How often should an arc flash study be done?

The frequency at which an arc flash study should be done depends on several factors, including the complexity of the electrical system and the rate at which changes are made to the system. Some key factors to consider when determining the frequency of an arc flash study include:

1. Regulatory requirements: Some regulatory bodies, such as OSHA, require that an arc flash study be done periodically. For example, OSHA’s regulations state that an arc flash study should be performed whenever a change is made to the electrical system that could affect the arc flash hazards.
2. Changes to the electrical system: Any changes made to the electrical system, such as adding new equipment or modifying existing equipment, should prompt a review of the existing arc flash study. This is because changes to the system can affect the incident energy levels and the protective measures that are required to protect workers.
3. Age of the equipment: As equipment ages, it may become more prone to failure, increasing the risk of an arc flash. Therefore, regular arc flash studies should be conducted if the equipment is aging or showing signs of deterioration.
4. OSHA or NFPA 70E standards: OSHA standards suggests the arc flash study should be done in accordance with NFPA 70E, which recommends that an arc flash study be conducted at least every 5 years or whenever a significant change is made to the electrical system.
5. Industry standards: Some industry standards and guidelines recommend regular arc flash studies based on the nature of the facility or equipment. For example, facilities that use large amounts of electrical energy, such as manufacturing plants, may require more frequent studies than facilities with lower electrical use levels.

Based on these factors, an arc flash study may need to be done more frequently for certain facilities or equipment and less frequently for others. It is important to note that, it is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that the equipment and safety is up-to-date and adhering to standards to protect the employees.

Ultimately, the frequency of an arc flash study should be based on an assessment of the specific hazards present in the facility and the likelihood of those hazards causing an arc flash incident. It is important to consult with a qualified professional or hire an engineering consulting firm to determine an appropriate schedule for arc flash studies in your facility.