CDMS Electrical Engineers was engaged by Gosford City Council to review their management of Arc Flash hazards at their electrical installations throughout the LGA. Arc Flash Management Studies were carried out for all High Voltage Sites and key 415V high energy installations. A plan for managing Arc Flash Hazards in the workplace, along with a Standard Operating Procedure, was developed to assist in providing a workable solution. For further details on Power System Modelling services provided by CDMS Electrical on this project please contact the CDMS Electrical Team on +61 (08) 9421 9060.
Project Brief
Outcome
Engineering controls were adopted to minimise Arc Flash exposure. Where engineering controls were insufficient, appropriate PPE, based on incident energy calculations, was selected to protect electrical workers exposed to Arc Flash Hazards.
Background
Over the past 20 years Arc Flash Hazards and suitable control methods have been identified and documented in the electrical industry. With this awareness, a need to upgrade old electrical installations, and a focus on safety, Gosford City Council decided to develop the necessary systems and controls to minimise this risk.
Project Objectives
CDMS’s objective was to conduct the necessary incident energy calculations to determine the best hierarchical controls to manage the risks. A management system including a practical approach to manage Arc Flash Hazards was adopted. It was imperative to provide a combination of controls with PPE as the last line of defence.
Challenges
- To understand current Arc Flash management systems and culture and to offer improvements as necessary.
- To deliver a workable Arc Flash management system that meets and surpasses industry standards
Our Approach
In conjunction with the client, CDMS took the following approach to deliver a suitable outcome:
- Held initial detailed discussions on how to best manage the risks.
- Conduct the Arc Flash Studies based upon IEEE 1584 and NFPA70E Art 130.
- Provide a workable set of improvements to mitigate Arc Flash risk to acceptable levels.
