Essential guide: Our Critical Risk expectations
The word MUST means it is a mandatory requirement. Where you see the words YOUR CALL it means you are strongly advised to do this, but you can use your judgement.
Arc flash risks and assessment
What are the hazards?
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Intense heat, light, sound and pressure
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Severe or fatal burns from temperatures that can exceed 20,000°C.
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Fire and equipment damage
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You MUST undertake a risk assessment before carrying out work in any arc flash marked areas, consideration MUST be given to:
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is nearby electrical equipment energised
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what is the proximity of work to energised electrical equipment
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are high risk tasks being performed i.e., switching, racking of switchgear
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what is the specific potential arc flash incident energy associated with electrical equipment
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what are the approach and exclusion zone boundaries
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controls MUST be in place before work is carried out.
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Arc flash signage
You MUST be able to understand and interpret the arc flash signage, including information on:
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Available short circuit level
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System voltage
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Arc Flash protection boundary
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Arc Flash hazard category
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Minimum PPE requirements.
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Arc flash PPE
Before and after using arc flash specific PPE (Cat 2, 3 or 4 PPE) the following MUST be checked:
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inspect PPE for signs of damage such as fraying or tears
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ensure PPE Is clean and ready for next person to use
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return PPE to location where found
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report lost or damaged PPE to ensure timely replacement.
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Arc flash controls
For all work on or near live electrical equipment controls MUST be determined by the nominated competent person and reviewed and authorised by the nominated supervisor.
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Signage
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Limited approach distances
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Remote switching
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PPE
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Appropriate controls MUST be established with respect to the type of work being undertaken.
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Emergency response plan
First aid and rescue procedures MUST be established to help with any arc flash-related emergency. Consider the need for workers to be trained in first aid.
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The emergency response plan MUST be reviewed prior to work commencing.
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Workers MUST have a method to raise the alarm in the event of an emergency, this could be through using the site emergency telephone number, alarm call point activation, or radio communication with the control room.
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