Are Power Flashes Dangerous?

An arc flash can cause minor injuries, third degree burns and potential death as well as other injuries including blindness, hearing loss, nerve damage and cardiac arrest. Fatal burns can occur when the victim is several feet from the arc.

What causes Arcflashes?

An arc flash is an explosive release of energy from an electrical arc when the electrical current passes through ionized air. ... It can result from accidental contact with the electrical systems, the buildup of conductive dusts, corrosion, dropped tools, or improper work procedures.

Are electrical arcs dangerous?

Electrical flashover, or arc flash, is one of the most deadly and least understood hazards of electricity and is prevalent in most industries. ... The thermal energy from arc flash, however, can actually be worse and more common at lower voltages and can cause devastating, severe burn injury, and even death.