An electrical arc flash is when an electrical current diverts from its intended path and takes on a new one. The flash that is associated with an arc flash is the visible electromagnetic energy that is now mowing through the air. These accidental occurrences can happen within a few seconds, so your reaction time needs to be very good.

Electrical arc flashes are incredibly dangerous and can cause severe damage and even loss of life. Because of this, it is not a situation to be taken lightly; appropriate electrical training is needed for individuals who intend to work in the electrical field. Understanding them better is one of the best ways to keep yourself safe.

Conditions Prior To Flash

An arc flash occurs when an available conductor between two points interferes with the electrical current’s intended path. This can be a conductive metal such as a dropped tool on the circuit, liquid that comes into contact with the wiring, or open-air arc flashes. This is why it is important to thoroughly inspect your workplace and equipment before beginning any project, from which you can find training solutions from Facility Results.

Open Air Arc Flashes

Open-air arc flashes are when ionized air comes into contact with an electrical current. If there is enough ionization in the air, an electrical arc can form from something as simple as a frayed wire. Because the electrical current is flowing through the air, it is almost impossible to predict its course. It stops when the electrical source is turned off or the electrical current finds a suitable conductor.

Tracking Arc Flashes

Tracking arc flashes are electrical arc flashes that occur at a high voltage. The higher the voltage, the more electricity is flowing through the circuit. The greater the amount of electricity, the greater the risk. Tracking arcs produce higher amounts of heat and conduct through the clothes or directly through the skin and are a more common occurrence.

Physical Effects Of Arc Flashes

An arc flash produces: heat and visible light and displaces a lot of energy in a short amount of time. This can cause combustion and the vaporization of harmful elements or metal particles into the air. If there are enough particles in the air at a high enough temperature, they become plasma. Contact with this plasma is almost certainly life-threatening. All of these effects are dangerous independently of each other, and all available safety precautions should be taken ahead of time.

Risk Of Immediate Injury

There is a wide list of potential injuries that can happen during an arc flash, whether the individual involved is in direct contact or not. These injuries include burns, toxic chemical inhalation, temporary or permanent blindness from the flash, potential hearing loss, electrocution, cardiac and/or respiratory complications, and even death. Their risks are high, and anyone involved in an electrical arc flash should receive immediate medical attention.

Related: Written Electrical Safety Program: Why It’s Important and How Leaf Electrical Safety Can Help

Possible Long-Term Dangers

Surviving an electrical arc flash’s blast or direct path is an amazing feat, but it doesn’t clear you medically. Depending on the severity of the damage obtained, you may be permanently disabled or have medical complications. Cardiac and respiratory complications are at the top of the list. Other long-term problems include neuropathy, loss of sensation, muscle spasms, or even partial paralysis.

Arc Flash Safety

Proper electrical arc flash training is a requirement for most people that work in the electrical field and is OSHA regulated. People often mock OSHA standards, it’s well known amongst most tradesmen and work sites, but understand that this is not a situation to be taken lightly. These events happen spontaneously and without warning; in a split second. Knowing what to look for and what necessary safety precautions you should be taking is probably the best way to save yourself in the event of an arc flash.

Be Prepared

Always inspect your work site before you begin any project, whether you are a professional on the job adhering to safety standards or a DIY crafter at home working on a project. At the moment, things can be devastating and chaotic; having a plan for medical emergencies is to your benefit. If you intend to work in a dangerous field, you owe it to yourself and those around you to obtain the proper training.

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