Arc Flash Labels

Creating and installing arc flash labels is the last important step of the arc flash study. Workers use labels to protect themselves by using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to perform energized work. It is important that the incident energy data on the labels match with the final authenticated report considering all the system operating scenarios. A few recommendations for arc flash labels are listed below:

Warning/Danger Banner :

An arc flash label usually has a warning or danger label. In the past, a danger label was used when the incident energy was higher than 40 Cal/cm2. A suitable PPE for more than 40 Cal/cm2 is available in the market, so it must be consulted with the client before deciding if a warning or danger label should be used when the incident energy is higher than 40 Cal/cm2 ​

Incident Energy Information:

Incident energy, working distance, and arc flash boundary are essential information on an arc flash label. This information must match with the arc flash report considering all operating scenarios. CSA Z462 requires that either calculated incident energy or arc flash category should be listed on the arc flash label, but not both. So do not list the arc flash category if incident energy is calculated using the software. ​

Shock Information

Similar to incident energy, shock hazard information is important information to protect workers from shock when energized work is performed. Ensure the information is correct based on the voltage level before labels are printed and installed.

PPE Reference: The client's electrical safety plan should be referred for PPE requirements. CSA Z462 or NFPA 70E should be referred if the client does not have an electrical safety plan.

Equipment Name: The equipment name on the label should match the electrical drawings, such as single line diagram, to properly identify the equipment. A proper tag number (HTR-BU003) rather than a generic description (building heater) should be used to identify equipment properly.

Protected By: The incident energy on equipment is calculated based on fault cleared by the upstream "protective device." For example, a three-phase lighting panel is fed from a breaker (protective device) in the MCC. A protective device name should be clearly written on the label for proper isolation.

Date: Every arc flash label should have a date on it so it can be determined when the study was completed and if there are any major modifications in the electrical system after the study is completed.

Standard: In 2018 there were significant modifications in the IEEE-1584 standard after 2002. The arc flash label should clearly mention if the study were completed based on the 2002 or 2018 version of the standard or if any other standard was used to perform the study.

Prepared By: The company name or report number on a label helps to refer back to the study.