Understanding Workplace Hazards: Flash Fire & Arc Flash Protection

Mar 23, 2017

Key takeaways from this article:

• Depending on the job, various dangers may arise, including thermal hazards like Flash Fire and Arc Flash.

• Flash Fire, a rapid flame front from diffuse fuels, is the main hazard in the Oil & Gas industry. NFPA® 2112 and NFPA® 2113 standards guide FR clothing for flash fire protection.

• Arc Flash, an explosive electrical malfunction, poses risks to workers around energized electrical equipment. Employers must provide arc-rated flame-resistant clothing.

• The success of FR clothing programs depends on appropriate selection, use, care, and maintenance.

• Bulwark FR provides expert guidance for implementing an FR clothing program.

Depending on the line of work you’re in, there are any number of dangers you may encounter on the job. From slip-and-fall hazards to those due to working at height, there’s PPE to help keep you protected. When it comes to thermal hazards, your FR clothing protects you against two main hazards: Flash Fire and Arc Flash.

Flash Fire
A flash fire is a rapid moving flame front that can be caused by a diffuse fuel, such as dust, gas, or the vapors of an ignitable liquid, without the production of damaging pressure. In the Oil & Gas industry, which includes exploration, drilling, field services and refining, flash fires are the primary hazard FR protects against.

NFPA® 2112 and NFPA® 2113 are the “go-to” industry consensus standards that address flash fire. Once safety managers have identified they have a flash fire hazard, FR is necessary. Selecting the appropriate FR garments for your safety program should be based on a number of factors such as protection, comfort and durability.

Arc Flash
An arc flash is a powerful and dangerous occurrence where an electric current leaves its anticipated path and travels from phase to phase, or phase to ground. The resulting explosion produces extremely high temperatures, acoustic energy and concussive force. When a person is in close proximity to the arc flash, serious burn injury and even death can occur.

The Arc Flash hazard affects all who work in and around energized electrical equipment. This can include general industry electricians, maintenance workers and operators, as well as our electric utilities, including transmission, distribution, generation and metering. As employers, it is your responsibility to ensure that all employees exposed to the hazard are protected with arc-rated flame-resistant clothing.

No matter which hazard your FR clothing is designed to address, the success of any program is dependent upon the proper selection, use, care and maintenance of your FR program. For more information on how to select the right FR for your needs and tips on implementing a FR clothing program, get in touch with a Bulwark FR expert.