An arc flash is an explosive release of energy that occurs when an electrical current is diverted from its intended path and flies through the air searching for another. This can happen when a device malfunctions, an electrical wire is frayed and exposed, or sometimes due to overwhelming surges in power beyond what equipment is rated for. It is an incredibly dangerous occurrence that can cause severe or permanent injury; even loss of life. An arc flash analysis is done to help mitigate some of the risks by informing people of calculated dangers.
Several components of an electrical work environment are taken into consideration. Electrical equipment and its components are tested and rated for specific voltages, energy output, and safety concerns are factored into the specific levels of personal protective equipment (PPE) required for the job site, and potential shortcomings and defective equipment are assessed, contained, and explained. These calculated dangers are complex in nature but can be explained simply.
Determine Overwhelmed Electrical Devices
Protective coordination studies will determine the impact of short circuits and how it will affect equipment failures and facility operations. Poorly coordinated electrical systems can cause a number of problems such as system failures and power outages. A short circuit study will determine the magnetic and thermal forces that are released into the electrical system. This will help you to know just how much energy defective devices can potentially discharge. Arc flash analysis in electrical hazards should immediately be reported to appropriate parties on a job site.
Identify Overcurrent Protection Devices
Overcurrent protection devices are things such as fuses, electromechanical circuit breakers, and power switches. If you pull too much energy from the outlets in your home, the electromechanical circuit breaker, typically in the garage, will throw a switch cutting off power to that extension of the circuit. These devices are all tested and rated for specific ranges of current. It is important to know the limitations of these devices because too high of a voltage can cause the device to become damaged and no longer functional.
Using Proper PPE 
The previous steps are important so that individuals can make sure that they are using appropriately rated PPE for the various known hazards. You need to be aware of how much energy a malfunctioning piece of equipment is capable of putting out to make an accurate decision. Included with the analysis is a recommendation on suitable levels of PPE for different electrical devices. Device producers are required to update this information as new discoveries are made.
Maintaining Safe Work Conditions
Arc flash risk assessments are required to be done every five years; although some inspection companies and device producers stay ahead of the mandated 5 years and inspect sooner. Diagrams, short circuit and coordination assessments, and code issues are made available to factories, work sites, or companies using electrical equipment. Arc flash labels are applied to products for record keeping and provide the necessary information to know how much energy can be displaced from a device. For more information on this subject, search for “arc flash analysis” online.
