Arc Flash Safety

There are 5 to 10 arc flash explosions every day in the U.S. and approximately 2,000 workers are injured or killed by arc flash explosions annually--yet I had a very difficult time finding information about arc flash hazards on the web.

An arc flash explosion happens when electric power short circuits. This can be caused by equipment malfunction or even by dirt or other foreign material getting into a switch or brbeaker. The result is a sudden explosive "flash" with temperatures exceeding 10,000 degrees. Providing workers with the proper protection, as well as properly labeling arc flash hazards are very important safety practices.

The Wire Markers web site lists a variety of good arc flash resources. They range from magazine articles to technical papers published by the government or professional associations. A few require payment of a fee to access, but most are free.