Kick Off Summer Safely With Answers To Some Common Arc Flash Questions...

Erin M • May 29, 2019

With summer on the horizon, things are heating up in the arcflash.ca world! In our latest newsletter we’re going to touch base on some common, but vital, Arc Flash Q&As, the importance of keeping your work van clean, and the introduction of our brand new arcflash.ca course: The Safe Application of Fuses For Industrial Mechanics & Millwrights. Looking forward to your feedback on these topics, as well as answering any electrical safety questions you may have!


Common Arc Flash Q&As Answered!



Arc Flash Labels for Less than 1.2 cal/cm^2

When the calculated incident energy is less than 1.2 cal/cm^2, some state that no arc rated PPE is required and list this statement on the equipment (arc flash) label. Others advocate that a minimum arc rated PPE should be worn at all times when an arc flash hazard exists. What do you think?


Are you Familiar with the NFPA 70B

Condition of Maintenance is an important aspect of an arc flash study - i.e. have the protective devices been properly maintained? NFPA 70B, Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance is one standard that addresses this issue This discussion addresses the use of NFPA 70B.

Are you Familiar with the NETA Standard for Testing Electrical Equipment?

This survey question asks about the use and familiarity with NETA MTS Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Equipment and Systems . Have you heard of it? Do you have a copy? Do you use it? Let us know your thoughts.

Have a question? Ask it at the Arc Flash Forum. Since 2007, thousands of people have been using the Arc Flash Forum to ask their questions and provide answers and opinions.

For More Great Information On This - And Many More Topics! Click Here

ArcFlashForum.com

Hey Electricians, Don’t Let Nasty Germs Hitch A Ride In Your Work Van!


(re-posted from EC&M)

Investigation reveals some service vehicles carry more bacteria than a toilet door handle.

A tradesperson’s work van often acts as their second home, with many drivers spending much of their time on the road or taking breaks behind the wheel. While many people wouldn’t dream of leaving their home uncleaned, a recent survey revealed how dirty a tradesperson’s work vehicle can get.

Confused.com, a British financial services comparison website, partnered with the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Essex in Colchester, U.K., to investigate the various germs living in six trade vans belonging to:

·A builder

·A carpenter

·A dog groomer

·An electrician

·A bricklayer

·A plumber

The results showed that vans can harbor numerous germs, some of which can pose a serious threat to the health of their drivers. Findings revealed:

The handbrake is the most germ-ridden area, carrying germs that can cause skin or respiratory infections.

The most prominent bacteria found was Staphylococcus aureus — the effects of which can range from mild skin infections to life-threatening diseases.

Pathogens known to cause pneumonia and endocarditis, which can be fatal in extreme cases, were found in several areas of the vans.

Below are how the service vehicles ranked in order of dirtiness, including the tested toilet door handle:

·Bricklayer

·Builder

·Electrician

·Dog groomer

·Carpenter

·Plumber

·Toilet door handle

According to a survey of 500 van drivers conducted by Confused.com, nearly one in 10 (8%) admit they’ll only clean the inside of their van when it starts to smell, while only one in three (29%) will empty trash from their van daily. One in seven (14%) admit to never cleaning their van at all. Furthermore, more than half (55%) of respondents admitted to eating food in their van and then leaving the half-eaten food in place for as long as three days. More than one in seven (15%) claim to leave used tissues in their van frequently. Only one in seven (14%) said they wipe the surface immediately if they sneeze.

To help keep your work vehicle more health-friendly, see these tips on deep cleaning it.

For more information, click here

Have You Heard About The ***NEW*** Arcflash.ca Course: The Safe Application of Fuses For Industrial Mechanics & Millwrights

This course is intended to provide Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics with a better understanding of Canadian fuse products and their applications in order to minimize the possibility of misapplication, ensuring the safety of both equipment and personnel. In addition to providing, through practical scenarios the safe application of fuses to avoid personal injury.

1 day- 6.0 hours

Contact us today for more information.

Workplace Electrical Safety Online Course - $100 Per Person

The workplace electrical safety online course is based on the 2018 edition of CSA Z462. The course has been developed for workers who are performing electrical work on energized systems. It provides guidance on industry best practices for the prevention of injury from arc flash and shock.

Click here for more information or to purchase.

Electrical Safety Assistance? There’s An App For That!

Don’t forget, our NEW Arc Flash Electrical Worker Quick Field Guide APP is available on Google Play for just $2.99!

Buy Here

We hope you enjoyed all of the information in our Spring Newsletter and look forward to hearing from you, as well as bringing more up-to-date electrical safety information and tips in our Summer 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!


What is an Arc Flash and How to Prevent It

By Sara DeSantis • April 28, 2025
For electrical engineers, electricians, and safety managers, "arc flash" is a term that carries significant weight. Arc flash incidents are one of the most dangerous and potentially catastrophic hazards in the electrical industry. But what exactly is an arc flash, and more importantly, how can you prevent it? This blog will explain what arc flash is, why it occurs, and practical ways to safeguard your workplace and team from its dangers.
A group of men are working on a computer in a room.

Everything You Need to Know About Arc Flash Training

By Sara DeSantis • March 7, 2025
Electrical safety is a critical concern for professionals like electrical engineers, safety managers, and electricians. Among the many hazards in the field, arc flash incidents rank as some of the most dangerous, capable of causing severe injuries, equipment damage, or worse. If you work in Hamilton or Burlington, understanding what arc flash training involves and how it can protect individuals and assets is essential.
A group of men in blue overalls are giving each other a high five in a factory.

Why Electricians Need Arc Flash Training (And How to Get)

By Sara DeSantis • February 21, 2025
Working with electricity comes with inherent risks, and one of the most dangerous hazards is an arc flash. Every year, countless electricians, safety managers, and construction supervisors face incidents related to arc flash, which can cause severe injuries, equipment damage, and even fatalities. The solution? Comprehensive arc flash training. For electricians, staying safe isn’t just about wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE); it’s about understanding the risks, knowing how to prevent accidents, and being confident in addressing safety challenges. If you're in Hamilton or nearby, arcflash.ca offers high-quality training to equip you with this crucial knowledge.
Three men wearing hard hats and yellow vests are looking at a blueprint

Should You, as an Electrician, Have Arc Flash Training?

By Sara DeSantis • January 27, 2025
When working in the electrical industry, safety isn’t just a priority—it’s a necessity. The risks of working with electricity are extensive, and arc flash incidents are some of the most dangerous and potentially fatal hazards electricians, safety managers, and construction workers face. This brings us to an important question: Should you undergo arc flash training? The answer is a resounding yes, no matter how experienced you are with Electrical systems.
A sign on a chain link fence warns of electrical safety

Understanding Arc Flash – What Every Employee Needs to Know About Electrical Safety

By Sara DeSantis • December 19, 2024
Electrical safety is a critical concern in many workplaces, especially for those who work directly with or near electrical systems. One of the most serious hazards in these environments is an Arc Flash. This sudden burst of electrical energy can cause devastating injuries, equipment damage, and even fatalities. Understanding the risks and learning how to protect yourself is essential for anyone working around electricity. Here’s what every employee needs to know about Arc Flash and electrical safety.

Changes to the 2024 Edition of CSA Z462

By Len Cicero • October 10, 2023
In this article, I discuss the new changes with the 2024 Edition.

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

By 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!

March Electrical Safety Announcements, Exciting News Inside!

By Erin M • March 11, 2020
Overall, the 2018 OESR shows a downward trend in electrical fatalities and electrical injuries in Ontario . But there is still more work to do! Take a look at the full document here, and feel free to email or call Len with any questions you may have!

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

By Erin M • February 10, 2020
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 !

Happy Holidays From Arcflash.ca...

By Erin M • December 17, 2019
Arcflash.ca would like to wish everyone all the best to you and your families for a safe and happy holiday season - and best wishes in the upcoming year!
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