Introduction: The Pennsylvania State University Energized Electrical Safety Program Purpose: Electricity is a serious workplace hazard, capable of causing both employee injury and property damage. It is the policy of the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) to protect all employees, students, and other personnel from potential electrical hazards. This will be accomplished through compliance with the work practices described herein along with effective application of engineering controls, administrative controls, and the use of personal protective equipment. The PSU electrical safety program is founded on the principle of avoiding energized work unless it is absolutely necessary. Live parts will be deenergized before an employee works on or near them unless one of the following conditions applies: Deenergizing introduces additional or increased hazards. Examples of additional or increased hazards would include interruption of life support equipment, deactivation of emergency alarm systems, or shutdown of hazardous location ventilation systems. Deenergizing is not possible due to equipment design or operational limitations. Examples of this situation would include testing of electrical circuits that can only be performed with the circuit energized and work on circuits that form an integral part of a continuous process that would otherwise need to be completely shut down in order to permit work on one circuit or piece of equipment. Live parts are operating at less than 50 volts to ground and there is no increased exposure to electrical burns or to explosion due to electrical arcs. Live parts are to be deenergized in accordance with the PSU Lockout/Tagout Program. If live parts are not placed in an electrically safe condition, the work practices described in this document must be used to protect employees. This program has been established in order to: Ensure the safety of employees who may work on or near electrical systems. Ensure that work units understand and comply with safety standards related to electrical work. Ensure that work units follow uniform practices during the completion of electrical work. Scope & Applicability: This program applies to all Penn State properties and work performed by Penn State employees regardless of job site location. The Hershey Medical Center and the College of Medicine are exempt from this program. Page 1 of 30
Table of Contents 1.0 References 2.0 Responsibilities 3.0 Definitions 4.0 Training 5.0 Working On or Near Live Parts 5.1 Energized electrical work permit 5.2 Testing, troubleshooting and voltage measuring 5.3 Approach boundaries to live parts 5.4 Other precautions for personnel activities 6.0 Personal Protective Equipment 6.1 General requirements 6.2 Flash protection boundary 6.3 Flame-resistant apparel & underlayers 6.4 Rubber insulating equipment 7.0 Insulated Tools & Equipment 8.0 Labeling 9.0 Alerting Techniques 10.0 Contract Employees Appendix A: Appendix B: Appendix C: Appendix D: Appendix E: Appendix F: Appendix G: Appendix H: Energized Electrical Work Permit Approach Boundaries to Live Parts for Shock Protection Hazard/Risk Category Classifications Protective Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment Matrix PPE for Common Electrical Work Tasks at PSU Work Unit PPE Requirements for Energized Tasks Inspection Schedule for Rubber Insulating Equipment Arc Flash Warning Label (Example) Page 2 of 30
1.0 References: The following documents were used as references when developing this program: NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, 2009 edition OSHA 29 CFR 1910.331 through 1910.335, Electrical Safety-Related Work Practices Pennsylvania State University Lockout/Tagout Program- SY35 2.0 Responsibilities: 2.1 Budget Executives and Budget Administrators Ensure that responsibilities assigned within this program are carried out within their administrative work unit. Designate individuals responsible for the implementation of the electrical safety program within their work unit. Actively support this program as part of the work unit s overall safety effort. 2.2 Environmental Health and Safety Department Assist work units in implementing the provisions of this program. Periodically review and update this written program. Provide or coordinate general training for work units on the content of this program. Evaluate the overall effectiveness of the electrical safety program on a periodic basis. Serve as chair of PSU Electrical Safety Committee. 2.3 Safety Officers Determine the applicability of the electrical safety program to activities conducted within their work unit. Coordinate implementation of the electrical safety program within the work unit. Assist in the investigation of all injuries and incident involving electrical work. Ensure that the records outlined in section 4.0 of this program are maintained for their work unit. 2.4 Supervisors Ensure employees comply with all provisions of the electrical safety program. Ensure that electrical equipment is labeled with appropriate arc flash warning labels. Ensure employees receive training appropriate to their assigned electrical tasks and maintain documentation of such training. Page 3 of 30
Develop and maintain a listing of all qualified employees under their supervision. Ensure employees are provided with and use appropriate protective equipment. 2.5 Employees Follow the work practices described in this document, including the use of appropriate protective equipment and completion of pre-use inspections. Attend all training required relative to this program. Immediately report any concerns related to electrical safety to supervision. 2.6 OPP Electrical Engineering Complete calculations required by this program when needed. Place an emphasis on controlling electrical hazards through the application of engineering and design controls. 2.7 PSU Electrical Safety Committee Meet on a periodic basis to review electrical safety issues at PSU. Review all energized electrical work permits submitted for approval. Promote consistency in how electrical tasks are completed within the various work units of PSU. 3.0 Definitions: The following terms are defined in order to allow a better understanding of this program: Arc rating: The maximum incident energy resistance demonstrated by a material (or a layered system of materials) prior to breaking open or at the onset of a second-degree skin burn. This rating is assigned to electrical protective clothing and is normally expressed in calories per square centimeter (cal/cm 2 ). Electrically safe work condition: A state in which the conductor or circuit part to be worked on or near has been disconnected from energized parts, locked/tagged in accordance with PSU policy, tested to ensure the absence of voltage, and grounded if determined necessary. Energized: Electrically connected to or having a source of voltage. Exposed (as applied to live parts): Capable of being inadvertently touched or approached from closer than a safe distance by a person. It is applied to parts that are not suitably guarded, isolated, or insulated. Flash hazard analysis: A study investigating a worker s potential exposure to arc-flash energy, conducted for the purpose of injury prevention and the determination of safe work practices along with appropriate levels of PPE. Flash protection boundary: An approach limit at a distance from exposed live parts within which a person could receive a second degree burn if an electrical arc flash were to occur. Page 4 of 30
4.0 Training: PSU Energized Electrical Safety Program Flash suit: A complete FR clothing and equipment system that covers the entire body, except for the hands and feet. (Such a suit typically includes pants, jacket, and a bee-keeper style hood fitted with a face shield). FR apparel: Flame-resistant apparel; describes a broad category of clothing designed to protect employees from electrical arc events during completion of energized tasks. Incident energy: The amount of energy impressed on a surface, a certain distance from the source, generated during an electrical arc event. One of the units used to measure incident energy is calories per square centimeter (cal/cm 2 ). Limited approach boundary: An approach limit at a distance from an exposed live part within which a shock hazard exists. Live parts: Energized conductive components. Prohibited approach boundary: An approach limit at a distance from an exposed live part within which work is considered the same as making contact with the live part. An acronym for Personal Protective Equipment. Qualified person: One who has skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of the electrical equipment and installation and has received training on the hazards involved. Restricted approach boundary: An approach limit at a distance from an exposed live part within which there is an increased risk of shock (due to electrical arc-over combined with inadvertent movement) for personnel working in close proximity to the live part. Testing and Troubleshooting: Process of analyzing the operation of a faulty piece of electrical equipment/circuit in order to determine why it is not functioning normally. The multimeter is a commonly used piece of testing equipment used to measure voltage and resistance. As soon as tools such as a screwdriver, wrench, pliers, etc are used on or near a live circuit, the task is no longer considered testing and troubleshooting. Unqualified person: Any person who does not meet the definition of a qualified person. Working near (live parts): Any activity within a Limited Approach Boundary. Working on (live parts): Coming in contact with live parts via tools, probes, test equipment, hands, feet, or other body parts regardless of the level of PPE worn. There are two categories of working on : Diagnostic (testing) is taking readings or measurements of electrical equipment with approved test equipment that does not require making any physical change to the equipment; repair is any physical alteration of electrical equipment (such as making or tightening connections, removing or replacing components, etc.) 4.1 Employees who are exposed to an electrical hazard that is not reduced to a safe level by the installation (panel cover, outlet cover, etc) must be trained. Page 5 of 30
4.2 Training must be provided before the employee is assigned duties that involve work near or on electrical systems. 4.3 The level of electrical safety training provided is dependent on whether the employee is classified as a qualified person or unqualified person. 4.4 A qualified person shall be trained and knowledgeable in all of the following topics: 1.) Construction and operation of equipment on which work is assigned. 2.) Skills and techniques necessary to distinguish exposed energized parts from other parts of electrical equipment. 3.) Skills and techniques necessary to determine the nominal voltage of exposed live parts. An individual can obtain knowledge in the three topics listed above through a combination of methods including the individual s education, electric license, past work experience, and on-the-job training. 4.) The approach distances specified in this document and the corresponding voltages to which the qualified employee will be exposed. 5.) The process necessary to determine the degree and extent of electrical hazards along with the PPE and job planning necessary to perform the task safely. An individual must attend an NFPA 70E training session approved by EHS to obtain the required knowledge of the two topics listed above. 4.5 A person can be considered qualified with respect to certain equipment and methods but unqualified for others. 4.6 An unqualified person shall be trained in the inherent hazards of electricity and any related work practices that are necessary for their safety. 4.7 Each work unit shall maintain a record of all electrical training provided to their employees along with a listing of all employees classified as qualified persons. 5.0 Working On or Near Live Parts: 5.1 Energized Electrical Work Permit: 5.1.1 If live parts are not placed in an electrically safe condition, work to be performed shall be considered energized electrical work and will be performed by written permit only. 5.1.2 A copy of the PSU Energized Electrical Work Permit can be found in Appendix A of this document. The intent of this permit is to ensure that all appropriate safety precautions are taken prior to starting energized electrical work. Page 6 of 30
5.1.3 The permit is to be originated by the individual requesting that the energized work be completed. The requestor is responsible for completing Section I of the permit. o The requestor will normally be the supervisor of the employees who will be completing the work. o The requestor may also be an individual from a work unit where the work is to be completed. If this is the case, Section I of the permit must be completed by a unit administrator. 5.1.4 The qualified persons completing the task are responsible for completing Section II of the permit. 5.1.5 Members of the PSU Electrical Safety Committee must approve the permit prior to commencing work. An approval signature must be obtained from one committee member within each of the following three groups: OPP Electrical Engineer Member of EHS Safety Officer of Work Unit (if at University Park) or Commonwealth Services Representative (if at a campus location). 5.1.6 A job briefing is required before the start of each job involving energized electrical work. Each qualified person shall be briefed on the job. At a minimum the briefing must include the following: associated electrical hazards, work procedures, special precautions, isolation points and procedures, emergency response, PPE requirements, and other work in the immediate area. 5.1.7 The permit must be posted in the area where the energized work is taking place for the duration of the task. 5.1.8 At least two qualified employees must be present for all energized work requiring a permit. 5.1.9 If both qualified employees are working on the circuit, an attendant is required to control any unqualified person from entering the limited approach boundary. The attendant can be an unqualified person as long as he or she remains outside the limited approach boundary. 5.1.10 Copies of all energized electrical work permits must be provided to both the work unit Safety Officer and the EHS Department upon completion of the task. Page 7 of 30
5.2 Testing, Troubleshooting, and Voltage Measuring PSU Energized Electrical Safety Program 5.2.1 Work related to testing, troubleshooting, and voltage measuring may be completed without an energized electrical permit provided appropriate safe work practices and PPE are used. 5.3 Approach Boundaries to Live Parts: 5.3.1 Observing a safe approach distance from exposed energized parts is an effective means of maintaining electrical safety. As the distance between an individual and live parts increases, the potential for an electrical injury decreases. 5.3.2 Safe approach distances will be determined for all tasks in which approaching personnel are exposed to live parts. 5.3.3 Safe approach distances to fixed live parts can be determined by referring to Appendix B, Approach Boundaries to Live Parts for Shock Protection. This appendix can be used to identify the Limited, Restricted, and Prohibited Approach Boundaries associated with various system voltages. 5.3.4 Unqualified persons may only cross the Limited Approach Boundary when they are under the direct supervision of a qualified person. 5.3.5 Qualified persons may not cross or take any conductive object closer than the Restricted Approach Boundary unless one of the following conditions applies: The qualified person is insulated or guarded from the live parts and no uninsulated part of the qualified person s body crosses the Prohibited Approach Boundary. The live parts are insulated from the qualified person and from any other conductive object at a different potential. 5.3.6 Crossing the Prohibited Approach Boundary is considered the same as making contact with energized parts. Qualified persons may only cross this boundary when all of the following precautions have been taken: The qualified person has specific training to work on energized parts. The qualified person has obtained an approved Energized Electrical Work Permit. Page 8 of 30
The qualified person uses PPE appropriate for working on energized parts which is rated for the voltage and energy level involved. 5.4 Other Precautions for Personnel Activities: 5.4.1 Employees shall not reach blindly into areas that might contain exposed live parts. 5.4.2 Employees shall not enter spaces containing live parts unless illumination is provided that allows the work to be performed safely. 5.4.3 Conductive articles of jewelry and clothing (such as watchbands, bracelets, rings, key chains, necklaces, metalized aprons, cloth with conductive thread, metal headgear, or metal frame glasses) shall not be worn where they present an electrical contact hazard with exposed live parts. 5.4.4 Conductive materials, tools, and equipment that are in contact with any part of an employee s body shall be handled in a manner that prevents accidental contact with live parts. Such materials and equipment include, but are not limited to, long conductive objects such as ducts, pipes, tubes, conductive hose and rope, metal-lined rules and scales, steel tapes, pulling lines, metal scaffold parts, structural members, and chains. 5.4.5 When an employee works in a confined space or enclosed space (such as a manhole or vault) that contains exposed live parts, the employee shall use protective shields, barriers, or insulating materials as necessary to avoid contact with these parts. Doors, hinged panels, and the like shall be secured to prevent them from swinging into employees. 6.0 Personal Protective Equipment: 6.1 General Requirements 6.1.1 Employees working in areas where electrical hazards are present shall be provided with, and shall use, protective equipment that is designed and constructed for the specific body part to be protected and for the work to be performed. 6.1.2 Work units will provide electrical protective equipment required by this program at no cost to employees, such as FR apparel, eye protection, head protection, hand protection, insulated footwear, and Page 9 of 30
face shields. Work units are not responsible for providing non-fr underlayers to employees. 6.1.3 All protective equipment shall be maintained in a safe, reliable condition by the employee to whom it is issued. 6.1.4 Employees shall wear nonconductive head protection whenever there is a danger of head injury from electric shock or burns due to contact with live parts or from flying objects resulting from an electrical explosion. 6.1.5 Employees shall wear nonconductive protection for the face, neck, and chin whenever there is danger of injury from exposure to electric arcs or flashes or from flying objects resulting from an electrical explosion. 6.1.6 Employees shall wear protective equipment for the eyes whenever there is a danger of injury from electric arcs, flashes, or from flying objects resulting from an electrical explosion. 6.1.7 Employees shall wear rubber insulating gloves where there is danger of hand and arm injury due to contact with live parts or possible exposure to arc flash burn. The following ratings can be found on voltage rated gloves: Class 00 = Protect against voltage up to 500 volts Class 0 = Protect against voltage up to 1,000 volts Class 1 = Protect against voltage up to 7,500 volts Class 2 = Protect against voltage up to 17,000 volts Class 3 = Protect against voltage up to 26,500 volts Class 4 = Protect against voltage up to 36,000 volts 6.1.8 Where insulated footwear is used as protection against step and touch potential, dielectric overshoes shall be required. Insulated footwear shall not be used as the primary protection. The integrity of the insulating quality of such footwear cannot be established easily after the worker has been wearing them in the working environment. 6.1.9 Face shields without an arc rating will not be used for electrical work. Safety glasses or goggles must always be worn underneath face shields. 6.1.10 Additional illumination may be needed when using tinted face shields as protection during electrical work. 6.1.11 Employees shall wear hearing protection whenever there is a danger of noise overexposure resulting from an electrical explosion. Page 10 of 30
6.2 Flash Protection Boundary 6.2.1 Personal protective equipment shall be provided to and used by all employees working within the Flash Protection Boundary. 6.2.2 For systems that are 600 volts or less, the Flash Protection Boundary shall be a minimum of four feet, based on the product of clearing time of 2 cycles (0.033 sec) and the available bolted fault current of 50 KA or any combination not exceeding 100 ka cycles (1667 ampere seconds). The Flash Protection Boundary for systems under 600 volts may also be calculated through engineering analysis using Annex D of NFPA 70E (2009 edition). 6.2.3 For systems that are above 600 volts, the Flash Protection Boundary shall be determined through engineering analysis. 6.2.4 The specific protective equipment to be worn within the Flash Protection Boundary can be determined by one of the following three methods: (1) Complete a detailed flash hazard analysis under engineering supervision that determines the incident exposure energy of each employee. Appropriate protective clothing can then be selected based on the calculated exposure level. Criteria for completing such an analysis can be obtained from the EHS Department. (2) Determine the hazard level of the task by referring to NFPA 70E Table 130.7 (C) (9), Hazard/Risk Category Classifications (Appendix C of this document). This table also indicates whether voltage-rated gloves and/or voltage-rated tools need to be used. Once the hazard level of the task has been determined, the required PPE can then be ascertained from NFPA 70E Table 130.7 (C) (10), Protective Clothing and PPE Matrix. (Appendix D of this document). (3) Refer to Appendix E of this document to determine the necessary PPE for a given task. This appendix defines the PPE requirements for common electrical tasks based on the information contained in Appendices C and D. 6.2.5 Each work unit shall develop and maintain a listing of the specific PPE requirements for each energized electrical task conducted by their employees using the form found in Appendix F of this document. Page 11 of 30
6.3 Flame-Resistant Apparel & Underlayers PSU Energized Electrical Safety Program 6.3.1 FR apparel shall be visually inspected before each use. FR apparel that is contaminated or damaged shall not be used. Protective items that become contaminated with grease, oil, flammable liquids, or combustible liquids shall not be used. 6.3.2 The garment manufacturer s instructions for care and maintenance of FR apparel shall be followed. 6.3.3 When FR apparel is worn to protect an employee, it shall cover all ignitable clothing and allow for movement and visibility. 6.3.4 FR apparel must cover potentially exposed areas as completely as possible. FR shirt sleeves must be fastened and FR shirts/jackets must be closed at the neck. 6.3.5 Non-melting, flammable garments (i.e. cotton, wool, rayon, silk, or blends of these materials) may be used as underlayers beneath FR apparel. 6.3.6 Meltable fibers such as acetate, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, and spandex shall not be permitted in fabric underlayers next to the skin. (An incidental amount of elastic used on non-melting fabric underwear or socks shall be permitted). 6.3.7 When FR apparel is required, garments worn as outer layers over FR apparel (i.e. jackets or rainwear) must also be made from FR material. 6.3.8 Flash suits must permit easy and rapid removal by the user. 6.4 Rubber Insulating Equipment 6.4.1 Rubber insulating equipment includes protective devices such as gloves, sleeves, blankets, and matting. 6.4.2 Insulating equipment must be inspected for damage before each day s use and immediately following any incident that could have caused damage. 6.4.3 An air test must be performed on rubber insulating gloves before each use. To complete an air test, manually fill the glove with air. Fold over the cuff to seal the air inside the glove. Detect any leaking air by either listening for escaping air or feeling the escaping air by holding the glove near the face. Page 12 of 30
6.4.4 Insulating equipment found to have defects that might affect its insulating properties must be removed from service until testing indicates that it is acceptable for continued use. 6.4.5 Where the insulating capability of protective equipment is subject to damage during use, the insulating material shall be protected by an outer covering of leather or other appropriate material. 6.4.6 Rubber insulating equipment must be tested according to the schedule in Appendix G. 6.4.7 Rubber insulating equipment must be stored in an area protected from light, temperature extremes, excessive humidity, ozone, and other substances and conditions that may cause damage. 6.4.8 No repairs to rubber insulating equipment shall be attempted without the approval of the EHS Department. 7.0 Insulated Tools & Equipment: 7.1 Only insulated tools and equipment shall be used within the Limited Approach Boundary of exposed energized parts. 7.2 Insulated tools shall be rated for the voltages on which they are used. 7.3 Insulated tools shall be designed and constructed for the environment to which they are exposed and the manner in which they are used. 7.4 Fuse or fuse holder handling equipment, insulated for the circuit voltage, shall be used to remove or install a fuse if the fuse terminals are energized. 7.5 Ropes and handlines used near exposed energized parts shall be nonconductive. 7.6 Portable ladders used for electrical work shall have nonconductive side rails. 8.0 Labeling: 8.1 All switchboards, panel boards, industrial panels, motor control centers, and meter socket enclosures shall be labeled using a label similar to the one found in Appendix H. Page 13 of 30
9.0 Alerting Techniques: 9.1 Barricades shall be used in conjunction with safety signs to prevent or limit access to work areas containing live parts. Conductive barricades shall not be used where they might cause an electrical hazard. Barricades shall be placed no closer than the Limited Approach Boundary. 9.2 If signs and barricades do not provide sufficient protection, an attendant will be assigned to warn and protect pedestrians. The primary duty of the attendant shall be to keep unqualified persons out of the work area where an electrical hazard exists. The attendant shall remain in the area as long as there is a potential exposure to electrical hazards. 10.0 Contract Employees: 10.1 PSU shall inform contractors engaged in electrical work of any known hazards applicable to the work being performed. Contractors are required to follow all applicable OSHA regulations and NFPA 70E standards. Page 14 of 30
Appendix A: Energized Electrical Work Permit Part I: To be completed by the requester or supervisor of the job (1) Identify requester: Name: Work Unit: (2) Job location: (3) Description of work to be done: (4) Explain why the circuit cannot be deenergized or the work delayed until the next scheduled outage: (5) Signature of requester: Title: Part II: To be completed by the qualified person(s) completing the work (6) Description of circuit and equipment: (7) Detailed description of procedure to be used in performing the above work: (8) Safe work practices to be used: (Check all that apply) -conductive covers/blankets (Describe) (9) Maximum Voltage that will be exposed: (10) What rating is the upstream protective device? (Amperage): (11) Limited, Restricted and Prohibited Boundaries for shock hazard: Refer to the arc flash label (if present), if not see Appendix B of this program or Table 130.2(c) in the NFPA 70E 2009 standard) Limited boundary = Restricted boundary = Prohibited boundary = (12) Determination of flash protection boundaries:, based on the product of clearing time of 2 cycles (0.033 sec) and the available bolted fault current of 50 KA or any combination not exceeding 100 ka cycles (1667 ampere seconds). (13) Hazard/Risk Category (See Appendix D of this program): Page 15 of 30
(14) PPE required to safely perform the task: (Either see Appendix C and D of this program, Tables 130.7(c)(9) and 130.7(c)(10) in the NFPA 70E 2009 standard, or Appendix E) - Check all that apply. - Circle class of PPE and minimum calorie rating where applicable. class 00, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 (non-melting) -melting) - Calorie rating 4, 8, 25, 40 - Calorie rating 4, 8, 25, 40 - (Class C up to 2,200 Volts / Class G up to - Calorie rating 4, 8, 25, 40 20,000 Volts) - (Class C up to 2,200 Volts / Class G up to 20,000 Volts) - Calorie rating 4, 8, 25, 40 Flash suit- Calorie rating 4, 8, 25, 40 - Calorie rating 4, 8, 25, 40 Dielectric over-boots/shoes Balaclava (sock hood) Hazard/Risk Category 2* only -shield - Calorie rating 4, 8, 25, 40 (15) Method used to restrict access to the work area: (tape, physical barrier) (16) Will a job briefing be completed that covers all of the following items? controls D (Forward to EHS) Return to requester) Note that additional information may be requested by the PSU Electrical Safety Committee. Qualified Person performing work: Date: Qualified Person performing work: Date: Attendant: Date: Qualified Person s Supervisor: Date: Part III: To be completed by members of PSU Electrical Safety Committee Approvals: Safety Officer (UP): Signature Job Title Date Commonwealth Services Representative (Campus): Signature Job Title Date Electrical Engineer (OPP): Signature Job Title Date EHS: Signature Job Title Date Permit Expiration Date: Page 16 of 30
Nominal System Voltage (phase to phase) PSU Energized Electrical Safety Program Appendix B: Approach Boundaries to Live Parts for Shock Protection (All dimensions are distance from live part to employee) Limited Approach Boundary (fixed circuit parts only) Restricted Approach Boundary (includes inadvertent movement adder) Prohibited Approach Boundary Less than 50 V Not Specified Not Specified Not Specified 50 V to 300 V 3 feet, 6 inches Avoid Contact Avoid Contact 301 V to 750 V 3 feet, 6 inches 1 foot 1 inch 751 V to 15 kv 5 feet 2 feet, 2 inches 7 inches Over 15 kv or movable conductor See NFPA 70 E Table 130.2 (C) Limited Approach Boundary: Distance from an exposed live part within which a shock hazard exists. An unqualified person may not cross this boundary unless they are continuously escorted by a qualified person. Restricted Approach Boundary: Distance from an exposed live part within which there is an increased risk of shock (due to electrical arc-over combined with inadvertent movement) for personnel working in close proximity to the live part. This boundary may only be crossed by a qualified person who is safely insulated or guarded from the live parts. Prohibited Approach Boundary: Distance from an exposed live part within which work is considered the same as making contact with the live part. This boundary may only be crossed by a qualified person who has specific training to work on energized parts; has obtained an approved Energized Electrical Work Permit; and uses PPE appropriate for working on energized parts which are rated for the voltage and energy level involved. (Note: A permit is not required for work related to testing, troubleshooting, and voltage measuring). Flash Protection Boundary (not listed in table): Distance from exposed live parts within which a person could receive a second degree burn if an electrical arc flash were to occur. This boundary may only be crossed by a qualified person wearing the appropriate PPE. For systems that are 600 volts or less, the Flash Protection Boundary shall be a minimum of four feet, based on the product of clearing time of 2 cycles (0.033 sec) and the available bolted fault current of 50 KA or any combination not exceeding 100 ka cycles (1667 ampere seconds). (The Flash Protection Boundary for systems under 600 volts that do not meet the above criteria or are above 600 Volts will be determined by an Electrical Engineer). An engineering analysis must be performed to determine the Flash Protection Boundary for systems that are above 600 volts. Page 17 of 30
Appendix C: Hazard/Risk Category Classifications Tasks Performed on Energized Equipment Panelboards Rated 240 V and Below (See Note 1) Perform infrared thermography and other non-contact Hazard/Risk Category Rubber Insulating Gloves Insulated and Insulating Hand Tools 0 N N inspections outside the restricted approach boundary Circuit breaker (CB) or fused switch operation with 0 N N covers on CB or fused switch operation with covers off 0 N N Work on energized parts, including voltage testing 1 Y Y Remove/install CBs or fused switches 1 Y Y Removal of bolted covers (to expose bare, energized electrical conductors and circuit parts) 1 N N Opening hinged covers (to expose bare, energized electrical conductors and circuit parts) 0 N N Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts fed directly by a branch circuit of the panelboard 1 Y Y Panelboards or Switchboards Rated > 240 V and up to 600 V (with molded case or insulated case circuit breakers) (See Note 1) Perform infrared thermography and other non-contact 1 N N inspections outside the restricted approach boundary CB or fused switch operation with covers on 0 N N CB or fused switch operation with covers off 1 Y N Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts, including voltage testing 2 * Y Y Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts of utilization equipment fed directly by a branch circuit of the panelboard or switchboard 2* Y Y Other 600 V Class (277 V through 600 V, nominal) Equipment - Note 2 (except as indicated) Removal of bolted covers (to expose bare, energized electrical conductors and circuit parts) Opening hinged covers (to expose bare, energized electrical conductors and circuit parts) Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts, including voltage testing. 2* N N 1 N N 2* Y Y Application of safety grounds, after voltage testing 2* Y N Additional Information: See NFPA 70E Table 130.7(C)(9) for more tasks and voltages Rubber insulating gloves are gloves rated for the maximum line-to-line voltage upon which work will be done. Insulated and insulating hand tools are tools rated and tested for the maximum line-to-line voltage upon which work will be done, and are manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM F 1505, Standard Specification for Insulated and Insulating Hand Tools. Y = Yes (required) N = No (not required) Notes: (1) Maximum of 25 ka short circuit current available; maximum of 0.03 second (2 cycle) fault clearing time. (2) Maximum of 65 ka short circuit current available; maximum of 0.03 second (2 cycle) fault clearing time. Page 18 of 30
Appendix D: Protective Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Matrix Hazard/Risk Category Protective Clothing and PPE Hazard/Risk Category 0 Protective Clothing, Nonmelting (according to ASTM F 1506-00) or Untreated Natural Fiber (i.e., untreated cotton, wool, rayon, or silk, or blends of these materials with a fabric weight of at least 4.5 oz/yd 2 ) FR Protective Equipment Hazard/Risk Category 1 FR Clothing, Minimum Arc Rating of 4 cal/cm 2 (Note 1) FR Protective Equipment Hazard/Risk Category 2 FR Clothing, Minimum Arc Rating of 8 cal/cm 2 (Note 1) FR Protective Equipment Hazard/Risk Category 2* FR Clothing, Minimum Arc Rating of 8 cal/cm 2 (Note 1) FR Protective Equipment Shirt (long sleeve) and Pants (long) Safety glasses or safety goggles (ear canal inserts) Leather gloves (As needed) (Note 2) Arc-rated long-sleeve shirt and pants (Note 3) or Arc- rated coveralls (Note 4) Arc-rated face shield or arc flash suit hood (Note 7) Arc-rated jacket, parka, or rainwear (As needed) Hard hat Safety glasses or safety goggles (ear canal inserts) Leather gloves (Note 2) Leather work shoes (As needed) Arc-rated long-sleeve shirt and pants (Note 5) or Arc-rated coveralls (Note 6) Arc-rated face shield or arc flash suit hood (Note 7) Arc-rated jacket, parka, or rainwear (As needed) Hard hat Safety glasses or safety goggles (ear canal inserts) Leather gloves (Note 2) Leather work shoes Arc-rated long-sleeve shirt and pants (Note 5) or Arc-rated coverall (Note 6) Arc-rated arc flash suit hood (Note 10) Arc-rated jacket, parka, or rainwear (As needed) Hard hat Safety glasses or safety goggles (ear canal inserts) Leather gloves (Note 2) Leather work shoes Page 19 of 30
Hazard/Risk Category 3 FR Clothing, Minimum Arc Rating of 25 cal/cm 2 (Note 1) FR Protective Equipment Hazard/Risk Category 4 FR Clothing, Minimum Arc Rating of 40 cal/cm 2 (Note 1) FR Protective Equipment Arc-rated long-sleeve shirt and pants (Note 8) or Arc-rated coverall (Note 8) Arc-rated flash suit jacket (Note 8) Arc-rated flash suit pants (Note 8) Arc-rated flash suit hood (Note 8) Arc-rated jacket, parka, or rainwear (As needed) Hard hat with FR hard hat liner Safety glasses or safety goggles (ear canal inserts) Arc-rated gloves (Note 2) Leather work shoes Arc-rated long-sleeve shirt and pants (Note 9) or Arc-rated coverall (Note 9) Arc-rated flash suit jacket (Note 9) Arc-rated flash suit pants (Note 9) Arc-rated flash suit hood (Note 9) Arc-rated jacket, parka, or rainwear (As needed) Hard hat with FR hard hat liner Safety glasses or safety goggles (ear canal inserts) Leather gloves (Note 2) Leather work shoes Notes: 1. See Table 130.7 (C) (11). Arc rating for a garment or system of garments is expressed in cal/cm 2. 2. If rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors are required, additional leather or arc-rated gloves are not required. The combination of rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors satisfies the arc flash protection requirement. 3. The FR shirt and pants used for Hazard/Risk Category 1 shall have a minimum arc rating of 4 cal/cm 2 4. Alternate is to use FR coveralls (minimum arc rating of 4 cal/cm 2 ) instead of FR shirt and FR pants 5. FR shirt and FR pants used for Hazard/Risk Category 2 shall have a minimum arc rating of 8 cal/cm 2 6. Alternate is to use FR coveralls (minimum arc rating of 8 cal/cm 2 ) instead of FR shirt and FR pants. 7. A face shield with a minimum arc rating of 4 cal/cm 2 for Hazard Risk Category 1 or a minimum arc rating of 8 cal/cm 2 for Hazard/Risk Category 2, with wrap-around guarding to protect not only the face, but also the forehead, ears, and neck (or alternatively, a flash suit hood), is required. 8. An alternate is to use a total FR clothing system and hood, which shall have a minimum arc rating of 25 cal/cm 2 for Hazard/Risk Category 3. 9. The total clothing system consisting of FR shirt and pants and/or FR coveralls and/or arc flash coat and pants and hood shall have a minimum arc rating of 40 for Hazard/Risk Category 4. 10. Alternate is to use face shield with a minimum arc rating of 8 cal/cm 2 and a balaclava (sock hood) with a minimum arc rating of 8 cal/cm 2 and which covers the face, head and neck except for the eye and nose areas. Page 20 of 30
Appendix E PPE for Common Electrical Work Tasks at PSU (Not an all inclusive listing of work tasks) (PPE contingent on criteria found in the Notes section of Appendix C) Panelboards or other equipment rated 240 V and below Job Tasks performed on energized equipment Perform infrared thermography and other noncontact inspections outside the restricted approach boundary. (hazard/risk category 0) Circuit breaker or fused switch operation with covers on. (hazard/risk category 0) Circuit breaker or fused switch operation with covers off. (hazard/risk category 0) Protective Requirements Non-melting or untreated natural fiber: Long sleeve shirt Long pants Safety glasses or safety goggles Leather gloves (as needed) Non-melting or untreated natural fiber: Long sleeve shirt Long pants Safety glasses or safety goggles Leather gloves (as needed) Non-melting or untreated natural fiber: Long sleeve shirt Long pants Safety glasses or safety goggles Leather gloves (as needed) Page 21 of 30
Panelboards or other equipment rated 240 V and below Job Tasks performed on energized equipment Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts, including voltage testing and troubleshooting. (hazard/risk category 1) Remove or install circuit breakers or fused switches. (hazard/risk category 1) Protective Requirements FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 4: Long sleeve shirt and long pants (Cal rating of 4) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 4) Face-shield or flash suit hood (Cal rating of 4) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Rubber insulating gloves Leather gloves Leather work shoes (as needed) FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 4: Long sleeve shirt and long pants (Cal rating of 4) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 4) Face-shield or flash suit hood (Cal rating of 4) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Rubber insulating gloves Leather gloves Leather work shoes (as needed) Page 22 of 30
Panelboards or other equipment rated 240 V and below Job Tasks performed on energized equipment Removal of bolted covers (to expose bare, energized electrical conductors and circuit parts). (hazard/risk category 1) Opening hinged covers (to expose bare, energized electrical conductors and circuit parts). (hazard/risk category 0) Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts of utilization equipment fed directly by branch circuit of the panelboard. (hazard/risk category 1) Protective Requirements FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 4: Long sleeve shirt and long pants (Cal rating of 4) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 4) Face-shield or flash suit hood (Cal rating of 4) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Leather gloves Leather work shoes (as needed) Non-melting or untreated natural fiber: Shirt (long sleeve) Pants (long) Safety glasses or safety goggles Leather gloves (as needed) FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 4: Long sleeve shirt and long pants (Cal rating of 4) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 4) Face-shield or flash suit hood (Cal rating of 4) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Rubber insulating gloves Leather gloves Leather work shoes (as needed) Page 23 of 30
Panelboards or Switchboards Rated greater than 240 V and up to 600 Volts (with molded case or insulated case circuit breakers) Job Tasks performed on energized equipment Perform infrared thermography and other noncontact inspections outside the restricted approach boundary. (hazard/risk category 1) Circuit or fused switch operation with covers on. (hazard/risk category 0) Circuit breaker or fused switch operation with covers off. (hazard/risk category 1) Protective Requirements FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 4: Long sleeve shirt and long pants (Cal rating of 4) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 4) Face-shield or flash suit hood (Cal rating of 4) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Leather gloves Leather work shoes (as needed) Non-melting or untreated natural fiber: Shirt (long sleeve) Pants (long) Safety glasses or safety goggles Leather gloves (as needed) FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 4: Long sleeve shirt and long pants (Cal rating of 4) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 4) Face-shield or flash suit hood (Cal rating of 4) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Rubber insulating gloves Leather gloves Leather work shoes (as needed) Page 24 of 30
Panelboards or Switchboards Rated greater than 240 V and up to 600 Volts (with molded case or insulated case circuit breakers) Job Tasks performed on energized equipment Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts, including voltage testing and troubleshooting. (hazard/risk category 2*) Protective Requirements FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 8: Long sleeve shirt AND long pants (Cal rating of 8) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 8) Arc flash suit hood OR Face shield (Cal rating of 8) AND Balaclava (Cal rating of 8) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts of utilization equipment fed directly by a branch circuit of the panelboard or switch. (hazard/risk category 2*) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Rubber insulating gloves Leather gloves Leather work shoes FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 8: Long sleeve shirt AND long pants (Cal rating of 8) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 8) Arc flash suit hood OR Face shield (Cal rating of 8) AND Balaclava (Cal rating of 8) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Rubber insulating gloves Leather gloves Leather work shoes Page 25 of 30
Other 600 V Class (277 V through 600 V, nominal) Equipment Job Tasks performed on energized equipment Protective Requirements Lighting or small power transformers (600 V, maximum) Removal of bolted covers (to expose bare, energized electrical conductors and circuit parts) (hazard/risk category 2*) FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 8: Long sleeve shirt AND long pants (Cal rating of 8) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 8) Arc flash suit hood OR Face shield (Cal rating of 8) AND Balaclava (Cal rating of 8) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Opening hinged covers (to expose bare, energized electrical conductors and circuit parts) (hazard/risk category 1) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Leather gloves Leather work shoes FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 4: Long sleeve shirt and long pants (Cal rating of 4) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 4) Face-shield or flash suit hood (Cal rating of 4) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Leather gloves Leather work shoes (as needed) Page 26 of 30
Other 600 V Class (277 V through 600 V, nominal) Equipment Job Tasks performed on energized equipment Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts, including voltage testing. (hazard/risk category 2*) Protective Requirements FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 8: Long sleeve shirt AND long pants (Cal rating of 8) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 8) Arc flash suit hood OR Face shield (Cal rating of 8) AND Balaclava (Cal rating of 8) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Application of safety grounds, after voltage testing (hazard/risk category 2*) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Rubber Insulating gloves Leather gloves Leather work shoes FR Clothing, minimum arc rating of 8: Long sleeve shirt AND long pants (Cal rating of 8) OR Coveralls (Cal rating of 8) Arc flash suit hood OR Face shield (Cal rating of 8) AND Balaclava (Cal rating of 8) Jacket, parka, or rainwear (as needed based on conditions) Hardhat Safety glasses or goggles Rubber Insulating gloves Leather gloves Leather work shoes Page 27 of 30
Appendix F: Work Unit PPE Requirements for Energized Tasks Description of Task Equipment Voltage Hazard/Risk Category Specific PPE To Be Worn Page 28 of 30
Appendix G: Inspection Schedule for Rubber Insulating Equipment Type of Equipment Rubber insulating line hose Rubber insulating covers Rubber insulating blankets Rubber insulating gloves Rubber insulating sleeves When to Test Upon indication that insulating value is suspect Upon indication that insulating value is suspect Before first issue and every 12 months thereafter (*) Before first issue and every 6 months thereafter (*) Before first issue and every 12 months thereafter (*) (*) If the insulating equipment has been electrically tested but not issued for service, it may not be placed into service unless is has been electrically tested within the previous 12 months. Page 29 of 30
Appendix H: Arc Flash Warning Label (Example) Page 30 of 30