Arc Flash During Troubleshooting at 600-volt Motor Control Center
Incident Investigation
Arc Flash During Troubleshooting at 600-volt Motor Control Center
February 14, 2023
Electrical
Reference Number:
II-1511042-2023(31971)
Location: Kitimat, BC
Regulated industry sector: Electrical – High voltage electrical system (greater than 750 V)
Incident Overview
An electrician performing voltage tests at a 600-volt motor control center (MCC) was exposed to an arc flash. Voltage tests were performed in a bucket of the MCC using a multi-meter with the test lead incorrectly connected to an amperage port and an under-rated fuse. The multi-meter shorted when connected to the 600-volt source and burned the electrician on their hands and face. The electrician was not wearing the required category 1 arc flash protection gear when the incident occurred.