Arc Flash Risk Assessment
Compliant with NFPA 70E-2025 standards.This is necessary to determine the dangerous thermal energy that will be generated in the event of a short circuit in the electrical grid and the safe working distance, in order to maximize the safety of workers.
Successful Working Procedures and Improvement Strategies for Electricians
Arc flash risk assessment is a comprehensive analysis process that determines the levels and distances at which thermal energy released in the event of a short circuit in the electrical network poses a danger, maximizing the safety of electricians and maintenance personnel. Without a risk assessment, workers may unknowingly be exposed to the risk of fire and death.
If the risk is known, appropriate protective measures can be taken and loss of life can be prevented. At AES Innovation, we ensure the worker safety of industrial facilities with detailed arc flash risk assessment procedures in accordance with IEEE 1584-2018 and NFPA 70E-2025 standards.
The first step in the arc flash risk assessment procedure is fault current calculation using the IEEE 1584 method. In this step, the amount of current that would flow in amperes (A) if a three-phase short circuit occurs in the electrical network is calculated.
Fault current calculation depends on transformer specifications, cable type, ground resistance, and network structure. Accurate arc flash analysis cannot be performed without calculating the fault current; therefore, this step is critical. Incorrect calculations will result in incorrect safety advice for electricians and increase the risk of fire.
Fault Current Calculation and IEEE Method
Arc Flash Risk Assessment
Arc Flash Risk Assessment: Comprehensive Analysis Stages
Step-by-Step Assessment:
Compilation of the Facility Electrical Diagram
The complete electrical schematic of the facility is compiled, including all transformers, cables, relay settings, opener selections, localized mounting diagrams, and control systems. Incomplete or incorrect schematics invalidate the analysis.
Fault Current Analysis
Using the IEEE 1584 method, the short-circuit current is calculated for each critical point (transformer output, main board, branch boards).
Rele Coordination and Cleaning Time
By checking the relay settings, it is determined how long the relay will take to open the operating circuit breaker if a short circuit occurs; this clearing time directly affects the arc flash energy.
Arc Flash Boundary Determination
A distance with an incident energy of 5 cal/cm² is determined; those working within this distance must wear Category 2 PPE.
Labeling and Reporting
Based on the results of the risk assessment, an NFPA 70E label is designed and affixed to the boards.
WHY AES INNOVATION?
Ark Flash: Your Professional Partner in Risk Assessment Services
At AES Innovation, we conduct comprehensive arc flash risk assessments of industrial facilities using ETAP, EasyPower, and SKM software. Our services include electrical schematic compilation, fault current calculation, relay coordination analysis, arc flash boundary determination, improvement proposal preparation, and NFPA 70E labeling implementation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electrical installation inspections are the most effective way to ensure safety and operational continuity in your workplace. At AES Innovation, our expert engineering team performs electrical inspections to the highest standards in your facilities.