The Effects of System Grounding, Bus Insulation, and Probability on Arc Flash Hazard Reduction—The Missing Links

This paper provides a discussion on the theory behind reducing the risk and severity of an arc flash incident. In particular, the variables associated with the calculations of energy from an arcing fault are presented in an effort to show the futility of present methods for determining incident energy levels in the electrical industry. A number of commonly ignored design concepts that significantly reduce the risk of electrical hazards will be discussed, two of which include: 1) system grounding; and 2) solid insulation. This paper will discuss risk and the management of risk as a means of reducing the probability of an incident. It will then show how risk reduction should be used in the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of electrical equipment as means for the safeguarding of employees in the workplace.