Arc flash hazard reduction: Learnings from the IEEE Petroleum and Chemical Industry Committee

Abstract

Managing the risks of fire and explosion in highly hazardous processes is inherent to manufacturing operations in the petrochemical industry. As early as the 1960s, some petrochemical companies had begun applying knowledge of managing the risk of personnel exposure to hydrocarbon fires and explosions to the electrical arc flash hazard. These practices evolved and formed the basis of arc flash protection requirements that first appeared in NFPA70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, in 1995. This paper provides: (1) a brief history on the development of arc flash hazard management and mitigation methods, and (2) lessons learned from experiences shared within the Petroleum and Chemical Industry Committee of the IEEE Industry Applications Society in implementing a comprehensive arc flash hazard management and mitigation program. General background and lessons learned from practical experience Included are: (3) An overview of current standards and regulations (4) Design practices proven to eliminate or reduce risk of exposure (5) Hazard analysis techniques (6) Getting management and worker buy in (7) Safe work practices (8) Role and current state of personal protective clothing.