Arc flash study announced

A multi-year initiative by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the National Fire Protection Association on arc flash hazards and how to protect electrical workers from them was announced last week.

The U.S. Department of Labor cites arc flash as causing an inordinate number of electrical worker deaths and serious injuries, with one company reporting 80 percent of its electrical injuries resulting from art flash burns.

More than 2,000 test protocols are planned for the research project, which will measure thermal energy transfer, the toxicity of gases released and energy radiated at infrared, visible, ultra-violet, x-ray and other wavelengths.

The program will yield many dividends, from improving worker safety to helping companies boost operating efficiency and lower workers’ compensation costs. It will also help electrical equipment manufacturers develop safer products.

Corporations have contributed $1.25 million for the project and more donations are being solicited. Contact IEEE at 732-562-3817 or NFPA at 617-984-7400 for information.