What is arc flash hazard analysis and how is it performed?

Arc flash analysis per IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E determines the incident energy (cal/cm2) released during an electrical fault to specify appropriate PPE. The analysis requires fault current magnitudes, protective device clearing times, and working distances. Higher fault current and longer clearing times increase incident energy. Results establish arc flash boundaries and PPE categories (1-4). Equipment labels must display incident energy, boundaries, and required PPE levels.