IEEE P1584.1 to Address Worker Safety in Arc Flash Hazard
July 24, 2009 // Published as a news service by IHS
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is developing IEEE P1584.1 - Guide for the Specification of Scope and Deliverable Requirements for an Arc-Flash Hazard Calculation Study in Accordance with IEEE 1584.
IEEE P1584.1, based on IEEE 1584 - IEEE Guide for Performing Arc Flash Calculations, is a arc flash standard related to protecting workers from the dangers of arc flash phenomena.
According to the IEEE, which is collaborating on the project with the National Fire Protection Association, the standard will define the minimum safety guidelines for the specification and performance of arc flash hazard calculation studies.
When finished, IEEE P1584.1 will outline the minimum recommended requirements to enable the owner or its representative to specify an arc flash study including scope of work and associated deliverables.
Arc flash is an electric current that is passed through air when insulation or isolation between electrified conductors is no longer sufficient to withstand the applied voltage. The flash is immediate, but the results can cause severe injury, according to the IEEE.
About 2,000 times a year, workers are admitted to burn centers for injury treatment caused by arc flash.
For more information, visit IEEE's Arc Flash Phenomena web page.
Source: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Standards Association (IEEE-SA).