Verifying loads in an energized lighting control panel? NFPA70E

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krist003

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We have been asked to verify loads in a lighting control enclosure/panel. The problem is that with the cover off in order to use the buttons to verify loads, there is a potential for 277/480V contact. What is the protocol for this according to 70E? As I understood it, they would need to be wearing arc flash gear. Would this be considered troubleshooting and be an exception to using arc flash gear?

Thank you for the help. It is much appreciated.
 
Yes it would be considered troubleshooting but that does not mean it is an exception to wearing arc flash gear (Or shock protection).
 
Thank you Zog, your time is much appreciated. I guess I did not word that well. In this scenario, how would proper PPE be determined? I am having a hard time determining if this is category 1 or 2 for PPE. Would it be considered category 1 since we are hitting buttons in the panel with the cover off (similar to flipping breakers with the cover off)? We have to reach deeper inside the panel to get to the buttons as compared to flipping breakers.
 
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Are we able to do and arc flash study on our own or does one have to be certified in that sort of thing? This would have to be done by an engineering arc flash company right? The panels would then be labeled with the appropriate stickers? Or if these panels are new shouldn't they already have arc fault rating stickers on them?
 
krist003 said:
Are we able to do and arc flash study on our own or does one have to be certified in that sort of thing? This would have to be done by an engineering arc flash company right? The panels would then be labeled with the appropriate stickers? Or if these panels are new shouldn't they already have arc fault rating stickers on them?
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You can do the calculations on your own, easier with the right software but it can be done manually. Either way it should be done and the labels put on the panels (Been a requirement for a while now). New panels can't come with the labels because it depends on the chartaristics of your power system, which the panel manufacturer has no way of knowing.
 
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