White Paper Outlines Arc Flash Loss Prevention Program

Sept. 1, 2008
A white paper recently published by M.C. Dean, Inc., an Atlanta-based electrical construction and engineering firm, outlines six core steps businesses should follow to protect their workers and companies from arc flash explosions

A white paper recently published by M.C. Dean, Inc., an Atlanta-based electrical construction and engineering firm, outlines six core steps businesses should follow to protect their workers and companies from arc flash explosions:

  1. Discovery and engineering
  2. Identification and documentation
  3. Program preparation and administration
  4. Program training and certification
  5. Field execution and document review
  6. Program review and update.

Written specifically for non-technical managers and executives, “Establishing an Arc Flash Loss Prevention Program” uses easy-to-understand language to discuss arc flashes, arc flash loss, and the importance of having a definitive arc flash loss prevention (AFLP) program in place.

In the U.S. each day, five to 10 people are severely injured and one to two are killed by arc flash electrical explosions, says Mark Tibbetts, president/general manager of M.C. Dean, Inc. who helped author the paper.

“Because of the dangers of these electrical explosions, OSHA now legally requires employers to follow the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommended practices to protect workers from arc flash exposure,” he says. “Having a proper program in place to protect workers is beyond being the right thing to do. Now arc flash loss prevention is mandatory.”

In addition to outlining the six steps for a thorough AFLP, the white paper explains the impact and causes of arc flashes, includes a glossary of key terms, and answers frequently asked questions.

Authoring the arc flash white paper with Tibbetts are Dr. Robert E. Hoyt, John Welch — a critical power expert and manager of M.C. Dean, Inc.'s Critical Power Group Atlanta — and Apostolos (Tolis) Vranis, P.E., an electrical engineer with more than 26 years experience and vice president of electrical engineering for M.C. Dean, Inc.

To obtain a copy of “Establishing an Arc Flash Loss Prevention Program” or for more information on AFLP, contact John Welch at [email protected] or visit www.mcdean.com.

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