HomeMy WebLinkAbout13 Arc Flash Hazard Analysisenda Item #
To: Board of Directors
From: Jim Wilson
Date. February 07, 2018
Subject: Review the Districts Needs for an Arc Flash Hazard Analysis
1. WHY THIS MATTER IS BEFORE THE BOARD
This workshop item is to provide the Board with information regarding the need to
perform an arc flash analysis.
2. HISTORY
The District is dedicated to providing a safe work environment for all of its employees.
The analysis is required for outlining safety measures that must be taken, for
employees working on or in close proximity to energized electric systems.
We are overdue in performing an arc flash hazard analysis, and on -site posting of
safe working distances and proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
requirements.
These informational postings are required by NFPA 70E (which is the national
standard for electrical safety in the workplace), Cal OSHA, California Code of
Regulations Title 8, and Federal OSHA Standard 1910.269.
3. NEW INFORMATION
The District main office building, 45 water pump stations, and 4 high voltage
substations are required to be part of the Arc Flash Hazard Analysis.
Staff anticipates that it will take a full time employee approximately one year to gather
the necessary information, and realizes the need to hire one additional journeyman
electrician to undertake gathering of the necessary information.
With the information compiled by District staff, a consultant electric engineering firm
that specializes in performing arc fault hazard analysis can calculate the arc fault
hazard thresholds and specify the NFPA 70E mandated signage to be installed at
each individual location.
The consulting engineering firm will advise the District of what information needs to be
compiled to enable them to perform arc fault hazard analysis. Their calculations will
determine the energy expelled during worse case fault conditions, and the required
PPE (personal protective equipment) for personnel working on or in close proximity of
the electrical equipment. The District will send out an RPF (Request for Proposals) to
hire a consultant to perform the arc fault hazard analysis.
The time line which we are planning to meet is as follows:
- February 7, 2018 - workshop (tonight)
- February send out a request for proposals (RFP)
- February begin electrician hiring process
- March/April receive RFP's and present a recommendation to Board
4. FISCAL IMPACT
The addition of a journeyman electrician will be covered with the FY18 budget. This
position will continue to be budgeted into the future as the amount of electrician work
is increasing with facilities maintenance in the Water and Electric Departments,
5. RECOMMENDATION
Receive report and provide input and direction to staff.
Stephen Hollabaugh Michael D. Holley
Assistant General Manager General Manager