Issue #8    ITU’s New “Bare-Bones” Arc Flash Analysis

We at Industrial Training University are now offering a more affordable “Limited” version of our popular Arc Flash Analysis Program. This is an effort for ITU to compete with companies offering this very basic type of Arc Flash Analysis. This new “Bare-Bones” Arc Flash Analysis is a cheaper way to get in limited compliance with NFPA 70E 130.3. This analysis takes into consideration, “Exception 1” in section 130.3 of the NFPA 70E.


NFPA 70E section 130.3 states the following:
“The Arc Flash Hazard Analysis shall take into consideration the design of the overcurrent protective device and its opening time, including its condition of maintenance.”
Exception No.1 says: An Arc Flash Hazard Analysis shall not be required where all the following conditions exist:


1. The circuit is rated 240 volts or less.


2. The circuit is supplied by one transformer only. (Many circuits are supplied with multiple transformers which doubles the voltage, per unit, in your facilities electrical distribution system)


3. The transformer supplying the circuit is rated less than 125kVA. (This is subject to change in the next NFPA 70E Revision)
Arc Flash Analysis


This drastically reduces the cost of the Arc Flash Analysis!


However, it is very important that you know and understand that this basic “bare-bones” type of Arc Flash Analysis does not get your business or facility in full compliance with all of NFPA 70E’s requirements or OSHA 29CFR 1910.333’s requirements. This type of Arc Flash Analysis is being performed all over the country and company owners are being told that they are in full compliance once the analysis is complete. This is only partially true.


The key components that are missing from this “Bare-Bones” Arc Flash Analysis:

  • It does not give you the information needed in order to choose the correct Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) at all points likely to be serviced by a worker. NFPA 70E 130.3(B)(1)
  • It does not provide you and your personnel with the required approach boundary information on panels below 240 volts. NFPA 70E Annex C Limits of Approach
  • It does not give you the information needed to properly label all electrical panels category “1” and above with ANSI Z535 (ANSI Z535.1-,4 2002 Sign Standard) approved arc flash labels. NFPA 70E 130.3(C)
  • It does not include a “complete” one-line diagram or drawing. A one-line drawing must be a completed and up to date diagram of your facility’s electrical distribution system.
  • It will likely not include the required NFPA 70E Electrical Safety Training.
  • It does not give you all the information necessary to create a safe work environment. OSHA 1910.333
  • It will not include a certificate of compliance.
  • It will not include labeling category “0” electrical panels.



When an OSHA representative comes to your facility to do an inspection one of the first things he or she will check is to see if you have an electrical safety procedure in place and if your electrical panels are properly labeled. Next, the inspector will ask if you have provided the appropriate PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) and the necessary training in order for the maintenance personnel to be considered “Qualified Workers”. They may want to see a current electrical One-Line diagram or drawing of your facility as well.


In layman’s terms, With this “Limited” Analysis only the panels that are properly labeled will be in compliance with NFPA 70E. When you choose this basic type of Arc Flash Analysis your facility will not be in full compliance. Don’t let others miss-lead you into thinking you are!


Industrial Training University is offering this “Limited” Arc Flash Analysis service to you at an amazing price. If you have never had an analysis performed we recommend that at least this basic “Bare-Bones” Arc Flash Analysis be performed. However, we highly encourage you to consider our complete Turn-Key Arc Flash Analysis so that your facility is in full compliance with OSHA and NFPA 70E’s requirements. Our complete Turn-Key Arc Flash Analysis provides the safest work environment for you and your employees. It includes everything that the “Bare Bones” analysis includes plus all the bulleted components mentioned above plus much more all at an affordable price.