services and provide first aid if necessary.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Arc Flash Incident - Use fire extinguishers if safe to do so and provide first aid.
• Electric Shock - Disconnect power and provide CPR if trained.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents and near-misses immediately. Conduct a thorough investigation to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

12. References and Related Documents

• IEEE Std 1584b-2011
• ASTM F1506-10a
• Oregon OSHA Rules 437-002-2311

---

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

Safety powered by SALUS