Arc Flash Incident, England

Click here for images of the results of another incident involving Arc Flash and apparently involves contractors; however, it could happen to anyone. This took place in England and the description is at the bottom. However, I’ve left the comments made by previous recipients to indicate the importance of having proper programs, training, equipment, etc. If you don’t have an Arc Flash program already in place you need to start your review now.

Make sure you have current lockout/tagout procedures in effect and that everyone is aware of them; brief them often. If, and when you contract out your electrical work make sure the contractor has, or is in the process of getting an Arc Flash program.

The attached pictures show the victims, who may all suffer from respiratory problems due to the fumes they inhaled as a result of the electrical explosion.

Make sure your team members have the knowledge to make the right decision, which should be – if I’m not trained and properly equipped I’m not doing the job!
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A true story concerning Arc Flash (NFPA 70E) 480 volt ARC FLASH

Arc flash analysis, training and the right PPE would have gone a long way to eliminate or minimize this incident. How many of your clients are conducting this work and following all of the proper safeguards?
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All:

This is a prime example of what can happen if one does not follow the correct safe guards, OSHA Regulations, LOTO and Arc Flash Procedures (arc flash analysis, proper PPE, distance, warning labels per specific electrical equipment, etc) and especially have an Arc Flash Analysis performed on the electrical equipment. There are companies that performed detailed Arc Flash Analysis’.
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The proper PPE would have significantly reduced the injuries, if not eliminated them. A face shield, proper shirt, etc. would have made a difference. The biggest problem, is flash arc is not common, so people don’t expect it. Then serious injuries occur. Please examine your electrical work and if it fits under the flash arc hazard, wear all of the proper PPE (Face Shield, safety glasses, proper clothing, gloves, etc.)

SAFETY LEADS SUCCESS
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(From the originator)

The incident happened in England.

The Electrical and OSHA standards are very specific as to the training and PPE requirements to prevent this type of accident. We have a responsibility to assure all of the training requirements have been met and the PPE is available.

This incident took place while the contractor asked for getting Breaker information. However; they did not take a work permit and tried to remove the breaker without permission that caused an electrical flash over. This incident gives us a lesson will be discussed and communicate with all of us to avoid such
incident to occur.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

On 03/04/2009 at 08:40 hours an electrical flashover was reported while the contractor was trying to find the information regarding 480 KV breakers. This resulted in injuring three contractors employees; one with first degree burn and two with 2nd degree burns. All the victims were transported to clinic for first aid treatment and then transported to a hospital for further examination and treatment.

Thanks for the share CVS!