Arcflash.ca Shares Electrical Safety Advice, Videos, New Courses And More! 

Erin M • February 10, 2020

Electrical Safety is SO important. Please use this information to refresh yourself on some safety essentials - if you have any questions, be sure to call or e-mail me at len@arcflash.ca!

Let Us Not Forget About Ground Gradient and Step Potential Fallen or Low Hanging Wires

In the unfortunate event that one has been involved in a motor vehicle collision where there are fallen wires on or near the vehicle, “Stay in the vehicle”… until the electrical utility personnel have arrived. A vehicles tires may smoke or explode from heating up, however remain in the vehicle, except in the case of fire. In the event of the worst case situation, the vehicle is on fire which cannot be readily extinguished. The driver is now in extreme danger. Contacting metal parts of the vehicle and ground at the same time could be fatal. By keeping both feet together and jump clear of the vehicle. Avoid touching the car as both feet come in contact with the ground. Take short shuffle steps keeping both feet as close together as possible. They must avoid contacting each other. Move in this manner away from the vehicle for at least 10 metres (33 ft).

Jumping clear of a vehicle can be very dangerous and should only be attempted in circumstances where there is no other alternative such as a vehicle fire. The condition of the vehicle and physical ability of the occupant must also be
considered. In the event that one witnesses a motor vehicle collision involving fallen wires, before getting out of your vehicle, examine the surroundings carefully and ensure that you are parked well away from the fallen wires. If it is night time, use a flashlight to examine the surroundings carefully from your vehicle window. Keep your distance including your vehicle a distance of at least 10 metres (33 ft) or more is recommended from the down wire or conductive object it is in contact with.

If an energized wire touches a car, truck, metal fence or any other conductive object that object will now become energized and could cause serious or fatal injury. Establish the “Safe Zone” at least 10 metres (33ft) away from wires and
anything the wires may be touching. Secure the area and prevent people from entering into areas where there are fallen or broken wires, or electrically charged objects. Do not attempt to move any fallen wires, call and wait for electrical utility personnel.

To learn more, check out the video below, as well as the amazing pictures courtesy of the London Ont. Fire Department !

Check Out These Amazing Upcoming Courses!

Canada Class – Arc Flash Studies / IEEE 1584 - FIRST TIME IN CANADA!

How to Perform an Arc Flash Calculation Study
2018 IEEE 1584
By Jim Phillips, P.E.

With special guests: Len Cicero and Jim Pollard

Vancouver, British Columbia – February 24 – 25, 2020

For the first time ever, Jim Phillips is bringing his Arc Flash Studies class based on the 2018 IEEE 1584 to Canada! This very intense 2 day course includes an in depth discussion of:

Five different electrode configurations to enable more detailed modeling
More choices for enclosure types and sizes
Enclosure correction factor calculation to adjust for specific enclosure size
The effect of grounding has been eliminated
An arcing current variation factor calculation replaces the 85% factor
Calculations performed at 1 of 3 voltage levels with interpolation to actual voltage
The 125 kVA transformer exception was eliminated

Each calculation is now performed in 2 steps which includes an initial calculation based on one of three voltage levels and a second calculation interpolating to the specific system voltage. The 125 kVA “exception” was replaced. Learn why and what has replaced it. What about the 2 second rule?

Loaded with Hands-On Calculation Problems

This class will be packed with many hands-on calculation examples using Jim’s worksheets. The calculations will illustrate the various changes with the new edition and provide comparisons between the results using the 2002 Edition of IEEE 1584 and the 2018 Edition.

Hands-On Calculation Examples include:

• Arcing Short Circuit Current – Intermediate and Final
• Necessary Extrapolation and Interpolation
• Enclosure Size Correction Factor
• Incident Energy – Intermediate and Final
• Arc Flash Boundary – Intermediate and Final
• Low Voltage and Medium Voltage Calculations
• DC Arc Flash Calculations

Jim will be joined by special guests Len Cicero and Jim Pollard who will be discussing CSA Z462 requirements for arc flash studies and how the study results are used to select appropriate arc rated clothing and PPE.

Questions?: Contact Program Director, Brenda: 480.275.7451 or brenda@brainfiller.com


Don't Miss The Arc Flash Summit In Pittsburgh June 25, 2020!

Eaton’s Power Systems Experience Centerwill host an Arc Flash Summit at our Power Systems Experience Center (PSEC) in Pittsburgh, PA this June where you can see some of the latest arc flash solutions to keep your people safe. Industry experts will provide PDH certified training in more than 10 technical sessions. Case studies and live demonstrations will be scheduled throughout the day. The PSEC is the perfect venue for this event because you will not only learn about the solutions but you can see them in action. Mark your calendars and look for more information about registering for this event soon. If you are interested in learning more about the PSEC, please visit our website at www.eaton.com/experience and look for some of our videos on arc flash safety under the videos link. We hope to see you there!

Learn More About Electrical Incident Response Reporting Investigation and Management In This Video Below!

Hand Cranked Generator To Produce Power

Do you know the typical capacitor size and rating? Check out this video on Instagram and learn more about using aHand Cranked Generator to Produce Power: here.

How Do You Honour Someone Like Neil Peart?

Editorial: Reflect on the real Neil Peart when creating a memorial -St. Catharines Standard

How do you honour someone like Neil Peart?

The answer is complicated, because the Rush drummer was a complicated person.

He was a rock star who was introverted. A prolific author who would rather go unrecognized when he was out and about.

With Rush, he performed nightly before thousands of people, yet left the meet-and-greets with fans to bandmates Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee.

He shied away from signing autographs because he didn't agree with the concept of celebrity. He believed in humility and remained humble.

Peart, who died from cancer last week at age 67, grew up in Port Dalhousie and is known the world over as the drummer for the iconic Canadian rock band Rush.

Modern Drummer magazine ranked him No. 3 all-time among drummers, behind only jazz percussionist Buddy Rich (Peart's idol) and John Bonham of Led Zeppelin. Rolling Stone magazine put him at No. 4.

Port Dalhousie was home for the first two decades of his life. It's where he learned to play the drums, joined local bands and went to high school.

The announcement of his death shocked us. His illness was kept from everyone but his family and closest friends, who respected his wish for privacy.

For a lot of people, Rush provided the soundtrack to their lives from the mid-1970s through to its final concert in 2015.

They were just always there, touring constantly and putting out new music that changed with the times as they themselves grew as musicians and writers.

For Rush fans, Peart's death might have hit hard the same way others felt when John Lennon or Elvis Presley died. That's the kind of bond Rush has with its fans.

By early Tuesday, nearly 11,000 people had signed an online petition calling on the City of St. Catharines to honour Peart, possibly with a plaque or statue at Lakeside Park where he once had a summer job working a carnival booth. A park he immortalized in song.

But when we memorialize Peart, we need to take into account not just the drummer and author we knew, but also the man he was.

In the song "Limelight," he wrote: "Living in a fish-eye lens, caught in the camera eye. I have no heart to lie. I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend."

And he meant it.

It's not that he didn't like his fans; he was friendly and courteous when they approached him respectfully. But he never considered himself any more special than any of them.

People's grief is sincere because Peart, and Rush, never disappointed us. They were rock stars without the rock-star attitude. You knew them as guys you'd like to hang out with.

So let's honour Peart, for who he was.

One way is to read his books — most start from the premise of his travels, but are more about his personal feelings on life, stardom, his personal losses and his love for music. He was an observer.

By all means, we should memorialize him. He was special. And while he didn't seem like a statue kind of guy, there are many other ways to do it. And his family should be involved.

In an essay he wrote for The St. Catharines Standard in the mid-1990s, Peart wrote, "maybe the role models that we really need are to be found all around us, right in our own neighbourhoods."

"Not some remote model of perfection which exists only as a fantasy, but everyday people who actually show us, by example, a way to behave that we can see is good, and sometimes even people who can show us what it is to be excellent."

Unintentionally, Neil Peart was describing himself. He will be missed.

Electrical Safety Assistance? There’s A FREE App For That!

Don’t forget, our NEW Arc Flash Electrical Worker Quick Field Guide APP is available on Google Play for FREE! Download it Here

We hope you enjoyed all of the information in our Winter Newsletter and look forward to hearing from you, as well as bringing more up-to-date electrical safety information and tips in our Spring Newsletter! As always, you are invited to contribute a story or a question that you would like to bring forward to other readers, related to workplace electrical safety or lockout, including PPE and safety equipment.

Please send your stories and questions to Len at len@arcflash.ca . You can also continue the conversation with us on our Linkden Workplace Electrical Safety Communications group!





The Shocking Truth About Arc Flash Training (Most Workers Learn Too Late)

April 28, 2026
Electrical hazards don’t give second chances—and one of the most dangerous risks in any industrial or commercial setting is an arc flash. If you’ve ever wondered what arc flashing training actually involves or why arc flash certifications matter so much, this guide breaks it all down in a practical, easy-to-understand way—especially for businesses and workers in Hamilton and surrounding Ontario regions. What Is Arc Flash Training? Arc flash training is a specialized safety program designed to protect workers from one of the most extreme electrical hazards: an arc flash. An arc flash occurs when electrical current jumps through the air, releasing a sudden burst of heat, light, and pressure that can reach temperatures up to 35,000°F. This type of training goes far beyond basic electrical knowledge. It teaches workers how to recognize risks, assess hazards, and follow strict safety procedures when working on or near energized equipment. In simple terms, arc flashing training equips people with the skills to prevent catastrophic accidents before they happen. Why Arc Flash Training Is Critical in Ontario Workplaces In regions like Hamilton, Burlington, and across Ontario, industries rely heavily on electrical systems—from manufacturing plants to commercial buildings. That means the risk of arc flash incidents is always present. 1. It Saves Lives Arc flash incidents can cause severe burns, blindness, hearing damage, or worse. Training helps workers understand safe distances, proper procedures, and how to avoid exposure entirely. 2. It’s Often Legally Required Workplace safety standards such as Ontario’s OHSA and CSA Z462 require proper electrical safety training. Without arc flash certifications, companies risk fines, shutdowns, or liability issues. 3. It Protects Equipment and Business Operations An arc flash doesn’t just harm people—it can destroy electrical systems and halt operations. Training helps reduce costly downtime and repairs. 4. It Builds a Safety-First Culture When teams complete arc flashing training, they become more confident, aware, and proactive about safety—leading to better overall performance. What Does Arc Flash Training Actually Cover? A high-quality training program—like those offered by specialists in the Hamilton area—includes both theory and real-world application. Understanding Arc Flash Hazards Workers learn what causes arc flashes, including equipment failure, human error, and improper installations. Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification Training teaches how to evaluate job tasks, identify potential dangers, and determine risk levels before starting work. Safe Work Practices This includes procedures like lockout/tagout, de-energizing equipment, and maintaining safe working distances. Proper Use of PPE Personal protective equipment (PPE) is critical. Workers are trained to select and use arc-rated clothing, gloves, and face shields correctly. Emergency Response If something goes wrong, knowing how to react can make the difference between minor injury and disaster. Training includes emergency protocols and response strategies. Who Needs Arc Flash Certifications? If your job involves electrical systems—even indirectly—arc flash certifications are essential. This includes: Electricians Maintenance workers Engineers Safety managers Contractors working near energized equipment Even non-qualified workers can benefit from awareness-level arc flashing training, especially if they operate in environments with electrical hazards. Local Insight: Why Hamilton Businesses Should Take This Seriously Hamilton is home to a wide range of industries—steel manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and more. Many of these environments involve high-voltage systems where arc flash risks are elevated. Local training providers (like those behind arcflash.ca) tailor programs to meet Ontario regulations and real workplace scenarios. This localized approach ensures that training isn’t just theoretical—it’s directly applicable to the environments workers face every day. The Real Value of Arc Flash Training At its core, arc flash training is about prevention. It’s about making sure every worker goes home safely at the end of the day. Without proper training: Risks go unnoticed Mistakes become deadly Compliance gaps create legal trouble With the right arc flash certifications: Hazards are identified early Safe procedures become second nature Workplaces operate more efficiently and confidently  Ready to Protect Your Team? Take Action Today If your business operates in Hamilton or nearby areas, investing in professional arc flashing training isn’t optional—it’s essential. Don’t wait for an incident to highlight the risks. Get ahead of the problem by ensuring your team is trained, certified, and prepared. 👉 Contact a trusted local provider today to schedule your arc flash training and secure your workplace’s safety future.

Why Your Electrician Should Be Trained in Arc Flash Safety

March 31, 2026
When hiring an electrician, most homeowners and business owners focus on licensing, experience, and cost. While these are all important factors, there’s another critical qualification that often gets overlooked: arc flash training. Ensuring that your electrician is properly trained in arc flash safety isn’t just a technical detail—it’s a major factor in protecting your property, your investment, and most importantly, human life. Professionals like Len Cicero understand the importance of this specialized training and the role it plays in maintaining a safe working environment. What Is an Arc Flash? An arc flash is a sudden release of electrical energy through the air when a fault occurs in an electrical system. This event can generate extreme heat—up to 35,000°F—along with intense light, pressure waves, and flying debris. In a fraction of a second, an arc flash can cause severe injuries, fires, or even fatalities. Arc flashes can occur in residential, commercial, or industrial settings, often during maintenance, repairs, or installations. Even something as routine as working on a breaker panel can pose a risk if proper procedures aren’t followed. Why Arc Flash Training Matters Electricians who are trained in arc flash safety are equipped with the knowledge and skills to identify potential hazards and mitigate risks before they become dangerous. This training goes beyond standard electrical certification and focuses on: ● Hazard assessment and risk analysis ● Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) ● Safe work practices and procedures ● Understanding electrical system limits ● Emergency response protocols Without this specialized training, an electrician may unknowingly expose themselves—and your property—to serious risks. Protecting Lives and Preventing Injuries The most important reason to hire an electrician trained in arc flash safety is simple: it saves lives. Arc flash incidents can result in devastating injuries, including severe burns, hearing damage, and blindness. A trained electrician knows how to: ● De-energize equipment safely before working on it ● Maintain proper distances from live components ● Use insulated tools and protective gear ● Follow strict safety protocols These practices significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Hiring someone without this training increases the chances of dangerous mistakes. Reducing Property Damage Arc flash incidents don’t just harm people—they can cause extensive damage to your home or business. Electrical explosions can lead to fires, destroyed panels, and costly repairs. An electrician trained in arc flash safety understands how to: ● Work within the limits of your electrical system ● Avoid overloading circuits ● Identify faulty or outdated equipment ● Prevent conditions that could trigger an arc flash This proactive approach helps protect your property and can save you thousands of dollars in potential damages. Compliance with Safety Standards In many workplaces, especially commercial and industrial environments, arc flash safety is not optional—it’s required. Standards such as NFPA 70E outline strict guidelines for electrical safety in the workplace. Hiring an electrician who is trained in arc flash safety helps ensure that your project meets these regulations. This is particularly important for business owners who must comply with occupational health and safety laws. Professionals like Len Cicero stay up to date with evolving safety standards, ensuring that all work is compliant and performed to the highest level of professionalism Professionalism and Expertise Arc flash training is a sign of a dedicated and knowledgeable electrician. It demonstrates a commitment to ongoing education and safety—two qualities that should never be compromised when dealing with electrical systems. When you hire an electrician with this training, you’re not just getting someone who can complete the job—you’re hiring a professional who: ● Takes safety seriously ● Understands complex electrical risks ● Uses industry best practices ● Prioritizes long-term reliability This level of expertise leads to better workmanship and greater peace of mind. Peace of Mind for Homeowners and Businesses Whether you’re upgrading your electrical panel, installing new lighting, or managing a large commercial project, knowing that your electrician is trained in arc flash safety provides invaluable peace of mind. You can feel confident that: ● The work is being performed safely ● Risks are being minimized ● Your property and occupants are protected In an industry where mistakes can have serious consequences, this assurance is woits weight in gold. Electrical work is inherently risky, but those risks can be greatly reduced with proper training and expertise. Arc flash safety training is a crucial component of modern electrical work, and it should be a key consideration when hiring an electrician. By choosing a professional who prioritizes safety—like Len Cicero—you’re making a smart investment in the safety, reliability, and longevity of your electrical systems. When it comes to electricity, cutting corners is never worth the risk. Always choose an electrician who is trained, prepared, and committed to doing the job safely.

Why Are My Lights Flickering? Common Causes and Fixes

By Chelsey Smith • February 17, 2026
Flickering lights are more than just a minor annoyance or a scene from a spooky movie. While an occasional flicker might be harmless, persistent flickering can signal a deeper, more serious electrical issue. Understanding the root cause is crucial for ensuring the safety and integrity of your home or business's electrical system. Ignoring it could lead to damaged appliances, electrical shocks, or even a fire.  This guide will walk you through the common reasons why your lights might be flickering. We'll explore everything from simple fixes to complex problems that require a professional. By the end, you will know when you can handle the issue yourself and when it’s time to call in an expert.

Arc Flash Training: Why It’s Essential for Workplace Safety

By Chelsey Smith • January 29, 2026
Arc flash incidents are among the most dangerous electrical hazards in the workplace. They happen in an instant, but the consequences can be severe — from serious burns and permanent injuries to costly downtime and regulatory penalties. For organizations that work with or around electrical systems, arc flash training is not optional — it’s essential.

How to Become a Licensed Electrician in Ontario

By Chelsey Smith • January 3, 2026
Becoming a licensed electrician in Ontario is a rewarding career path, but it requires dedication, specific training, and a commitment to safety. The journey involves a structured apprenticeship, comprehensive education, and rigorous examinations to ensure you have the skills to work safely and effectively. This guide outlines the essential steps to earning your license and starting your career in the electrical trade. We'll cover the entire process, from finding an apprenticeship to passing your final certification exam. You will learn about the educational components, the hours of on-the-job training required, and the critical safety certifications that every electrician must have.
Electrician in white hard hat and gloves tests electrical panel with multimeter.

How to Hire a Reputable Electrician

By Sara DeSantis • November 24, 2025
Hiring an electrician can feel like a daunting task. You're entrusting someone with the safety and functionality of your home or business's electrical system. A faulty wire or a poorly installed panel isn't just an inconvenience; it can be a serious hazard. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to find and hire a trustworthy professional, ensuring your project is handled with the highest level of skill and safety. We'll cover how to verify credentials, the importance of specific safety training, and what sets a team like Len Cicero and staff apart from the competition. By the end, you'll have the confidence to choose an electrician who protects your property and gives you peace of mind.
Electrician in hard hat and safety vest inspecting electrical panel, smiling.

What Should I Ask an Electrician Before Hiring Them?

By Sara DeSantis • October 27, 2025
Hiring an electrician is a decision that directly impacts the safety and functionality of your home or business. Electrical work is not a DIY project; it requires specific skills, knowledge, and adherence to strict safety codes. Choosing the wrong person for the job can lead to faulty wiring, fire hazards, and costly repairs down the road. To ensure you hire a qualified and reliable professional, it’s essential to ask the right questions upfront. This guide will walk you through the critical questions you should ask any electrician before they start work. By gathering this information, you can make an informed decision and gain peace of mind knowing your property is in capable hands.
Two engineers in safety vests and hard hats in a factory, one pointing at a blueprint, the other smiling.

Understanding Workplace Arc Flash Safety Training

By Sara DeSantis • September 22, 2025
Working with or near electrical equipment comes with inherent risks. One of the most severe dangers is an arc flash—a sudden, explosive release of energy caused by an electric arc. These events can produce intense heat, light, and pressure, leading to devastating injuries, equipment damage, and even fatalities. Proper training is not just a regulatory requirement; it's a critical component of a safe workplace. This post will explore the essentials of arc flash safety training, who needs it, and how specialized programs can create a more secure environment for everyone. An arc flash is a source of potential injury or damage to health associated with the energy released from an electric arc. The consequences are severe, including third-degree burns, blindness, hearing loss, and injuries from the concussive blast. Effective arc flash safety training equips workers with the knowledge to recognize these hazards, assess risks, and apply safe work practices to prevent incidents. It's about building a culture of safety where every team member understands their role in preventing electrical accidents.
Woman in a hard hat and vest using a multimeter; another person in background.

Is Arc Flash Training Required for Electrician Apprentices?

By Sara DeSantis • August 18, 2025
When electrician apprentices begin their journey into the electrical trade, they face numerous safety challenges that could have life-altering consequences. Among the most dangerous hazards they'll encounter is the arc flash, a phenomenon that can cause severe burns, permanent injury, or death in milliseconds. This raises a critical question: Is arc flash training a mandatory part of apprentice education? The answer isn't just yes, it's absolutely essential. Arc flash training serves as a cornerstone of electrical safety education, equipping future electricians with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize hazards, prevent incidents, and protect both themselves and their colleagues from potentially catastrophic electrical events.
A group of construction workers are putting their hands together in a huddle.

Who Needs Arc Flash Training?

By Sara DeSantis • July 22, 2025
When it comes to workplace safety, particularly in industries dealing with electricity, arc flash training is non-negotiable. This specialized training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to recognize electrical hazards, prevent incidents, and protect themselves and others from dangerous arc flash incidents. But who exactly needs arc flash training? The answer may surprise you, as it extends beyond just electricians. Let's break it down.