Implementation of an arc flash reduction maintenance switch — A case study

This paper presents a case study of an event that occurred in an industrial facility that resulted in an outage without extensive damage and no harm to employees due to proper use of arc flash reduction products and a safety program. The case in point will illustrate a design of a power distribution system that was approached with safety in mind as well as the safety program that complimented the design resulting in a much less severe event. Arc flash reduction solutions and techniques will be discussed, especially those that were used in this example. The safety program implemented at this facility will also be reviewed to illustrate the proper recipe for safety. This case illustrates how even working de-energized can present opportunities for accidents to occur that should be addressed through proper use of installed safety equipment coupled with the successful implementation of a safety program.