ARC SAFETY - AUSTRALIA

RISK ASSESSMENT

Review the existing installation to assess the risk of Arc Flash
Arc Flash Risk Assessment
Risk Assessment Deliverables
Deliverables include:
  • Equipment Schedule
  • Condition Asessment Report
The risk assessment consists of a data collection phase, a modelling phase, a condition assessment, and finally an equipment schedule that quantifies the risk of arc flash at each switchboard or panel.
In some cases, the uncontrolled risk can be improved by technical measures such as improving protection discrimination.
The customer may then choose to label equipment according to the incident energy recorded in the equipment schedule.
  1. Data Collection
    Each switchboard, control panel, or accessible junction box is identified. Protection settings are recorded. Impedance elements are catalogued (e.g. transformers and major cables). Motor, generator and transformer datasheets are collected.
  2. Condition Assessment
    There is no risk of arc flash as long as certain conditions are met e.g. routine maintenance is complete. The purpose of the Condition Assessment is to ensure that these conditions have been met in each case.
  3. Modelling
    A numerical model of the network is constructed using industry standard tools such as SKM Powertools®. The model calculates fault current and protective device operating time. This provides incident energy data that is used to assess the arc flash risk.
  4. Protection Grading
    Experience has shown that many arc flash risks can be mitigated by improving protection grading. Mis-graded protection can be identified in the numerical model of the plant or network.
  5. Equipment Labelling
    The arc flash information contained in the equipment schedule is transferred to a label on each switchboard, control panel or junction box. This information can be used to establish an electrically safe work condition.