EC&M Asks Video — Are DC Systems More Dangerous Than AC Systems?

Oct. 26, 2022

In Episode 2, Tommy Northcott, P.E. answers reader-submitted questions regarding arc flash hazards, what type of PPE to wear, and information regarding arc flash calculations.

Tommy Northcott

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In this episode of “EC&M Asks,” our subject matter expert Tommy Northcott, P.E., a senior power engineer and branch manager for Jacobs Technology, Inc., answers reader-submitted questions regarding arc flash hazards, what type of PPE to wear, and information regarding arc flash calculations. With almost 20 years in the electrical industry as an electrical engineer, project manager, arc flash program manager, electrical safety trainer, and utility manager, Northcott brings a broad range of experience into his passion toward electrical safety. Northcott has a B.S. in electrical engineering and is a licensed Professional Engineer in two states. He is also a principal committee member on the NFPA 70B Committee for Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance.

“EC&M Asks” is a video series that enlists the technical expertise of our brand’s subject matter experts to answer our readers’ most pressing electrical questions. Posted twice per month, these quick videos offer Q&As on topics related to various installations, applications, and troubleshooting scenarios. When our readers ask, EC&M answers.

About the Author

Tommy Northcott | Senior Power Engineer

Northcott earned a BS Degree in Electrical Engineering with an emphasis in Power Systems from Tennessee Technological University. He is a Professional Engineer licensed in the State of Tennessee, a Certified Reliability Leader, and a Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional and is a current principle member on the NFPA 70B committee (Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance). Tommy has broad experience working with large electric utility systems as a Systems Engineer, Arc Flash Program Manager, Operations and Maintenance Manager, and Reliability Engineering Manager. Tommy has extensive experience in operations and maintenance of electrical equipment, performing arc flash analysis calculations, developing and conducting electrical safety training and developing company electrical safety standards to ensure OSHA and NFPA 70E compliance. Currently, Tommy is a Senior Power Engineer with Jacobs Technology Inc.