Electrical Safety & Lockout Services During The COVID-19 Pandemic & More Valuable Information.

Erin M • April 21, 2020

At Arcflsah.ca safety isn't just something we train, but rather a value that we live by. Our hearts truly go out to all of those who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and appreciate all of the hard work and sacrifices being made by all of the frontline workers. We want to let you know that during this time we are taking proper precautions to help keep everyone safe during this difficult time and are still available to assist you should you need us! Online electrical safety courses and other resources are also available here

We're all in this together!

Circuit Breaker Lockout Panel Lockout®

In my travels over the past 26 years a common question that I get asked from fellow electricians is “how do I lockout a circuit breaker in a panel”. There are a number of universal circuit breaker lockout devices available on the market that are well made and will successfully lockout the breaker with a lockout device and tag attached. The challenges are, depending on the age of the panel and the depth of the trim, the panel door may not close or may remain ajar when one attaches a lockout device. This can be particularly problematic in public areas. In addition, as good as some of the circuit breaker lockout devices are, they may not adopt to all manufacturers.

Having said this, something maintenance personnel may consider is a Panel Lockout®. It locks out circuit breakers by locking out the entire electrical panel. It attaches to the panel cover screws and keeps the panel door locked. The device encapsulates two screws which prevents the panel cover from being removed. The circuit breakers remain locked out while work is being done. A tag (if used) has the contact information of the worker in case access to the panel is needed.

The Panel Lockout® locks any size, brand or type breaker. Several breakers can be locked out with one padlock.

If your panel has no screws exposed on the panel there are clips available for these panels, they come with installation instructions. If you have a panel without screws, and you don’t think the clips will work, please call us for additional options.

The Panel Lockout® can also used to prevent shutdowns of critical equipment. It stops unauthorized persons from accessing electrical circuit breaker panels, security panels and data center panels. Lock the panel so that only those that are authorized have the key. Therefore, circuit breakers remain locked on.

The Panel Lockout® device can be more secure and versatile than individual circuit breaker lockouts. For instance, it can lock out several breakers with one lock. In addition, the panel door is locked closed with the Panel Lockout®. As mentioned, the panel door may remain ajar with circuit breaker lockouts. The Panel Lockout® is universal for most panels. Also, circuit breaker lockouts may fall off and can be difficult to install because there is a chance of tripping an adjacent breaker. But the Panel lockout® is sturdy and can not fall off. There is no chance of inadvertently tripping another breaker. It installs in seconds. In conclusion, the Panel Lockout® is a faster, safer and less expensive way to lockout out a circuit breaker!

Arcing Short Circuit CurrentBy Jim Phillips, P.E.

When calculating the incident energy and arc flash boundary as part of an arc flash study/risk assessment, one of the main variables is the arcing short circuit current. This is not the same as the traditional “bolted” short circuit current that is often used to evaluate the interrupting rating of protective devices. The “arcing” short circuit current flows across an air gap during an arc flash and because of the additional impedance from the arc is always less than the bolted short circuit current. Why would less current be so important? It seems like more current would be worse. It is because another very important variable is the duration of the arc flash which is normally defined by how long it takes an upstream protective device to trip. The lower arcing current may cause a protective device to take longer to trip - resulting in a greater (and more dangerous) incident energy. 1980’S - NO ARCING CURRENT There has been quite an evolution in how the arcing short circuit current is handled. Back in the 1980’s a.k.a. the early days of arc flash calculations, the equations were quite primitive by today’s standards. In fact, the arcing current was not even considered - only the bolted short circuit current was used.

When determining how long a protective device may take to operate, using the bolted short circuit could indicate the protective device trips instantaneously resulting in a lower incident energy when in fact, the lower (and unknown) arcing current could actually result in the device taking longer to trip. 2000 –BOLTED CURRENT AND 38 PERCENT Equations from a technical paper published in 2000 are listed in CSA Z462 Annex D. These equations are based on actual
arc flash testing – a significant improvement. However, there was still no equation for calculating the arcing current. Instead, this method contains a “work around” for arcing current which states: “For 480 and 600-volt systems, the industry accepted minimum level for a sustaining arcing fault is 38 percent of the available bolted fault” That was it. Just multiply the bolted fault current by 38 percent and evaluate the lower current to see if it resulted in a longer
device clearing time and a worst-case incident energy. 2002 - ARCING CURRENT AND 85 PERCENT When the first edition of IEEE 1584 was published in 2002, one of more significant improvements was the introduction of arcing short circuit current equations. However, since there could be many unknown factors that influence the actual arcing current, it was commonly referred to as “estimate”. As an estimate, what if the actual arcing current was lower? It could again possibly result in the protective device taking longer to operate and lead to a greater incident energy. The solution? Add an additional step where the estimated arcing current would simply be multiplied by 85 percent and the protective device operating time would be re-evaluated with the slightly lower current. The 100% case and 85% case would be compared
and the worst case would be used for the study result. The 85% multiplier was used for all arcing current calculations for systems under 1000 Volts. 2018 – ARCING CURRENT AND VARCF Based on almost 2000 new arc flash tests, the 2018 Edition of IEEE 1584 has made further improvements to the arcing current calculations for greater accuracy. However, the new equations are much more complex and include different electrode configurations, ten different
coefficients as well as other variables. The process involves several calculation steps including determining the “Intermediate Average Arcing Current” with equations based on 600, 2700 and 14,300 volts.

The second step is to use the intermediate current(s) and solve for the final arcing current at the specific system voltage. Similar to the 2002, edition, a second arc duration is calculated using a reduced arcing current to determine if there is an effect on the protective device operating time. Unlike the fixed value of 85% used in the 2002 edition, the 2018 edition
has introduced a new equation for an Arcing Current Variation Correction Factor VarCf which is used for all voltages from 208 to 15,000. The VarCf is heavily voltage dependent and has the greatest impact at voltages between 208 to 600 volts. THE EVOLUTION CONTINUES It has taken several decades, hundreds of people, tens of thousands of manhours and millions of dollars in research to move our understanding of arc flash and related calculations to this level.
Some say the cost and time is too much. For electrical worker’s that have survived an arc flash with minimal or no injuries because of this effort, they know it is well worth it.

Based on my article originally published in Electrical Contractor Magazine – March 2019 Jim Phillips, P.E. founder of Brainfiller.com and ArcFlashForum.com is Vice-Chair of IEEE 1584, Steering Committee member IEEE/NFPA Arc Flash Collaborative Research Project, and International Chair of IEC TC78 Live Working Committee. He is a Senior Member of IEEE, Member of ASTM, NFPA and the IET.

"During this time of isolation, join our friends at www.ArcFlashForum.com for discussions about arc flash and electrical safety. The forum was created in 2007 and has gained a global following which includes a section devoted to CSA Z462. See you there!" - Jim Phillips

During This Time Of Crisis Help When You Can!

That is me - Len behind the N95 mask stocking shelves and helping out at the Good Shepherd Food Bank in Hamilton ON. At this time of world crisis, it is good to help with the underprivileged. The Good Shepherd is a wonderful and caring organization!

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 and your loved ones are staying safe and healthy, remember we are here if you need us! 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 ο»Ώ 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. πŸ‘‰ 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. ο»Ώ 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.