Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Some Common Questions About Arc Flash Analysis

By Paula Barron


An arc flash analysis is needed to ensure safety of worker at certain facilities. Here, basic questions about arcs and the hazard they pose will be answered. It is necessary that precautions be taken and measures be in place to ensure that those who work around electrical equipment are not harmed by it in any scenario.

The very first question, naturally, is, what is an arc? It is simply the flowing of current between two individual electricity conducting surfaces. At the focus of the arc, very high temperatures are created. In fact, temperatures reached may be higher than those at the surface of the sun.

Many things make such a phenomenon possible. For one, workers who are careless or not well trained may inadvertently cause this to happen. Then again, it may be breakdown of equipment that leads to such a situation. Maintenance of the facility and devotion to safety procedures is what is needed to avert such a situation.

It is possible that a worker may be exposed to this hazard. This depends on a number of factors. Having to deal often with equipment that is live is one way of being exposed to it. It is necessary that equipment be maintained well and periodically and thoroughly examined to reduce chances of such an accident. Again, workers must be trained well so that they do not commit mistakes which lead to such threats to themselves or their colleagues.

However, companies who want to make a quick buck see the arc flash analysis job as merely a business opportunity. They know that compliance with the new standards is required, and claim to be able to carry out tests that will make your facility secure. However, in some cases, these claims may have nothing substantial behind them and the tests carried out may do nothing to help your workplace and to make it a better one for employees when it comes to safety.

Do not have anything to do with companies which seem dishonest and tell you that they can cut costs for you and make it seem like you have complied with standards even though the facility is not a safe as it can be made. This is unethical and may be a big problem for you in the future. Only talk to companies which have a valid license to examine your facility for risks, and check up on background information of the company.

Very low prices are not to be expected in such a situation, and if they are offered, you can be certain something is amiss. Do not fall for freebies that are offered by a company, as it is simply bait to buy their services which are most likely not professional or thorough. See that the company uses the best tools available for the testing of your workplace.

Many companies have cropped up which masquerade as experts and say they will help you with meeting safety requirements, however, a lot of them are fake. It is important that you have preventive measures in place, such as upgradation of equipment and personal protection equipment for employees, and the changes you need to make can only be decided when you have a good company carry out arc flash analysis for you.




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