Actively monitoring the work environment.Isolating conductors not being worked on.Planning work thoroughly to minimize risks. Specialized training, tools, and PPE enable qualified electrical workers to operate safely despite hazards. Strict adherence to safety protocols is required when energized work is unavoidable. However, arc flash hazards may still exist in adjacent energized equipment. With power disconnected and these precautions taken, equipment can be safely worked on. Verifying de-energized state through testing.Locking out and tagging out power controls.De-energizing equipment by turning off power.Preventing arc flash is crucial.Ĭreating an electrically safe working condition before maintenance prevents arc flash accidents. But clothing cannot fully protect against extreme arc blast forces. Importance of Preventing Arc FlashĪrc rated PPE such as suits, gloves, and hoods provide some protection by resisting heat energy. The arc flash boundary denotes the distance where incident energy equals 1.2 calories/cm2. Temperatures rapidly spike as blasts release energy. Buildup of conductive dust/corrosion on equipmentĪrc flash results from diversion of electricity outside intended routes.Accidental contact between energized components.Small mistakes can have huge consequences. High-voltage systems in facilities provide conditions promoting arc flash. Instead, it is an explosive release of energy from a flashover of electric current external to conductors and equipment. Molten metal and debris are ejected like grenade shrapnel.Īrc flash is not electricity traveling through a body like shock.Arc blast can knock workers across rooms or collapse lungs.Light and heat radiation can cause severe burns.Temperatures exceed 35,000☏, vaporizing nearby materials.Keep hands dry when working with electricity.Īrc flash occurs when electric current diverts outside intended paths, such as from dropped tools or faulty wiring.Treat equipment carefully to prevent damage.Use nonconductive wood/fiberglass ladders near electricity.Avoid using electrical equipment in wet areas when possible.Report altered plugs missing ground prongs immediately.Unplug correctly by pulling the plug, not yanking the cord.Inspect cords, plugs, and tools for damage before use.Fortunately, adhering to safe work practices reduces risks: Workers encounter numerous situations potentially resulting in shock. Removing ground prongs allows current to bypass grounding protections.Damaged extension cords and power tools expose live conductors.Moisture conducts electricity, amplifying risks.Cracked wires and defective equipment can energize metal surfaces.As little as 0.06 amps across the heart can cause cardiac arrest and death. Understanding the Dangers of Electric ShockĮlectric shock occurs when electric current passes through the body. Two major electrical hazards exist: arc flash and electric shock. But electrical accidents injure 30,000 and kill over 1,000 workers annually in the U.S. Electricity is ubiquitous in workplaces, powering buildings and equipment.
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