Protecting against arc flash hazards: OSHA updates guidance

Washington — OSHA has updated its guidance on protecting workers from arc flash hazards.

Protecting Employees from Electric-Arc Flash Hazards includes tips for employers on implementing administrative controls and using personal protective equipment, along with identifying and assessing hazards.

“This new guidance is a game-changer and could not have come at a more appropriate time,” Scott Margolin, chair of the Partnership for Electrical Safety, said in a press release. “In addition to the hundreds of thousands of electricians currently being asked to work without lifesaving PPE, we’re at an inflection point. Our country is investing in renewing the grid, [electric vehicles] and DC chargers as the electrification of America continues. 

“OSHA recently made NFPA 70B – maintenance of electrical gear – a standard as well. This is fantastic progress, but will expose far more American workers – many of whom will have less training, experience and PPE – to potential arc hazards, injuries and fatalities. OSHA’s guidance update was imperative to clarify requirements and improve safety now.”

For workers, OSHA has documents on:

• Arc flash hazard awareness
• Establishing boundaries around arc flash hazards
• Common myths about electrical work

In both the Common Electrical Work Myths document and the new guidance document, the agency covers two myths relating to energized work and justified energized work.

“Many workers mistakenly assume that they do not need arc-rated or arc-flash rated PPE because they are not performing energized work,” OSHA says. “Employees must understand that work on deenergized equipment is not the same as an electrically safe working condition.” Deenergizing is just one step toward an ESWC, OSHA says, and it doesn’t eliminate electrical hazards.

“Additionally, there is a common myth among employees that the justified energized work they are performing is electrically safe. Even when work is considered ‘justified,’ strict safety measures must be implemented and followed to minimize the risks associated with electrical hazards.”

OSHA also has a short video showing the differences between wearing and not wearing AR clothing during an arc flash incident.

“Although OSHA regulations are in place to protect workers, arc flash incidents continue to occur, highlighting the need for increased awareness,” OSHA Deputy Assistant Secretary Jim Frederick said in a statement to Safety+Health. “Our new guidance highlights how arc flashes happen and emphasizes the need for arc-flash rated PPE to prevent injuries. Our goal is to ensure workers are properly protected.

“We thank the Partnership for Electrical Safety for amplifying our message and sharing these lifesaving resources.”