By embracing digital solutions and adhering to emerging standards like NFPA 70B, the industry can foster a safer working environment and uphold its commitment to protecting personnel from electrical hazards.
By Antonio Di Vaira
Arc flash incidents continue to pose significant risks in commercial and industrial (C&I) buildings, despite advancements in safety protocols and technologies. This persistent threat stems from human factors such as complacency, insufficient training, and misunderstanding of safety standards, alongside equipment-related issues such as aging infrastructure lacking modern safety features and inadequate maintenance practices. These events contribute to injuries, equipment damage, and economic losses. Sometimes, arc flash incidents can even tragically lead to fatalities.
At the recent National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Conference, experts highlighted several critical trends and challenges currently shaping the industry鈥檚 approach to mitigating these
hazards.
Understanding the Frequency and Severity
Recent research, including a comprehensive study by Johns Hopkins University, sheds light on the prevalence and impact of arc flash incidents in non-residential buildings. The study analyzed a decade of data, revealing that while the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported thousands of electrical incidents annually, only a fraction of them are officially categorized as arc flash events by safety agencies like OSHA. This underreporting underscores the need for better data collection and standardized reporting practices to accurately assess the true scope of the problem.
Data from various sources, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and Department of Energy (DOE) provide insights into these incidents, but lack a comprehensive, unified database specifically for arc flash events.
The BLS offers an overview of occupational electrical injuries, while OSHA and NIOSH provide more detailed investigation reports on a subset of incidents, covering a range of equipment and operational scenarios. However, challenges such as limited technical details and varied reporting standards across databases hinder a complete understanding and effective mitigation of arc flash risks.
Analysis of 1,291 investigation reports spanning from the early 1980s to 2022 revealed that arc flash incidents occur across a spectrum of voltage levels and equipment types, often involving common tools like screwdrivers. The reports highlight the diverse contexts in which incidents occur鈥攆rom routine maintenance to unexpected operational activities鈥攗nderscoring the complexity of mitigating arc flash risks. Improved data collection and standardization efforts are essential to address these challenges, promoting a safer working environment through informed policy and procedural enhancements. Enhanced reporting granularity and metadata structuring could significantly aid in refining best practices and regulatory standards, ultimately advancing arc flash safety nationwide.
According to the Johns Hopkins study, an estimated 630 arc flash injuries occur annually in the U.S. This figure, derived from a meticulous extrapolation based on existing incident reports, underscores the urgency for improved safety measures and heightened awareness within the industry. Key findings underscore the need for enhanced safety protocols, including better PPE use and equipment de-energization practices, particularly during maintenance and installation tasks involving both qualified and unqualified workers.
Regulatory Developments: NFPA 70B
NFPA 70B, which traditionally offered recommended practices for electrical equipment maintenance, is gaining momentum as a mandatory standard across the industry. This shift marks a pivotal moment in electrical safety, moving from voluntary to obligatory compliance. However, challenges persist in widespread adoption, as highlighted in industry webinars discussing readiness and implementation hurdles.
NFPA 70B provides guidelines for electrical maintenance practices. Here are the eight recommended steps to help achieve
compliance:
鈥� Establish an Electrical Preventive Maintenance (EPM) Program: Develop a structured program that outlines the scope, objectives, and procedures for electrical maintenance.
鈥� Identify Critical Equipment: Determine which electrical systems and components are critical to your operation and prioritize them for maintenance.
鈥� Develop Maintenance Procedures: Create detailed procedures for inspecting, testing, and maintaining electrical equipment. These procedures should be based on manufacturer recommendations and industry standards.
鈥� Schedule Regular Inspections and Testing: Implement a schedule for routine inspections and testing of electrical systems to identify potential issues before they escalate.
鈥� Train Personnel: Ensure that personnel responsible for electrical maintenance are trained in safe work practices and procedures specific to the equipment they will be maintaining.
鈥� Maintain Detailed Records: Keep accurate records of all maintenance activities, including inspections, tests, repairs, and replacements. These records help demonstrate compliance and track equipment performance over time.
鈥� Monitor Changes in Standards and Regulations: Stay informed about updates to NFPA 70B and other relevant standards to ensure continued compliance with industry best practices.
鈥� Review and Improve the Program: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your EPM program through audits, feedback from maintenance personnel, and performance metrics. Make adjustments as necessary to improve safety and reliability.
Role of Digitalization in Compliance
Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, with digitalization emerging as a cornerstone strategy. Technologies such as digital twins, predictive maintenance, and advanced analytics are increasingly leveraged to enhance equipment reliability and streamline compliance with NFPA standards. These innovations not only optimize maintenance schedules, but also minimize downtime and operational disruptions, crucial for maintaining safety and productivity in C&I environments.
Recommendations for Enhanced Compliance
Industry leaders advocate for a systematic approach to achieve NFPA 70B compliance effectively:
鈥� Comprehensive Assessments: Conduct thorough assessments of electrical equipment to identify potential risks and prioritize maintenance efforts.
鈥� Digital Tools Adoption: Embrace predictive maintenance technologies and digital twins to monitor equipment health in real-time and preemptively address issues.
鈥� Training and Awareness: Invest in continuous education and training programs to ensure personnel are proficient in safety protocols and compliance requirements.
鈥� Data-Driven Decision Making: Use analytics to derive actionable insights from maintenance data, optimizing operational efficiencies and reducing risks associated with arc flash incidents.
A Critical Juncture
The NFPA conference highlighted a critical juncture in the industry鈥檚 commitment to arc flash safety, emphasizing the need for proactive measures and technological innovations. Following these steps can help organizations maintain compliance with NFPA 70B standards and promote electrical safety and reliability in their facilities. As regulatory landscapes evolve and awareness grows, stakeholders are urged to collaborate, innovate, and prioritize safety to mitigate the impact of arc flash incidents effectively. By embracing digital solutions and adhering to emerging standards like NFPA 70B, the industry can foster a safer working environment and uphold its commitment to protecting personnel from electrical hazards. Through these concerted efforts, the path forward promises not only enhanced safety, but also increased operational resilience and sustainability in C&I buildings across the nation. | WA
Antonio Di Vaira is the Senior Vice President for Power Products over North America, Mexico, and Central America at Schneider Electric. In this role, he has full responsibility for all aspects of Schneider Electric鈥檚 offer, and solution development, including strategy, R&D, market development, and go-to-market for the entire ANSI, NEMA, LV, and MV portfolio including Services. His relentless commitment to research and data has led to breakthrough innovations and fresh perspectives. Through his vast experience and diverse skill set, Antonio continues to apply his education and expertise across the global landscape of the industry showing his commitment to driving electrification and transformation in demanding market environments. For more information, visit .
References
www.osha.gov/ords/imis/AccidentSearch.search?acc_keyword=%22
Electric%20Arc%22&keyword_list=on
www.nfpa.org/events/conference
https://jscholarship.library.jhu.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/8a734ce7-4844-4eb6-a109-e9e1c9f6a8c5/content
www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/nfpa-70b-standard-development/70b