Mitigating electric shock and arc flash energy — A total system approach for personnel and equipment protection

This paper provides a comprehensive discussion for the application and selection of various techniques and technologies available for the reduction and mitigation of arc fault hazards to personnel and equipment. It also presents a broad approach that considers the total electrical system configuration and design. No one technology can address all safety concerns. Current available technologies for reducing arc flash hazard such as optical light detection, pressure detection, temperature detection, and current signatures are discussed and advantages and disadvantages of each technique are outlined. An analysis is presented of how a total system approach can optimize benefits of various technologies by utilizing complementary technologies, such as impedance grounding, equipment construction, and operational techniques. The importance of the fundamental power system configuration selection, equipment design aspects, and maintenance is also discussed.