what is an arc flash hazard
Arc flash hazard as defined by the NFPA 70E: âa dangerous condition associated with the release of energy by an electric arcâ. Broken down to its components, we get: Arc: current flowing through air, caused either by human error or faulty equipment. Flash: release of energy including a bright flash of light. Hazard: the danger posed to personnel in the vicinity of the arc. Equipment and work methods are designed and used to separate personnel from live conducting parts by barriers and well-maintained equipment has a very low chance of spontaneously causing electric arcs. As such, arc flash incidents are rare.