Arc Flash & Electrical Safety

New Arc Flash Helmet & Faceshield

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:49:00 +0000

Arc flash helmet and face shield from Extreme Safety

Protecting the face and head region from arc flash hazards is crucial. The face shield and helmet combination does the job effectively and barely restricts movement or causes an inconvenience.

The face shield is designed to deflect blast energy away from the face, while absorbing heat and spatter. The helmet is simply a mounting device for the face shield, but is made of similar material. Standard face shield and hardhats will melt in an arc flash; for that reason you should only use arc flash approved PPE.

A new add-on for the face shield is the Nomex flap. The flap attaches to the bottom of the face shield, and hangs down to the chest. This creates a mechanical barrier between to cover the gap between the face shield and chin area.

Although the face shield and helmet achieve their 10ka/1sec arc flash rating without this flap, it is an approved extra feature suitable for some applications.

More information is available from Extreme Safety.

New Arc Flash Printer

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:29:00 +0000

Graphic Products has just released the new DuraLabel PRO 300 industrial label printer. This is a high resolution 300 dpi thermal transfer printer that incorporates high-speed processing to provide fast printing of labels and signs.

This new printer provides five options for printing arc flash labels and signs.

The DuraLabel PRO 300 comes with the Flash Label database software. This software is used to create, print and store arc flash labels. Labels are printed using preformated 4"x6" die-cut labels that are available with either a danger or a warning header. Die-cut labels are available in both English and Spanish.

The die-cut labels may also be printed using generic software such as Microsoft Word or Excel, or using arc flash calculation software such as EasyPower.

As a third option the DuraLabel PRO 300 can use continuous two-color vinyl. This is a white vinyl tape with a colored header section typically used for a signal word. Two-color arc flash labels can be formatted to include any desired information. Two-color vinyl is available in four inch widths and may be printed in nearly any desired length. Two-color continuous vinyl is unique product available only for the DuraLabel line of printers.

Single color continuous vinyl is an option that provides total flexibility in label design. Information can be formatted and arranged to suit facility requirements.

The DuraLabel PRO 300 can also print text and graphics spanning multiple strips of vinyl. This means arc flash signs can be printed by combining strips of single color vinyl. For example, two 36" strips of orange tape and four 36" strips of white tape would be combined to create a 24" x 36" arc flash warning sign.

In addition to arc flash labels the DuraLabel PRO 300 can print a wide range of other types of labels and signs. From wire markers to pipe markers, tamper evident labels to glow-in-the-dark signs... the DuraLabel PRO 300 gets the job done right.

Use the links above for more information about the DuraLabel PRO 300 printer.

Free Online Arc Flash / Electrical Resources

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:17:00 +0000

AVO Electrical Engineering Division offers a variety of training resources on their web site, for free use.

A series of online "slide shows" cover arc flash related topics:

Do you know your Approach Boundaries?
Learn about a typical Arc Flash Label and different Approach Boundaries listed in it.

Do you know your Hot Spots?
Learn about typical Hot Spots in your facility with high Incident Energy (IE).

Test your Arc Flash Knowledge
Learn about Fundamental definitions of jargons used in the industry.

Do you have all the information to start an Arc Flash Study?
Learn about typical Field Data required to perform Arc Flash Study.

Where should I place my Arc Flash Labels?
Learn about where should the Arc Flash Labels be placed.

Nine publications are also available. They all may be read online.

Electrical Hazards Analysis

Electrical Safety and Maintenance Training

Electrical Safety in Battery Maintenance and Testing

Electrical Safety in Motor Maintenance and Testing

Electrical Safety in the Mining Industry

Electricity - The Silent Killer

Establishing an Electrical Safety Program

How to Develop an Effective Training Program

The Hazards of Electricity - Do You Know What They Are?

The web site is called: Free Technical Information and Publications

Qualify Providers Before An Arc Flash Analysis

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:06:00 +0000

An article in Plant Engineering Live, by Joseph Weigel, of Square D Services, Schneider Electric, provides some recommendations for selecting an arc flash analysis provider.

The article begins by providing an overview description of an arc flash analysis followed by a short discussion of standards. It then talks about the factors that should be considered when selecting a provider of your arc flash analysis.

The article concludes by saying:

"Purchasing an arc flash analysis for an industrial facility is very important for electrical safety standard compliance and also is required in order to provide the safest possible workplace for employees. However, like any product or service, when purchasing an arc flash analysis, one tends to get what one pays for, which is why qualifying providers should not be taken lightly. But more importantly, a facility owner or manager should also be careful not to be wooed by low bids.

Thus, a careful and thoughtful approach to an arc flash analysis purchase and qualifying providers, can help ensure the best possible result for a company’s investment."

Laurel, MS Electrical Equipment Manufacturer Faces $193,000 In OSHA Fines

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:34:00 +0000

OSHA has proposed $193,000 in penalties against Howard Industries for 54 violations of federal safety rules at the company's two manufacturing locations in Laurel, Miss.

The producer of electrical power products is being cited with 36 serious violations and proposed penalties of $123,500 at its Pendorf Road plant, with an additional 15 serious violations and proposed penalties of $41,000 at its Eastview plant. The violations include failing to provide employees with proper protective equipment, and to provide machine guards and lockout-tagout procedures. Lockout/tagout refers to preventing accidental start-up of machinery during maintenance.

Two repeat violations with penalties of $27,500 are being proposed for violations similar to those noted during earlier inspections in 2007. Chemical containers lacked identification labels and chains used as slings for lifting loads were shortened using makeshift measures rather than reducing the number of links.

One citation with a $1,000 penalty has been proposed for the company's failure to make material safety data sheets (MSDS) readily accessible to employees in their work area. A MSDS provides both employees and emergency personnel with information that is of particular use if a spill or other accident occurs.

"It is unconscionable for an employer to tolerate serious injuries, including amputations, as just a cost of doing business, rather than get out into the production areas and fix these numerous problems before employees get injured," said Clyde Payne, director of OSHA's Jackson Area Office.

The company has 15 business days to contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Electrophysics Launches Entry-level Portable Infrared Cameras

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:28:00 +0000

The following is a press release from Electrophysics

The cost effective EZTherm 880 combines easy infrared imaging, accurate temperature measurement with an integrated visible camera.

Fairfield, NJ (PRWEB) June 11, 2008 -- Electrophysics (www.electrophysics.com) announced that it has introduced its new EZTherm 880 Portable Infrared Camera Line. According to Electrophysics, the EZTherm 880 is designed for electricians and facility managers responsible for inspection of electrical circuits, motors and other rotating equipment, UPS systems, and building roofs, siding and interior walls. The EZTherm cameras make it cost effective to add or strengthen the role of thermal imaging in a facility's predictive maintenance program. The EZTherm can easily replace or augment annual inspections performed by an infrared imaging consultant. With up to 3 times the number of pixels of typical entry level infrared cameras, EZTherm 880 produces infrared images that are substantially sharper making diagnosis of equipment reliability issues much more accurate, intuitive and precise.

The EZTherm 880 camera features unique dual mode focus control (motorized or manual) that makes the 880 a true one hand operation camera. A unique feature in entry level cameras is the camera's close focus distance of only 4 inches making it ideal to image through inspection windows mounted in high voltage switchgear designed to reduce operator exposure to an arc flash event.

There are three EZTherm 880 models offered beginning with the 880-1 which features high image quality, advanced report generation software, 350°C measurement range, accurate measurement accuracy, multiple color palettes, large image recording memory, 5 hour battery run time, all housed in light weight IP-54 ergonomic camera body. The 880-3 model adds a high quality visible camera channel and additional measurement analysis functionality. The 880-4 is our "Pro" package and includes a 3X telephoto lens and our unique protective lens for harsh environments that can potentially spray contaminated liquids on the camera's expensive IR lens.

"The EZTherm 880 is the perfect compliment to our HotShot line of high performance cameras. These easy to use point and shoot cameras are the perfect trouble shooting tool for electricians and other technicians and can support the use of more advanced thermographic cameras, like our new HotShot HD, by expert thermographers responsible for highly critical equipment inspection and IR program management. In addition we are so confident in our product quality that every EZTherm 880 carries a two year warranty." said Chris Alicandro, Director of Sales for Electrophysics

Company Background: Headquartered in Fairfield, New Jersey, Electrophysics develops and manufactures advanced thermal imaging, near infrared and night vision systems for use in imaging applications.

U.K. Perspective On Arc Flash

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 15:01:00 +0000

An article in Processing Talk, asks industries in the U.K. "How do plants protect operators from Arc Flash?"

The article announces an arc flash survey to be conducted by TAS. The purpose of the survey is to assess the level of knowledge about Arc Flash hazards in U.K. industry, and to understand what plant operators are doing to mitigate the possible dangers and protect their workforce.

The article states:

"Initially the survey is being conducted by mailing the questionnaire to UK engineers in industries that are higher power users, (the mailing will go out in June) and there is also an on-line survey form on the TAS website, http://www.tas.co.uk/researcharcflash.

Respondents from overseas are welcome, but their experiences, attitudes and knowledge of arc flash hazards may be reported separately, to see and identify where differences exist compared to UK practice."

We will follow what happens with this survey and report on the results when they are available.

Free Web Seminar on Arc Flash Avoidance and NFPA 70E Compliance

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Tue, 27 May 2008 17:16:00 +0000

The following is a press release from LumaSense Technologies. They are a provider of sensor instrumentation for "monitoring, detecting, analyzing and measuring."

Broadcast date: Tuesday, June 3rd 2008
Broadcast Time: 11:00 AM PDT (2:00 PM EDT)
Speakers: Lowry Eads, Lowry Eads & Associates (Lanny Floyd, Dupont)
Hosted by: Brett Sargent, LumaSense Technologies ( John Snell, The Snell Group)

Most of us know that the words "Arc Flash" mean something serious. But, most of us do not know how dangerous an Arc Flash can be. Some things to consider are:

• There are approximately 2,000 Arc Flash events that occur in the United States every year
• Temperatures can reach 35,000°F in less than 1 second
• When copper vaporizes, a dynamite like explosion will occur

So, now that we have your attention, Arc Flash events can be minimized and avoided if you understand safety standards and adhere to published requirements. Documents such as NFPA 70E can help save lives and avoid catastrophic incidents.

Safe maintenance practices, knowing what to look for, thermal imaging of electrical switchgear using safe equipment and protective gear can all help.

Join us on Tuesday, June 3rd 2008 in this informative web seminar "Arc Flash Avoidance and NFPA 70E Compliance" to understand what an Arc Flash is and safety standards you should follow to save lives.

To register for the Web Seminar, Please go to: www.lumasenseinc.com/news_events/web_seminars.html

An Arc Flash Primer

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:09:00 +0000

An article in today's online edition of Consulting-Specifying Engineer by Nicholas Chalhoub, Senior Electrical Engineer with CH2M HILL, is called "An Arc Flash Primer".

As most other articles about arc flash do, Mr. Chalhoub begins this article with an explanation of what arc flash is. I found it refreshing that he began his description of arc flash with the statement "The primary cause of arc fault is human error." He then describes how human error leads to arc flash and how arc flash hazards can be reduced.

The next topics are proper design, preventative maintenance and arc flash calculations. He discusses the goals and objectives of arc flash calculations and provides an example calculation. He then points out:

"After these calculations are generated, the arc flash and shock hazard tags must be printed and placed on the specified equipment. The flash hazard boundary, flash hazard, and the category type should be listed on the tag. Many maintenance and safety personnel have been requesting that the limited, restricted and prohibited approach be listed also."

You can read the entire article at: CSE Magazine

You can learn about arc flash labels and tags on our web site.

Teaching An Old Dog New Tricks

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Fri, 16 May 2008 17:22:00 +0000

In today's issue of Plant Engineering Live Michael Stuart of Fluke Thermal Imaging talks about using themal imaging to both detect hazards and pinpoint problems. The article is called Teaching An Old Dog New (Electrical) Tricks - Too many people have been injured by attempting to measure voltage on a circuit they thought was dead. Using thermal imaging avoids this deadly contact.

The article points out the capabilities of thermal imaging and suggests appropriate applications:

"When choosing between an infrared thermometer and a thermal imager, the choice is situational. Most technicians now carry a small infrared thermometer in their pocket for on-the-go checks. However, the infrared thermometer gives you only a 'spot' temperature reading. If you know what you’re looking for, infrared may be enough. But if you’re hunting an elusive problem, a full thermal map of the entire unit is more effective."

He provides a list of common components that are typically inspected using thermal imagers and also gives a list of typical reasons for temperature hotspots or deviations. Both of these can serve as useful memory jogger checklists.

Electric Power Conference

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 07 May 2008 17:30:00 +0000

Joseph Deane is principal owner of KTR Associates, spoke about arc flash at the Electric Power Conference this morning. Mr. Deane has over 25 years of experience as an Electrical Engineer, Project Manager, and Executive, working in both the industrial and utility business sectors.

The following is an abstract of his presentation:

The NFPA 70E standard was created at the request of OSHA in 1979 to recognize the difference between design and workplace safety. The National Electric Code (NEC) provides the installation (design) standard while the NFPA 70E is the workplace safety standard.

NFPA 70E describes employer responsibilities and recommendations on topics such as employee training, safety-related work practices, tagout procedures, calculating flash protection boundaries and PPE requirements. The current standard recognizes arc flash as a serious hazard and establishes PPE requirements that apply when working around energized equipment.

Why is the NFPA-70E Standard Important? Because following the NFPA-70E standard may save a life. Hazardous arc flashes can occur in any electrical device in which energy is high enough to sustain an arc. The heat exposure due to an electrical arc can produce first-degree burns, permanent blindness, or even death.

In an effort to reduce the extent of potential injuries NFPA-70E specifies boundaries within which flash protection (PPE) is required.

The National Safety Council estimates that an average of more than one fatality a day occurs while working around electrical equipment. Of these fatalities, more than half occurred while working on energized equipment rated 600 volts or below. In addition, five to ten electrical “arc flashes” occur in the workplace everyday. The medical costs for an individually exposed to an electrical arc flash is around $12 to $20 million.

Employers need to include both shock and arc hazard identification in their safety programs.

When working on electrical apparatus (switchgear, panelboards, motor control centers, etc.) the incident energy or available fault current to produce an arc flash needs to be clearly identified on each respective enclosure or piece of electrical equipment. As a part of that label, when employees must work within the flash protection boundary, it is important to include the incident energy. Producing a Flash Hazard Analysis can do this.

Does OSHA recognize the NFPA 70E? Absolutely. OSHA has recently updated their electrical standards to reflect the latest in both the NEC and NFPA 70E standard. OSHA will cite companies for non-compliance with 29 CFR 1910.335(a)(1)(i) which requires the use of protective equipment when working where a potential hazard exists and 29 CFR 1910.132(d)(1) which requires the employer to provide an assessment of the workplace for hazards and the need for personal protective equipment.

OSHA also utilizes the “General Duty Clause” which states, "each employer shall furnish to each of its employees a place of employment that is free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm."

NIOSH Arc Flash Videos

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 05 May 2008 15:48:00 +0000

NIOSH has produced an arc flash awareness video. You can review part of the video below. Below that there is a link to a second part of the video, which is available on YouTube. You can download the complete NIOSH arc flash awareness video from their video page at: http://cdc.gov/Niosh/mining/products/product152.htm

Part two on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDGxyZoxWOg

OSHA Cites DCS Sanitation Management Inc. Following Electrocution Death

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:35:00 +0000

The following is a press release from OSHA dated April 14, 2008.

OSHA cites DCS Sanitation Management Inc. for multiple safety and health violations following an electrocution death.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited DCS Sanitation Management Inc. for 10 alleged violations of federal safety and health standards following the Oct. 12, 2007, death of an employee at a Springfield, Mo., poultry processing facility.

An employee of Cincinnati, Ohio-based DCS Sanitation Management, working to sanitize poultry processing equipment, was electrocuted when the equipment's conductive surface became energized.

"Our inspection revealed multiple violations of OSHA's electrical standards," said Charles E. Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City. "It is imperative that employers remain committed to keeping the workplace safe at all times."

An alleged willful violation addresses hazards associated with the company's failure to ensure employees are removed from equipment hazard areas, all tools are removed, and equipment is operationally intact prior to its release from lockout/tagout safeguards and employee use. Lockout/tagout refers to preventing accidental start-up of machinery during maintenance. Willful violations are those committed with an intentional disregard of, or plain indifference to, the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and regulations.

An alleged repeat violation addresses a hazard associated with the lack of suitable facilities for quick drenching and/or flushing of the eyes and body in the event of an emergency when employees were working with injurious corrosives. Repeat violations are issued when an employer previously has been cited for the same, or a substantially similar, violation that has become a final order.

Alleged serious violations address the following hazards: failure to ensure electrical equipment was free from recognized hazards; failure to ensure the means of grounding machines and equipment was continuous and effective; enclosures for electrical components in wet environments that were not waterproof; failure to provide all flexible cords with a strain relief; failure to provide a standard guardrail system for every floor opening or platform above dangerous equipment; failure to provide and/or require the use of appropriate eye and face protective equipment; and allowing the consumption of food and beverages in areas exposed to toxic chemicals.

An other-than-serious violation addresses the employer's failure to report the fatal accident to the nearest OSHA area office within the required eight hours of occurrence. The agency's proposed penalties for all violations total $124,500.

DCS Sanitation Management Inc. has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed penalties to comply, request and participate in an informal conference with OSHA's area director, or contest the citations and penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Failing To Follow Safety Rules

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:18:00 +0000

Sometimes we've done the same thing over and over so many times we start to feel like we can "get away with" taking shortcuts. This video is a dramatization that shows what can happen when we fail to follow elementary electrical safety rules.

University Employees Injured By Arc Flash

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 13:53:00 +0000

The Texas Christian University Daily Skiff (the student newspaper) reports in today's edition that two university employees were injured by an arc flash. The article reports that:

"Two physical plant employees were injured Wednesday morning in an electrical accident in the basement of Tandy Hall, university officials said."

"One employee who suffered injuries to his eyes and forearm was still in the hospital late Wednesday, and the other, who injured his knee while moving to avoid the shock, was treated and released, said Tracy Syler-Jones, associate vice chancellor for marketing and communication."

There had been a power outage and the two employees were working to start a backup generator. This incident should make us aware that we must always be alert to the possibility of an arc flash when working with electrical equipment. My guess is that the two workers who were injured never even considered the possibility of an arc flash. Training, proper labeling, and the use of PPE are three pillars that can not be ignored or forgotten.

Solving The Puzzle Of Electrical Safety Compliance

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 21:19:00 +0000

Square D Schneider Electric has released another video on their website which is also available for online viewing or download. The new video is called "Solving the Puzzle of Electrical Safety Compliance".

This new video provides a basic seminar about electrical safety compliance which thoroughly explains the details about electrical hazards and NFPA 70E, and how OSHA enforces this important electrical safety standard. The non-technical treatment is suitable for anyone who is responsible for, or concerned with electrical safety.

The running time for this video is approximately 75 minutes. It is available in four formats (two for streaming video and two for download). Each option has two file sizes to accommodate different internet connection speeds. Because the video length is 75 minutes, you may prefer to use one of the two download options that are available. Download will take several minutes to complete, depending on your internet connection quality.

Honeywell Aquires Arc Flash Protective Equipment Maker

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:20:00 +0000

The following is a press release from Honeywell:

Honeywell Signs Definitive Agreement to Acquire Norcross Safety Products

MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J. – Honeywell on Friday announced a definitive agreement to acquire Norcross Safety Products L.L.C., a leading manufacturer of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), for approximately $1.2 billion.

Norcross, based in Oak Brook, IL, and majority owned by Odyssey Investment Partners, manufactures a wide range of protective and safety equipment for the fire service, utility and general industrial worker segments. The agreement is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory review. Norcross will be integrated into Honeywell Life Safety, part of Honeywell’s Automation and Control Solutions (ACS) group. Norcross’s revenue was approximately $609 million in 2007.

“From emergency responders, to electrical workers to the industrial workforce, Norcross’s innovative solutions protect those who work in environments where safety protection is paramount,” said Roger Fradin, President and CEO of Honeywell ACS. “With more than 100 years of industry experience, best-in-class solutions and trusted brands, and a strong management team with exceptional talent and depth, Norcross is a globally recognized industry leader that will bolster our offerings to our customers in key Life Safety segments.”

Fradin continued, “This acquisition provides Honeywell with a complete platform in a fragmented, global segment which is expected to yield substantial growth opportunities. Investing in Norcross allows Honeywell to fully participate in the broad and highly regulated industrial safety marketplace.”

As one of the industry’s largest providers of personal protective equipment, Norcross has a unique ability to provide integrated head-to-toe protective equipment solutions. Norcross is a recognized leader in a number of market segments including Air Purifying Respirators (APRs), protective footwear, protective headgear, firefighter turnout gear, high-voltage sleeves and gloves, and arc flash protection. It benefits from one of the industry’s most extensive distribution networks with more than 2,500 distributors.

“This acquisition creates an exciting adjacency for Honeywell Life Safety – especially our Fire Systems and Gas Detection businesses, which share common distribution channels with Norcross. We expect strong sales synergies across Honeywell businesses and opportunities to add value to Norcross products with Honeywell electronic gas sensors, fire detection and advanced fiber material technologies,” said Mark Levy, President of Honeywell Life Safety. “Norcross and its leadership in the personal protection segment are highly complementary to our portfolio and customer base. The acquisition of Norcross builds on the highly successful Novar, Zellweger and First Technology acquisitions and extends our already strong position in the $20 billion global Life Safety marketplace.”

Norcross is uniquely positioned in a number of core vertical segments including General Safety and Preparedness (respiratory protection; protective footwear; hand protection; eye, head, face and ear protection; first aid; and fall protection); Fire Service (firefighter turnout gear, footwear, helmets, gloves and other accessories); and Electrical Safety (gloves and sleeves, lineman equipment and arc flash protection). Norcross sells its products under trusted, long-standing and well-recognized brand names, including North, KCL, Fibre-Metal, Morning Pride, Pro-Warrington, Salisbury and Servus.

“Becoming a part of Honeywell is a terrific opportunity for our business, customers and employees. We are enthusiastic that this acquisition brings us access to even stronger technologies, global distribution channels, and gives us the ability to expand our product offerings in a world with heightened safety demands,” said Bob Peterson, President and CEO of Norcross Safety Products.

Honeywell International is a $36 billion diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywell’s shares are traded on the New York, London and Chicago Stock Exchanges. For additional information, please visit www.honeywell.com.

Contractors Cited by OSHA Following Electrocution Death At Maine Jobsite

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 16:24:00 +0000

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited two contractors - J&S Carpentry of Columbia, Maine, and Irving Equipment Inc. of Hampton, N.H. - for 15 alleged violations of safety standards following the electrocution death of an employee at a Hermon, Maine, residential construction site.

On Sept. 12, 2007, an Irving crane contacted an energized 7,200 volt overhead power line as two J&S Carpentry employees were attempting to attach the crane's rigging equipment to a section of a modular home that was being constructed at 28 Lily Lane in Hermon. One of the employees was killed and the other seriously injured by the electric current.

OSHA's inspection found that the crane was being operated within 10 feet of the power line, which had not been de-energized beforehand, as required. The two contractors face a combined total of $121,500 in proposed fines.

"The basic safeguards designed to prevent just this sort of accident were ignored here, with fatal results," said William Coffin, OSHA's area director for Maine. "De-energizing the power line and maintaining a safe working distance from it would have prevented this death and injury."

J&S Carpentry, for whom the employees worked, was issued two willful citations for allowing employees to work in close proximity to the energized power line and for not protecting employees against fall hazards. OSHA also issued the company four serious citations for a lack of on-site medical attention; absence of hardhats and electrical warning signs; and ladder hazards. J&S Carpentry faces a total of $32,000 in proposed fines for these conditions.

Irving Equipment, which owned and operated the crane, has been issued three repeat citations for operating the crane in high winds, inadequate support for the crane's outriggers, and not inspecting the job site to identify and correct these and other hazards. OSHA had cited the company in May 2005 for similar hazards at a Freeport, Maine, job site.

Irving Equipment also has been issued six serious citations for operating the crane within 10 feet of the power line; not operating the crane in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and industry standards; and lack of fall protection, hardhats, on-site medical attention and an electrical warning sign. Irving Equipment faces a total of $89,500 in proposed fines for these conditions.

OSHA defines a willful violation as one committed with plain indifference to or intentional disregard for employee safety and health. A serious citation is issued when death or serious physical harm is likely to result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.

Each company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations to contest them before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The inspection was conducted by OSHA's Bangor District Office.

What OSHA Expects: The Electrical Safety Questions OSHA Will Ask

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 13:40:00 +0000

This article, What OSHA Expects: The Electrical Safety Questions OSHA Will Ask During an Investigation by Kenneth Cybart appeared in yesterday's Occupational Hazards Magazine. This is how the article introduces itself:

"Wouldn’t it be nice to know exactly what OSHA is training its inspectors to look for during an inspection that includes electrical safety, including surprising new areas of emphasis based on national OSHA directives? This article covers some of the typical electrical safety questions that OSHA inspectors will ask during a field investigation, what they mean and how to be prepared and in compliance."

The article looks at 17 questions OSHA inspectors will ask, such as:

Is there a description of the circuit or equipment at the job location?

Is there a detailed job description of planned work?

Can you justify why equipment cannot be de-energized or the job deferred until the next scheduled outage?

Has a detailed work procedure been established?

You can read the complete article, including all 17 questions, on Occupational Hazards' web site.

Avoiding Five Big Mistakes

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 22:47:00 +0000

An article by Larry Altmayer (Services Manager for POWR-GARD, Littlefuse, Inc.) in this month's issue of Facility Safety discusses Avoiding Five Big Mistakes when assessing your facility for electrical hazards.

The articles opens by describing this problem:

"In one case, a manager didn’t calculate Arc flash hazards because a consultant told him the power serving that part of his plant was too low to cause an arc flash. He didn’t realize that low-level faults can cause a circuit breaker or fuse to open more slowly and actually increase the heat energy during an arc-flash. He had good intentions, but the plant was out of compliance by not identifying real hazards and his workers were at risk."

The five big mistakes are identified as:

1.Conducting an incomplete assessment.
2. Using the NFPA 70E Table Method improperly.
3. Trying to do an assessment with in-house staff.
4. Not correcting deficiencies after the assessment.
5. Not changing work procedures after the assessment.

You can read the entire article on the Facility Safety web site.

WE Energies To Pay Damages In Plant Accident

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:30:00 +0000

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports today on the court judgment resulting from an arc flash injury at the Patrick Cudahy meat packing plant.

The article reports that Neil Wolf was injured by an arc flash on May 26, 2003, at the Patrick Cudahy plant. The jury awarded $515,000 to Mr. Wolf.

WE Energies, the local power company, was found to be 37% negligent and will have to pay $190,550 of the award.

Patrick Cudahy was found to be 55% responsible. But because Patrick Cudahy was a plaintiff, not a defendant in this case, they will not need to pay any of the jury award.

Mr. Wolf was found to be 10% responsible.

You can read the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article at: http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=727274

OSHA imposed $148,500 in fines in December 2004. The following is what OSHA reported at that time:

"Three workers were reported to have been troubleshooting electrical switchgear at the Cudahy, Wis., facility when electricity arched and exploded. OSHA's investigation revealed that the three workers, all of whom received first, second and third degree burns throughout their bodies, were not using insulated tools, were not wearing proper personal protective equipment, and were not following appropriate safety standards. OSHA issued willful and serious violations to Cudahy for allegedly failing to provide such equipment, and warning or training the workers about flash hazards."

Victims Of Arc Flash

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:42:00 +0000

The statistics say that 10 people a day are injured by arc flash. More and more of these people are telling their stories using video. I'm finding new videos on a regular basis. In the following video a man and his wife tell the story of his injury as a result of an arc flash. It is called "Arc Flash - Survival or Prevention. The David Bird Story."

Why are so many videos about arc flash showing up on the internet? My guess is because arc flash injuries are so sudden and unexpected, and the consequences are serious. The key word here is "unexpected". Arc flash hazards have been ignored until recently. Most equipment that presents an arc flash hazard is not even properly labeled. Workers have not had arc flash safety training.

This is a safety hazard that can not be ignored any longer.

Paradigm Shift Requires Look At Plant Electrical Infrastructure

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 14:57:00 +0000

An article by Larry Altmayer, POWR-GARD Services Manager for Littelfuse Inc. in the online edition of Plant Services magazine talks about how we need to change our view of electrical distribution systems. The article opens by stating:

"No longer can maintenance treat electrical distribution systems as everlasting, never-changing components of a facility. Instead, we must consider the electrical infrastructure as a dynamic system that requires regular attention and a formal preventive maintenance program."

The article makes the point that electrical systems can no longer be viewed as unchanging, static systems that can be installed and forgotten. They are dynamic systems that are changing to meet continually changing needs, and as a result must be regularly re-evaluated and maintained.

Mr. Altmayer then covers how OSHA, NFPA 70E, NEC and NEMA codes and standards are driving change and this results in a need for current electrical hazard assessments and ongoing maintenance. Overall this article provides a good overview of a dynamic situation that we all need to address.

You can read the complete article at: http://www.plantservices.com/articles/2008/034.html

Arc Flash Evolution

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 18:36:00 +0000

An article titled "Arc Flash Evolution" was included in the December issue of Control Engineering magazine.

"It seemed safe enough. The industrial electricians were just going to take a few measurements prior to starting the job. Everything was energized, but that should have been OK, because the electricians were going to be a safe distance away."

"They were. The metal tip of their wooden yardstick wasn't. The resulting arc appeared and vanished in less than a second, sticking around long enough to catch clothes on fire. The unlucky electricians joined the estimated hundreds of arc-flash injuries a year that require hospitalization. Their co-worker standing 10 feet away became one of the thousands who annually suffer injuries that don't require a hospital stay."

The article goes on to discuss arc flash warning labels, bolted vs. arcing faults and tripping devices used to limit the severity of arc flash. At the end of the article it refers to a video of a one hour arc flash webinar called "Arc Flash Hazard: Understanding Safe Electrical Work Practices, Standards and Regulations". The video can be viewed after going through a short registration process. Although I was not able to view the video, as I got a blank screen after registering. This may be the result of the network security we have in place. However, the article on its own is worth reading.

Voltage Indicators Enhance Safety

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Hudgik) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 20:00:00 +0000

The "Near-death experiences among paper mill electricians are all too common. On this particular day, a combination circuit breaker/welding outlet failed to provide power to the welder. The maintenance electrician began to replace the outlet. Casually, his co-worker paused and said, 'Better check it with a meter.' The meter revealed that one phase of the circuit breaker had failed 'live' leaving the outlet energized. For these guys, this near-death experience is permanently imprinted on their minds in vivid 'Technicolor' detail never to be forgotten."

The article goes on to describe various methods of detecting voltage, and how voltage indicators and volt meters "are on the same team with their own unique safety benefits."

No author for the article is listed, but it appears to have come from Grace Engineered Products, Inc.