Some organizations may perceive that any financial cost to implement a program is too costly.  But the truth is that it is a small investment in security when looking at the possibility of injuries, death of workers and the cumulative costs of downtime, fines, insurance and legal issues.

AR clothing is not only needed but required of you as an employer to protect workers from an Arc Flash.  However, purchasing clothing is not your only responsibility.  Without conducting an arc flash analysis, there is no way to ensure the AR clothing is appropriate and will keep workers safe.   Until an arc flash analysis is conducted, it's almost impossible to tell what the ideal PPE is for your employees.  In addition, arc flash hazards can often be reduced or in some cases eliminated by making simple changes in fuses or circuit breakers, possibly avoiding the need for heavier PPE .

Training is crucial and sometimes overlooked or postponed due to busy schedules.  However, priority must be made in reserving the time as it is not only required by OSHA, but it's an important part in fulfilling an arc flash analysis or electrical safety program.  Workers need to know how to properly understand the program; read the labels that have been placed; in addition to properly care and wear their PPE .

Recommendations to mitigate an arc flash hazard down to a lower category can be fairly simple and inexpensive.  However, often due to other  priorities at the time organizations fail to implement the recommendations in the report.  Leaving their workers exposed to a higher risk of harm than necessary.

NFPA 70E requires employees to use insulated tools when working inside the Limited Approach Boundary.  Make sure the tools you select are appropriate for the tasks at your location.

A short circuit study and protective device coordination study are the keys to mitigate higher risk hazard categories.  Although these studies are not required for an arc flash analysis or for the creation of the mandated labels it is necessary to lower your risk and cost.

At the forefront of everyone's mind today is arc flash hazards and AR Clothing.  However, we must not forget the risks related to shock.  Statistically, more people go to the hospital with arc flash injures than shock but there are more deaths from electrocution than an arc flash. Therefore, as an organization cultivate shock awareness with communication, policies, training and when ordering PPE .

As an organization you have spent the time and money to create the Electrical Safety Policies.  However, it is only the first step in demonstrating your compliance.  The facilities with the best safety results are those that have zero tolerance for non-compliance.