Any environment where electrical apparatus is used becomes prone to arc flash explosions, leading to catastrophic harm or death. Accurate labeling is an important way of minimizing these risks, since they offer workers important safety information.
NFPA has published standards specific to fire electrical hazards (under NFPA 70E, the regulation on arc flash labels). To avert dangerous situations, these labels need to adhere to guidelines so that personnel will be safe. It is a legal mandate to follow the labeling recommended by NFPA 70E but it is also a useful practice—to increase the safety level of the workplace.
Labeling in Accordance With NFPA 70E Arc Flash Label Requirements
NFPA 70E outlines the specific labeling that must be placed on equipment. These labels are very important to provide knowledge for the workers—of what dangers they may face and precautions that need to be taken.
NFPA 70E Arc Flash Label Requirements: Elements That Must Be Incorporated
To remain compliant with the NFPA 70E arc flash label requirements, arc flash labels must include the following details:
a. Warning Signals
Hazard warning labels must contain at least one signal word, such as ‘Danger’, or ‘Warning,’ placed in a glaring way on the label.
b. Arc Flash Boundary
Arc flash boundary is the farthest distance up to which a person can be endangered during an arc flash. It is crucial for workers to have this information, in order to avoid setting up in proximity to dangerous equipment.
c. Incident Energy or PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) Category
Incident energy shows the capability of heated energy at a particular distance from the equipment; its unit is calories per square centimeter or (cal/cm²). The label should also specify the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) category. It provides information necessary for the workers, ensuring they wear the protective wear that is required.
d. Working Distance
Working distance is the distance measured from the source of the arc flash to the worker. Correct measurement plays an important role in setting up incident energy levels and defining the required type of personal protection equipment.
Additional Recommendations for Compliance
In addition to the mandatory elements, NFPA 70E recommends including an extra detail on arc flash labels for enhanced safety and clarity. It is useful to put the date of the last arc flash analysis, to maintain the relevancy of the labels. NFPA 70E stipulates that the assessments must be reviewed every five years or in case of changes to the systems.
Guidelines for NFPA 70E Labeling Regulation Compliance
a. Regularly Update Labels
Labels must be changed based on the five years review plan or in case big changes are introduced to the equipment or electrical system.
b. Educate the Staff on How to Read Labels
Training guarantees that employees comprehend contents on arc flash labels, as well as know how to apply NFPA 70E requirements.
c. Conduct Routine Audits
Biannual safety audits can easily ensure that the employers are fully compliant with the NFPA 70E standards, and reveal any missing or expired labels.
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