Closing the Gaps in Arc Flash Hazard Mitigation A Review of US, Canada, and EU Standards

Electrical safety is highly regulated in all industrialized countries. Historically, the details of electrical hazard mitigation focused on measures to prevent electric shock. As awareness of arc flash as a unique hazard separate and distinct from shock emerged in the 1980s, standards began to address its mitigation. Comparing standards from North America and the European Union, there are both commonality and differences. This paper benchmarks recognized occupational electrical safety standards against the comprehensive hazard control measures in safety management systems standards. This analysis shows that current electrical safety standards do not provide a comprehensive solution, and that an effective arc hazard mitigation program depends on the integration of several standards.