FAQ’s
Training Q & A’s
How do I schedule a class ?
We make it as simple as possible to set up a class at your place. If you have an area that the training can be conducted, we will provide the class material, the projector, the instructor, and basically everything but the chairs and tables for your crew to sit. To schedule a class, simply call us at 866-851-9993 and we’ll provide a hassle-free quote that includes all charges… no hidden fees. What the quote says is the final price that you pay. Once you approve it, we’ll set the next available date that works best for you. It’s really easy! Just give our friendly staff a call today.
Why doesn’t ITU offer other classes ?
ITU is a provider of award winning industrial maintenance training. We make sure we do what we do…Right! While some training companies claim to do many types of training. ITU does Industrial Maintenance Training… That’s what we do…and we do it right…for YOU!
Who are the instructors ?
ITU instructors are engineers and maintenance people who have had at least fifteen years of experience in the field that they are teaching, in addition to formal training. We hire only veteran maintenance people so you can rest assured that the instruction you get is accurate and up to date.
What credits or certifications apply to these classes?
All of our training programs and classes are audited and accredited by the American Association of Certified Engineers and Trainers ( AACET). Each class offers continuing education credits through AACET. In addition, select training programs are fully accredited through the North American College Accreditation Foundation and in conjunction with Vincennes University.
When is the next class?
While ITU conducts occasional public seminars in various major cities around the USA, the next class is whenever you want it. Our staff will arrange training “At-Your-Place” to provide you with the best learning experience. Call 866-851-9993 TODAY to speak with a member of our Project Coordination Team.
Arc Flash Analysis Q & A’s
Where can I get an Arc Flash Analysis ?
ITU is a leader in Electrical Engineering and Arc Flash Analysis Services. Visit our Arc Flash website to see more information about the required effort that will make your facility a safer place to work.
What is an Arc Flash Analysis?
An Arc Flash Analysis is a study investigating a worker’s potential exposure to dangerous arc- flash energy, conducted for the purpose of injury prevention and the determination of safe work practices, arc flash protection boundary, and the appropriate levels of PPE.
Why do I need to do an Arc Flash Analysis?
The National Fire Protection Association’s 70E publication (NFPA) 2000, Part II 2-1.3.3 regarding Arc Flash Analysis states that a “Flash Hazard Analysis shall be done before a person approaches any exposed electrical conductor or circuit part that has not been placed in an electrical safe work condition”. This Arc Flash Hazard Analysis must be done to determine the level of Personal Protection Equipment PPE that a worker must use, and the Arc Flash Boundary in inches along with the incident energy found at each location. Each panel must be marked with an ANSI z535 approved Arc Flash Warning Label.
Does OSHA require an Arc Flash Analysis?
OSHA requires employers to obtain, and supply all employees working on or around energized electrical equipment with the “Correct PPE”. OSHA states that employers are to use “Industry Consensus such as NFPA70E” to determine the level of PPE required prior to work being performed. NFPA70E or in other words “the National Fire Code” states that an Arc Flash Analysis “MUST BE DONE” to determine the level of PPE required. OSHA inspectors are instructed to use the NFPA70E as a guide to determine if an employer acted properly during an investigation. OSHA is levying fines against employers under the general duty clause for workers that do not provide the correct PPE.
What Electrical Panels need to be done ?
The National Electrical Code, NFPA 70E and OSHA list that all panel boards, switch panels, fuse panels, breaker panels, motor control centers, motor control panels be surveyed and labeled with the ANSI approved label. IN ADDITION… the list is concluded by stating “Any panel likely to be serviced by a worker” SO, that means any electrical enclosure such as disconnects and machinery attached to the “hard wired” electrical system in your facility.
What kind of standards must I follow?
This Arc Flash Analysis must be performed to determine the available arc fault currents and arc flash hazards. The most effective ways are based on the NFPA 70E or IEEE 1584 methods. Both of these methods are acceptable methods to use and are allowed by OSHA to comply with these arc flash regulations. OSHA recommends that the Arc Flash Analysis be done by an independent consulting firm to reduce any bias that may occur when done in-house.
Do I need a One Line Drawing and all that stuff?
OSHA requires that “If You Have” an One Line diagram of your electrical system, that it be kept up to date. Meaning that every change must be recorder in that drawing. HOWEVER, you are not required to have a one line diagram of your facilities electrical system. Given, This is a very useful tool to have when servicing your electrical system, and ITU can render that drawing for you. THIS IS IMPORTANT WHEN CHOOSING A CONSULTANT… Most engineering companies use a “Canned” software program that requires them to construct a one line drawing while conducting your Arc Flash Analysis. They want YOU to pay for that service! While we rely on Computers to do the Arc Flash Calculations, we do not require that you obtain this expensive One Line Diagram that other consultants do. This lowers the cost to you significantly!
Why can’t I just use default tables to get the information?
The regulations clearly state that an Arc Flash Analysis must be performed to determine these values. By performing a proper arc flash analysis by calculation, you insure that your workers are using the proper personal protection equipment ( PPE ) and other proper safety equipment is being used.
Why is this OSHA stuff so hard to understand?
Well the fact is… the OSHA stuff , while written in typical government jargon may seem a bit confusing. Most of the confusion comes from Engineering and Consultants wanting you to be confused, leading you to hire them to do the work. AND while we are one of those Engineering and consulting firms out there…
Here is ITU’s promise to you:
We won’t try to mislead you into paying for something that you don’t need in order to get into compliance with these OSHA regulations. We’ll give you an honest assessment of your electrical system, and do it in a way that it makes sense. We Guarantee it… That’s our promise!
What services are provided by ITU ?
Industrial Training University’s dedication to providing both engineering and education services is second to none. From assisting venues such as Indiana Workforce Development’s training initiative through Vincennes University, Indiana’s oldest college founded by the nations ninth President William Henry Harrison. ITU has has over 100 years of experience in the Industrial Technology fields. ITU has assisted groups such as the Trident Nuclear support of the U.S. Navy, many of the Fortune 500 companies, along with colleges, power plants, and service groups across the nation. In addition to our award winning electrical training and engineering services, our engineering staff has developed and designed equipment and or courses being used by many prominent training and seminar companies along with a host of large corporate in-house training departments.
We offer:
- Short Circuit Analysis and Arc Fault Studies
- Complete OSHA Arc Flash Analysis with Certification
- Labeling of electrical panel as per OSHA and NFPA standards
- ANSI approved Arc Flash Labels
- Training for NFPA 70E Electrical Safety
- OSHA 40 Hazmat and Safety Training
- Arc Flash potential reduction consulting
- Mock OSHA Inspections to find violation potentials
Industrial Training University performs an average of four Arc Flash Analysis a month for companies and facilities across the entire USA. Our fast turn-a-round, Our exclusive “One Trip” policy, and non intrusive procedure, means all of the work is done without any down time, lost production, or intrusion to your company or your workers. Reference are available upon request… Our best sales staff is our past customers.
More Q & A’s about Arc Flash
What is an arc?
An arc is the flow of current through the air between phase conductors or phase conductors and neutral or ground. An arcing fault can release tremendous amounts of concentrated radiant energy at the point of the arcing in a small fraction of a second resulting in extremely high temperatures up to 35,000 degrees F, a tremendous pressure blast up to 2100 PSF, and shrapnel hurling at high velocity (in excess of 700 miles per hour).
Why are the standards for arc flash changing?
In 2002, the National Electrical Code (NEC) expressed a need for an arc flash warning label to be attached to certain equipment. Again in 2005, the NEC was updated with even more requirements. The NFPA 70E “Electrical Safety in the Workplace ” publication made it mandatory for all non-dwelling facilities to follow these regulations. The OSHA 1910 publication further supports these regulations.
What is one calorie?
A calorie is the energy required to raise one gram of water one degree Celsius at one atmosphere. The onset of second-degree burns will occur at 1.2 calories per centimeter squared per second. One calorie per centimeter squared per second, can be equal to holding your finger over the tip of the hottest part of the flame of a cigarette lighter for one second.
Are all arcs equal?
No. You must conduct a hazardous assessment to determine the level (intensity) of energy from the arc in calories. From that you can determine the proper PPE needed.
What causes an Electrical Arc?
An arc occurs when electric current flows between two or more separated energized conducting surfaces. Some arcs are caused by human error. Another common cause of an arc is equipment or conductor insulation failure. Build-up of dust, impurities, and corrosion on insulating surfaces can provide a path for current. Sparks produced during racking in and out of breakers, replacement of fuses, and closing into faulted lines can also produce an arc.
Can I be exposed to an arc flash?
The exposure to arc flash depends on……how often a worker performs a task involving exposed live equipment….the complexity of the task performed, action performed, available space, safety margins, reach, etc….the training, skills, mental and physical agility, coordination with helper….the types of tools used….the condition of equipment.
Exposure to arc flash does what?
Exposure to an arc flash can result in a variety of serious injuries and in some cases death. Workers have been injured even though they were a considerable distance away from the arc center. Worker injuries can include damaged workers’ hearing, eyesight, and severe burns requiring years of healing and rehabilitation.
What are steps I can take to reduce my risk to arc flash exposure?
Preventive maintenance, worker training, and an effective safety program can significantly reduce arc flash exposure. Preventive maintenance should be conducted on a routine basis to ensure safe operation. As part of a preventive maintenance program, equipment should be thoroughly cleaned and routine inspections should be conducted by qualified personnel who understand how to uncover loose connections, overheated terminals, discoloration of nearby insulation, and pitted contacts. A comprehensive preventive maintenance plan should also include:
- Using corrosion resistant terminals and insulate exposed metal parts, if possible.
- Sealing all open areas of equipment to ensure rodents and birds cannot enter.
- Verifying that all relays and breakers operate properly.
How do you determine what PPE is required?
In order to select the proper PPE, incident energy must be known at every point where workers may be required to perform work on energized equipment. These calculations need to be performed by a qualified person such as an electrical engineer. All parts of the body that may be exposed to the arc flash need to be covered by the appropriate type and quality of PPE. Proper PPE can include Flame Resistant clothing, helmet or headgear, face shield, safety glasses, gloves, shoes, etc. depending upon the magnitude of the arc energy.
What standards regulate arc flash hazards?
There are four main regulations governing arc flash. They include:
OSHA Standards 29-CFR, Part 1910. Occupational Safety and Health Standards. 1910 sub part S (electrical) Standard number 1910.333 specifically addresses Standards for Work Practices and references NFPA 70E.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 70 – 2002 “The National Electrical Code” (NEC) contains requirements for warning labels.
NFPA 70E 2004 provides guidance on implementing appropriate work practices that are required to safeguard workers from injury while working on or near exposed electrical conductors or circuit parts that could become energized.
Who enforces these new standards?
OSHA is an enforcer of safety practices in the workplace.
OSHA 1910.132(d), and 1926.28(a) states that the employer is responsible to assess the hazards in the work place, select, have, and use the correct PPE, and document the assessment. Though OSHA does not, per se, enforce the NFPA 70E standard 2004 Edition, OSHA considers the NFPA standard a recognized industry practice and the administration’s field inspectors carry with them a copy of the NFPA 70E and use it to enforce safety procedures related to arc flash. Citations and fines are usually issued based on the employers failure to meet the general duty clause of OSHA 1910. Fines can be as high as $500,000.00 per incident.
The employer is required to conduct hazard assessment in accordance with 29CFR1910.132(d)(1). Employers who conduct the hazard/risk assessment, and select and require their employees to use PPE, as stated in the NFPA 70E standard 2004 Edition, are deemed in compliance with the Hazard Assessment and Equipment Selection OSHA Standard.
Electrical inspectors across the country are now enforcing the new labeling requirements set forth in the 2008 National Electric Code (NEC).
How does an effective preventive maintenance program reduce arc flash hazards?
A preventive maintenance program on protective devices is recommended as part of the arc flash program. All arc flash calculations require the arc clearing time in order to determine incident energy and establish the flash protection boundary. The clearing time is derived from the engineering coordination study based on what the protective devices are supposed to do. If maintenance and testing is not performed, it could result in extended clearing times, unintentional time delays, open or shunted current transformers, open coils or dirty contacts. All of these factors could cause the results of flash hazard analysis to be inaccurate—causing the flash protection boundary to potentially be inaccurate. This could also affect the recommendations for the proper PPE. It is recommended that facilities adopt NFPA 70B Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance.
What data is required to be on the new arc flash warning labels?
The NEC 110.16 requires the label states the existence of an arc flash hazard and the corrective action to take. The label must meet ANSI Z525 sign standard.
The label should include more information on the specific parameters of the hazard including:
- The risk hazard category
- Flash Protection Boundary
- Incident energy at 18” expressed in cal/cm2
- PPE required
- Voltage shock hazard
- Limited shock approach boundary
- Restricted shock approach boundary
- Prohibited shock approach boundary
- The date of the Warning Label (Canada) _Coming soon to U.S.
How do I determine the flash protection boundary?
The flash protection boundary is based on voltage, available short-circuit current and predicted fault duration. The NFPA 70E provides acceptable methods that should be implemented by a qualified Electrical Engineer.
What is the difference between NFPA 70E and IEEE 1584 calculations?
NFPA 70E method estimates incident energy based on a theoretical maximum value of power dissipated by arcing faults. This is believed to be generally conservative. In contrast, IEEE 1584 estimates incident energy with empirical equations developed from statistical analysis of measurements taken from numerous laboratory tests. Both examples are designed to provide adequate information to determine the correct level of PPE that a worker should be wearing.
What data is required for an Arc Flash Study?
Depending on the method of calculation, you will need to determine the type of enclosure, gap between exposed conductors, grounding type, phases/connection, and working distance.
What is the hazard/risk category?
The hazard/risk category is specified as a number representing the level of danger, which depends upon the incident energy. The category ratings range from 0 to 5 where category 0 represents little or no risk, and category 5 is the most dangerous.
When is it okay to work on “energized” or “live” equipment?
It is always preferable to work on de-energized equipment. However, OSHA regulations state in 1910.333 (a) that workers should not work on live equipment (greater than 50 volts) except for one of two reasons:
1) De-energizing introduces additional or increased hazards such as cutting ventilation to a hazardous location, or
2) Infeasible due to equipment design or operational limitations such as when voltage testing is required for diagnostics. When it is necessary to work on energized equipment you should follow safe work practices including assessing the risks, wearing proper PPE, and using the proper tools.
How can equipment design impact arc flash hazards?
The incident energy exposure caused by an arc flash can be affected by the system configuration, system fault levels, and exposure time. System fault levels can be reduced by changing the system configuration to reduce available fault current, and by using current limiting devices such as fuses, breakers, and reactors. Using faster acting relays and trip devices can reduce arcing time or exposure time. A protective device coordination study should also be conducted to ensure proper device settings. Instantaneous relays could also improve clearing times limiting the arc exposure time. Fuse sizes should also be evaluated to determine if a smaller fuse could be used since smaller fuses reduce the exposure time.
What is “incident energy”?
Incident energy is defined in NFPA 70E as, “the amount of energy impressed on a surface, a certain distance from the source, generated during an electrical arc event.”
What is an “electrically safe work condition”?
An electrically safe work condition is defined as a state in which the conductor or circuit part to be worked on or near has been disconnected from energized parts, locked/tagged in accordance with established standards, tested to ensure the absence of voltage, and grounded if determined necessary.
What is an arc flash hazard?
An arc flash hazard is defined in NFPA 70E as a dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc.
Why should I have a short circuit and protective device coordination study performed prior to the arc flash hazard analysis?
The Petroleum and Chemical Industry Committee (PCIC) recommends that Arc Flash Calculations be completed in conjunction with Short Circuit Calculations and Protective Device Coordinations to help ensure that the most accurate Arc Flash Hazard results were achieved. Arc Flash Hazard Boundaries are based on voltage, available short-circuit current and predicted fault duration.
What is the flash protection boundary?
The flash protection boundary is the distance from the arc source at which the potential incident heat energy from an arcing fault falling on the surface of the skin is 1.2 calories/cm2.
What is “Limited Approach Boundary”?
The limited approach boundary defines a boundary around exposed live parts that may not be crossed by “unqualified” persons unless accompanied by “qualified” persons.
What is “Restricted Approach Boundary”?
The restricted approach boundary is the area near the exposed live parts that may be crossed only by “qualified” persons using appropriate shock prevention techniques and equipment.
What is “Prohibited Approach Boundary”?
The prohibited approach boundary is the area near exposed live parts that may be crossed only by “qualified” persons using same protection as if direct contact with live parts is planned. This is defined by the nominal voltage.
What is the definition of a “qualified” person?
A qualified person is one who has received documented training in the hazards of working on energized equipment in general, and has been trained in the hazards of the particular equipment to be serviced. Training must include the use and proper application of PPE.
What data is required for a Short Circuit Analysis?
Typical data that is required for a short circuit analysis includes the equipment type, voltage, MVA/KVA, impedance, S/R ratio, and phases/connection.
What data is required for Protective Device Coordination Study?
For relays you will need to determine the relay type, CT ratio, pickup (tap) setting, delay type (curve) and setting time dial. For fuses you’ll need the fuse type, amp rating, voltage, and peak let-through current. For circuit breakers you will need the circuit breaker type, fault clearing time, pickup setting, delay curve, and delay setting.
What is an Arc Flash Study/Analysis?
An Arc Flash Study/Analysis is an engineering study that determines the amount of current that could flow at any point in an electrical system, and the timing required for the nearest circuit protective device to operate to clear a fault.
