In today’s safety conscious environment, there is growing concern and increased discussion regarding arc flash hazards. An arc flash event can expel large amounts of deadly energy in the form of a super-heated ball of gas, with arc flash temperatures reaching as high as 35 thousand degrees Fahrenheit. Without proper precautions, it can have deadly or disabling consequences for workers, and cost business owners millions per case for treatment of injuries.
In our recently published guide, we share insights on: What arc flash hazards are, how you can protect workers against these types of events, what an arc flash study entails and why you need it. We also detail the importance of partnering with engineering professionals like RTM to conduct an arc flash study and analysis.
Read a quick excerpt below and download the full guide here.
What are arc flash hazards?
When workers open live electrical panels with voltage exceeding 50V, usually for the purpose of troubleshooting an issue or metering, they are exposed to arc flash hazards. Almost all buildings have these types of hazards, and it only takes a fraction of a second for the electrical explosion to produce fire, burning flesh at distances of 10 feet or more. Arc flash temperatures can also liquefy or vaporize nearby metal including copper, aluminum conductors or steel equipment parts—resulting in explosive pressure and sound waves strong enough to throw workers across the room.
Interested in performing an arc flash analysis on your building’s electrical system? Contact RTM Principal, Tim Larson, P.E., at timothy.larson@rtmec.com to learn more.
