Ensuring Safety with Arc Flash Boundary Stickers

The risk of arc flashes is a serious concern for workers in industries that involve electrical equipment. An arc flash can cause severe burns and even fatalities, which is why it's crucial to identify the boundaries of potential arc flash zones and take necessary precautions. One effective way to achieve this is by using arc flash boundary stickers.

What is an Arc Flash Boundary?

An arc flash boundary is the distance from a possible arc source where the incident energy falls to 1.2 calories per square centimeter. This includes equipment such as switchboards, panelboards, and meter socket enclosures that can potentially cause an arc flash. Workers inside this boundary require all parts of their body protected with personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid injury.

Why are Arc Flash Boundary Stickers Important?

Arc flash boundary stickers serve as a warning to workers about the potential hazards associated with electrical equipment. They indicate the boundaries of the arc flash zone, helping workers to stay safe by ensuring they maintain a safe distance from the equipment. The stickers also provide important information about the incident energy, working distance, and shock hazard level, which is essential for workers to know in order to perform their jobs safely.

Where Should Arc Flash Boundary Stickers be Placed?

Arc flash boundary stickers should be placed on any piece of electrical equipment where workers may need to perform tasks while it is still energized. This includes equipment such as switchboards, transformers, enclosed circuit breakers, industrial control panels, and external variable frequency drives.

What Information Should an Arc Flash Boundary Sticker Contain?

A comprehensive arc flash boundary sticker should contain the following information:

* Warning message

* Incident energy (in cal/cm2)

* Working distance

* Arc flash boundary

* Shock hazard level (volts)

* Limited approach boundary

* Restricted approach boundary

* Glove class

* Equipment and label information

Are Arc Flash Labels Required on Disconnects?

According to NFPA 70E, arc flash labels are required on any piece of electrical equipment that may need examination, adjustment, service or maintenance while energized. This includes equipment operating at 50 volts or more and 'likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized'.

Arc flash boundary stickers play a vital role in ensuring the safety of workers in industries that involve electrical equipment. By identifying potential arc flash zones and providing critical information about the hazards associated with electrical equipment, these stickers help workers stay safe and avoid injuries. It is essential for employers to ensure that all electrical equipment is properly labeled with arc flash boundary stickers to comply with NFPA 70E regulations.