Arc flash is one of the biggest risks in workplaces that utilize electrical systems. An arc flash could result in serious burns, blindness, or even death, which makes it so dangerous.
In order to prevent such dangers from happening, several organizations, such as OSHA and NFPA, have set guidelines, especially for arc flash, that mention the arc flash label must be correctly placed.
Arc flash labels contain important messages to discuss the kinds of risks that exist in electrical equipment. These labels contain practical data, including the energy level within the system, suggested personal protection equipment, permissible distances for operation, etc.
Labeling of electrical equipment is important for following OSHA and NFPA 70E regulations, and protecting employees from electrical risks.
How Arc Flash Labeling Supports OSHA Compliance
OSHA requirements for electrical workplaces, under Standard 1910.335, stress the importance of knowing about the electrical dangers in the workplace. OSHA requires all employees to be trained in the identification of electrical hazards and how to overcome them.
Labels that refer to arc flash are part of this training. They assist the employees in determining the extent of risk in a particular electrical panel or a device or equipment and guides them on how to choose the right personal protective gear as well as which precaution procedures to follow.
High quality arc flash labeling work towards creating a safer workplace and assist the employer in avoiding OSHA electrical safety standards violations, thus avoiding the associated legal consequences.
Meeting NFPA 70E Standards with Arc Flash Labeling
There is another standard, NFPA 70E, which also provides guidelines to maintain electrical safety in the workplace. This standard calls for employers to evaluate electrical risks and develop measures of protection.
NFPA 70E has guidelines for carrying out a hazard assessment, including the arc flash, to evaluate the risk of working near or on electrical equipment.
Identification of arc flash hazards essentially involves labeling. Information that should be incorporated on the labels may include the incident energy level in calories per square centimeter, the arc flash boundary, and the personal protective equipment.
By doing so, employers can guarantee compliance with NFPA 70E by ensuring their electrical systems are up to standard and that employees undertaking work close to or on live electrical parts are sufficiently protected.
The Role of Arc Flash Labeling in Electrical Safety Programs
An appropriate labeling system will help employees easily access safety information and avoid electrical-related accidents or injuries.
It assists employees in understanding the various dangers involved in the use of equipment, integrating processes to improve workplace safety.
However, arc flash labels require routine updates in order to be effective. There is a need to redesign labels as electrical systems change through the addition of new equipment, modification of power levels, or alteration of safety standards.
Employers must also ensure that labels are kept up to date, which will guarantee adherence to OSHA and NFPA 70E, and other safety standards.
