Making the Most Out of Your Arc-Flash Training Resources

Electricity is the power that feeds every home and business so that civilized life can remain so. Consumers may not realize, however, that producing and maintaining electricity requires a lot of work from trained personnel. From electrical companies to manufacturing facilities, electricity flows at various voltages that are highly volatile. When any company deals with electricity on a regular basis, arc flash training is required by law in many states. This training keeps everyone safe from any abnormal electrical sparks or arc flashes. Before you work with electrical sources, it's important to make the most out of your training as a manager and employee.

Designate Boundaries

One of the main parts of any training course is learning about boundaries. Electrical boxes are normally located in a specific area of a building. Arc flashes typically have some limits to their reach. Use the information from the training, and pinpoint the boundaries within your facility. Indicate these areas with bright tape or lettering. When everyone knows there's potential for danger in a certain area, they can bypass the section for safety's sake.

Post the Proper Signage

Signage must be clear and concise when it surrounds a potential flash area. Follow the signage instructions offered by the training course. Their guidelines indicate perfect locations and signage details. Signs must be located at eye level and in multiple locations around the volatile area. They should also state the power outputs and other information that's vital to everyday safety. Each facility will have different needs so the training must be geared toward those particular details.

Call Frequent Meetings

Managers and top employees may have taken flash training in the past year, but that information may be lost on the other people who didn't take part in the class. Call frequent meetings with your department so that every detail can be explained. One meeting isn't enough either. Employees will need to be reminded of these safety parameters on a constant basis. These reminders are meant to keep everyone fresh, and they aren't a reflection of the workforce's intelligence. When they hear safety guidelines on a regular basis, they'll be able to implement the rules as basic habit. There's no need to think hard about safety steps at that point.

Keep up With Updates

Safety guidelines aren't set in stone. Experts are constantly researching and altering safety standards as new information comes to light. Ideally, you should have a refresher course for your company each year. Some industries might require even more updates than a yearly type. Pay close attention to every detail because certain areas may have a few alterations. Safety experts will point out any changes so that you can be as updated as possible. One change can mean the difference between a safe workplace and a potential problem.

Discuss Clothing Options

Workplace safety isn't just about spacial recognition around electrical sources. You may need to work within these potential flash areas as part of your daily rounds. Training courses also cover the right clothing to wear during these duties. Certain fire-resistant clothing has ratings for arc-flash environments. Depending on the electrical source, you'll need to wear specific gloves and coveralls to avoid any electrocution situations. Managers and employees should always verify clothing options after the training class. Older items may not have the proper rating, and they might have damage that compromises their functionality.

Practice Emergency Procedures

Explaining emergency procedures isn't as effective as practicing them. Preferably, practice emergency protocols with your employees several times a year. You might schedule a known time for workers, but then surprise them on another date with a different emergency. Practicing the emergency skills surrounding arc-flash problems will only make the workers' reactions faster and more precise when a real issue arises.

Work With an Analysis Team

Receiving training isn't just about sitting in classroom and taking notes. You should invite the experts to your facility at some point. An analysis team can walk around your building with a keen eye on safety. It's possible that you missed a particular issue requiring a resolution. Hire these teams at least once a year to keep everyone updated on safety parameters.
Everyone must be diligent about reporting any unusual concerns surrounding electrical operations. In many cases, a malfunctioning section can turn into a lethal situation without the proper attention. Speak up, and report any problems to the current manager. Your training will guide the steps to take as you maintain safe productivity. Arc-flash training is meant to save lives and create a functional work space as a result.