[October 2007]
Every year a large number of fatalities and injuries are caused by arc flash incidents. In fact, there are at least 5 arc flash incidents requiring burn centre hospitalization in North America every day. What exactly is an arc flash? It can be best described as a short circuit through the air. During an arc flash, an enormous amount of energy explodes outward from electrical equipment. It can damage a person’s hearing and eyesight, cause severe burns and even kill.
An arc flash can be emitted by any electrical device if the energy is high enough to sustain an arc. Arc flash hazards are often associated with equipment such as:
- Outdoor/Indoor Switchgear
- Substations/Transformers
- Switchboards and Panel Boards
- Motor Control Centres
- Fused Disconnects
The good news is, you can reduce the risk of arc flashes occurring in your facility. Here’s how:
- Identify the Hazards
Conduct an arc flash hazard analysis to identify areas at risk of flash. Have an expert with arc flash training, such as Dial One Wolfedale Electric, assess your facility to determine if, and where, electrical hazards exist that could threaten employees on the job.
- Training
Train employees on the hazards of arc flash, how to interpret safety labelling on equipment, how to select the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and how to proceed in the safest manner for every task. Training should be mandatory, occur on a regular basis and be delivered by a qualified training professional.
The winter season is fast approaching, and with the high cost of electricity it’s important to encourage your employers to be as energy conservative as possible. Here are some useful ideas on how to reduce costs and protect the environment by conserving energy in your workplace:
- Use the sun’s natural heat – on bright sunny days keep window blinds open.
- Keep the heat in on cloudy days and in the evening by closing window blinds.
- Don’t leave doors open needlessly, particularly large shipping and receiving doors.
- Turn off office equipment when not in use.
- Turn off electrical motors and air supply when industrial or production equipment is idle.
- Install motion-sensor lighting to turn lights off in low traffic and service areas when they are unoccupied.
- Readjust furniture that may obstruct the flow of air through heat vents.
For more tips on how to reduce consumption and take advantage of energy conservation incentives offered by your local utility, please contact Stephanie Bourne at (905) 564-8999 today!
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