Tyndale's NFPA 70E Made Easy:

130.5 A-D Arc Flash Risk Assessment

70E Video Training Hub

This section of NFPA 70E focuses on arc flash risk assessments, providing a detailed breakdown of the purpose of risk assessment.

Section 130.5 defines the essential components of an Arc Flash Risk Assessment:

A) Identify Arc Flash Hazards

  • Determine if an arc flash risk exists while working with electrical equipment.
  • Understand that equipment in normal condition (properly installed, maintained, and operated) has a reduced risk of arc flash.
  • Understand that equipment in normal condition (properly installed, maintained, and operated) has a reduced risk of arc flash.

B) Estimate Likelihood and Severity of Injury

  • Assess the environment, equipment condition, and potential abnormal situations that may increase risk.
  • Consider the design of the electrical equipment, including its overcurrent protective devices and their operating or trip time.
  • Always err on the side of caution to ensure safety.

C) Determine if Additional Safety Measures are Necessary

  • Apply the Hierarchy of Risk Controls to minimize exposure and incident energy.
  • Know the appropriate safety-related work practices.
  • Understand the arc flash boundary and what PPE is required to protect yourself and others from those risks.
  • Refer to Table 130.5(C) for common electrical tasks and the associated risks. It’s a great resource for identifying when additional protective measures, like PPE, are necessary.

D) Documentation is Key

  • The proper documentation is essential. If it isn’t documented, it didn’t happen.
  • If you’re performing work that requires an Energized Electrical Work Permit (EEWP), ensure that your risk assessments are properly recorded.

Two Key Takeaways

    1. Operating Time Matters: Arc flashes are influenced more by time than the size of equipment. Faster breaker trips reduce the duration of an arc flash. A well-maintained circuit breaker can interrupt current in fractions of a cycle, preventing a longer and more dangerous arc.
    2. Importance of Maintenance: Well-maintained equipment presents lower risks, while older or poorly maintained systems can increase the chances of arc flash. Jason highlights that maintenance schedules ensure safety equipment like circuit breakers operate within specifications—reducing the risk and duration of arc flashes.
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Tyndale’s "NFPA 70E Made Easy" video series – hosted by Jason Brozen, Tyndale’s Lead Corporate Safety and Technical Trainer, a 28-year Master Electrician and an NFPA Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional (CESCP) – makes electrical safety accessible and understandable for all. The series delves into the intricacies of NFPA 70E, a vital tool since 1979 for establishing practical and safe workplaces. Recognizing its significance, we’ve created an entire educational resource hub dedicated to this essential standard, offering comprehensive insights and guidance.

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