What are the dangers of arc flash?

Answer 1

An arc flash occurs when electrical current jump from one conductor to another. An arc flash is like a spark on steroids, as it is a high energy, short duration current flow through the air.

Because of the high energy, very high temperatures are created. The air in the gap is heated and expands; the conductors at each end of the flash are heated and vaporized in less than one cycle. The resulting gas/vapor expansion is explosive and extremely hot.

The dangers to people include

• explosive pressures that can throw people across a room
• essentially instantaneous ignition of combustible clothing, including silks and cottons
• severe burns, including 4th degree burns
• death

Approximately 5% of arc flash victims die, and another 20% are permanently disabled. The remaining survivors often have not fully recovered after decades of continuing treatment, some requiring multiple surgeries each year.

In addition, the arc blast resulting from the arc flash can severely damage equipment, to the extent that equipment enclosures are shredded and become dangerous shrapnel.

Burns can effect unprotected people many yards away from the flash point, as can the blast and shrapnel.

Answer 2

Arc flash incidents can result in serious injuries or even fatalities due to the extreme heat, light, and pressure generated. Workers can suffer from severe burns, hearing damage, vision impairment, and other injuries. Additionally, arc flash incidents can cause extensive damage to equipment and facilities, leading to costly repairs and downtime.