RjX Engineering calculates arc flash values as required by NFPA-70E for electrical equipment throughout the system. Typically, this includes switchgear, switchboards, panelboards, motor control centers, disconnects, motor starters, and more. We use advanced analysis software for all calculations that conforms to the IEEE 1584-2018 standard for arc flash. The arc flash study includes:
Supply of arc flash labels to be applied to each location in the system with results from the analysis
Calculation of arc flash results including incident energy, arc flash boundaries, approach boundaries, and more.
Creation of multiple fault and system operating conditions to ensure conservative, worst case results
An arc flash study provides calculated Arc flash results that are reflected in arc flash labels applied in the field. This allows workers to know the magnitude of electrical hazards present and select proper PPE to mitigate these hazards.
Without an arc flash study, the hazard level and proper PPE required for work cannot be known and is an alarming liability risk. In fact, it is required by OSHA to perform an arc flash study due to 1910.269(l)(8)(ii) which states:
” For each employee exposed to hazards from electric arcs, the employer shall make a reasonable estimate of the incident heat energy to which the employee would be exposed”
Calculations are performed using industry recognized power system analysis software and in accordance with the IEEE 1854-2018 standard. Calculations are based on results from the short circuit and coordination analysis which provides maximum bolted fault currents and protective device tripping times to be used in the calculations.
Results include values such as incident energy, arc flash boundary, limited and restricted approach boundaries. These results are provided in tabular form and, critically, populate necessary fields on the arc flash label to ensure workers can appropriately select PPE.
Arc Flash labels are required to inform workers of the electrical hazards present. Labeling requirements are defined in NFPA 70E.
The information on an arc flash label is directly based on the results of the arc flash analysis. While NFPA 70E sets minimum requirements for labels, they can vary based on the site and customer policies. We print all arc flash labels in house to ensure quality and accuracy and can provide both standard labeling and custom labeling solutions to meet any client’s needs.
Arc Flash Training / NFPA 70E classes are designed to protect employees from the dangers of electrical hazards faced in the workplace every day. Ensuring your employees are properly trained in Arc Flash and 70E is the key to providing the knowledge to make sound decisions, institute safe work practices, and create a much safer facility.
