Arc-Flash Compliance Implementation at Industrial Processing Facilities
This paper highlights an assortment of case studies and explains how arc-flash hazards were identified, measured, and mitigated in various industrial processing facilities. Case studies reviewed include the following: (1) the completion of arc-flash studies and arc-flash remediation for a group of existing cement pyroprocessing plants in North America to achieve compliance with Electrical Workplace Standards National Fire Protection Association 70E-2012 and Canadian Standards Association Z462-2012 for a multisite cement manufacturer; (2) the implementation of an arc-flash analysis at an existing U.S.-based copper mine/copper concentrate facility; (3) the investigation of an arc-flash incident that occurred during energized work at a U.S. chemical processing facility; and (4) a “Safety by Design” installation for a new Greenfield coal preparation plant in Australia. This paper will examine the plans and processes reviewed and considered and the strategy deployed to manage/reduce arc-flash hazards and then discuss lessons learned in the implementation of new systems to improve electrical workplace safety.
Arc flash hazard assessment in the mining industry
When it comes to electrical safety in the workplace, arc flash has become the most prominent topic over the past decade. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA, including state chapters) is the only government body that recognizes NFPA-70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. However, OSHA does not have jurisdiction in mining operations. Electrical safety for the metal and nonmetal surface mining industry is covered by the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 30, Part 56, Subpart K (Electricity). The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is responsible for enforcing electrical safety in mining operations. CFR Title 30 does not reference personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect electrical workers against arc flash hazards. This paper provides maintenance and safety personnel in surface Metal/Nonmetal mining operations with a step by step guide to implementing an electrical safety program that meets the requirements of MSHA, CFR Title 30 and NFPA-70E.
Calculation of and Errors in the Susceptibility
The measurement of the susceptibility requires three measurements, two of which have to be performed with a substance of known susceptibility. The difference of these last two measurements furnishes the proportionality constant of the apparatus, always employing the same volume, while the difference with the unknown substance gives the required susceptibility.