![]() ![]() They can also lead to permanent disabilities, such as blindness, hearing loss, nerve damage, and cardiac arrest.Ĭommercial building owners and operators should regularly evaluate their electrical equipment and systems, and implement proper maintenance and safety protocols to minimize the risk of these incidents. These incidents can cause serious injuries, including third-degree burns and potential death. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the hazards and take appropriate measures to prevent them, especially if you’re part of the commercial building industry. A typical arc flash event is often accompanied by extraordinary heat (approximately three times hotter than the surface of the sun), a bright flash, a loud noise, and the expulsion of shrapnel and vaporized metal. Dangers of Arc FlashĪrc flash incidents can have devastating consequences for anyone unfortunate enough to experience them. In some cases, outdated or improperly rated equipment may also contribute to arc flashing and should be replaced with proper equipment. Electrical systems must be regularly inspected to reduce the risk of arc flash incidents resulting from faulty wiring. In addition, overloaded circuits can also lead to such incidents. This can be due to improper installation, damage to the wire or connectors, or a buildup of dirt or corrosion. Faulty WiringĪnother common cause is faulty wiring. These simple precautions can go a long way in reducing the risk. Another critical step is ensuring that only trained individuals handle and operate electrical equipment, as improper use can further damage insulation and result in an arc flash. ![]() Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and address insulation issues before they lead to a dangerous situation. Even seemingly minor signs of damage, such as cracked insulation or frayed wires, can increase the risk of arc flashes. Under the right conditions, electrical current can jump the air gap between conductive materials, resulting in a powerful energy release. When insulation on equipment becomes worn or deteriorated, it can expose energized electrical components. One of the leading causes of arc flashes is damaged insulation on electrical wire or equipment. Main Causes of an Arc Flashĭamaged Insulation on Electrical Equipment ![]() An experienced electrician should be consulted, for inspecting and maintaining electrical systems, on a regular basis in order to ensure safe operations, and to minimize the risk of any hazardous incident. ![]() That’s why commercial building owners and operators should properly manage and maintain their electrical systems to mitigate such incidents from occurring. Arc flashes are one of the leading causes of injury and death in the electrical industry. The resulting explosion can cause property damage, severe injury, and, in the worst case, death. They can be caused by faulty wiring or equipment, accidental contact with live wires, or damage to the system. Arc flashes can occur in any electrical equipment, including those found in commercial buildings. It occurs when a high current travels through the air rather than flowing along the intended conductive path. What is an Arc Flash?Īn arc flash is an explosion of energy resulting from a fault within an electrical system. In this blog, we’ll discuss the causes of arc flashes and share some tips for preventing them. If you’re in the commercial building industry, it’s essential to understand what causes arc flashes and how to prevent them. Did you know that an arc flash incident can cause serious injury or death? Arc flashes are silent killers, and they can occur without any warning. ![]()
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