Hazards Identification is the most important piece of information for electrical equipment; without it no proper Job Safety Planning can take place. Shock and arc flash labeling is required for any piece of electrical equipment that may need examination, adjustment, service or maintenance. These labels communicate the Electrical Hazards an electrical worker may be exposed to, including the potential for an arc flash incident. Whether you own a business or simply want to learn about electrical safety & how to implement it on site, we explain everything you need to know in this article.
What Is An Arc Flash Label?
Let’s begin with the fundamentals:
Arc Flash Labels – often referred to as arc flash stickers or electrical hazard labels – are essential safety indicators located on electrical equipment. These are more than just stickers. They are essential warnings that provide employees with vital details regarding the risks of electrical explosions, high voltage, and the particular PPE needed for safety.
Consider them as an initial line of protection.
If you are unable to read or comprehend the label, you cannot make informed decisions regarding safety. And even more crucially – you can’t read a label that isn’t there.
You might be astonished at how many facilities possess labels that are either outdated or completely absent. Obsolete data may cause employees to use improper protective measures or fail to comprehend the risks entirely. When lives are on the line, that’s a gamble not worth making.
Where Should You Expect To See Arc Flash Labels?
Arc Flash Labels aren’t just for show – they’re required to be placed on equipment where there’s a potential electrical hazard. If your facility has undergone an arc flash assessment, you should see clearly marked labels in key areas where workers may interact with energized equipment.
Here’s a quick list of common locations where Arc Flash Labels should be applied:
- Transformer enclosure doors – both line and load side
- Switchgear
- Motor control centers (MCCs)
- Splitter panels
- Field disconnects – optional but recommended for added visibility
If you’re not seeing labels in these places, or the data looks outdated, it’s time to reassess. Up-to-date, accurate Arc Flash Labels are a vital part of keeping your team informed, compliant, and most importantly safe.
How To Read Arc Flash Labels
Let’s walk through the key elements of a standard Arc Flash Label:
1. WARNING Header
At the top of the label, you’ll see “WARNING” in bold, orange text. This signals a moderate risk—but don’t let that fool you. The hazards listed (Shock and Arc Flash) are potentially fatal. The color orange simply reflects that the risk is generally low when panels are closed.
2. Working Distance
This indicates the assumed distance from the worker’s torso to the potential arc source—typically 18 inches for 600V equipment. Incident energy is calculated based on this distance, so remember:
Closer = more energy; further = less.
3. Incident Energy
Measured in calories/cm², this value tells you how much thermal energy could reach the worker during an Arc Flash. Always verify that your PPE’s Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) exceeds the listed incident energy.
4. Arc Flash Boundary
This is the minimum distance at which a worker without PPE could receive a second-degree burn. It helps determine safe barricade placement. When setting up, choose the greater of the Arc Flash or Shock boundaries and add extra clearance.
5. Shock Hazard Voltage
If the panel cover is removed for testing or troubleshooting, this value indicates the voltage level – and guides selection of the correct test equipment and PPE. Gloves and Tools must be rated for this voltage.
6. Limited Approach Boundary
This marks how close an unqualified person can get to exposed energized parts. It’s a reminder that only trained personnel with PPE should cross this point.
7. Restricted Approach Boundary
Beyond this line, the risk of Arc over increases and it can leap to you in switchgear. If crossing this boundary, insulated rubber gloves and additional precautions are mandatory.
8. Glove Class
This indicates the required glove rating based on the system voltage. Using the right class of rubber-insulated gloves is essential for shock protection.
Arc Flash Labels should also include:
- Equipment identification
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Date of the study
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Responsible engineer
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Any relevant notes for future maintenance or system changes
Conclusion
Arc Flash Labels should have a comprehensive information on the potential Arc Flash and Shock hazards present, indicating the energy levels and a description of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the application. They are also referred to as Arc Flash warning labels, Arc Flash stickers or electrical equipment hazard labels.
Arc flash Labels will typically need to be applied directly to the electrical panel or other electrical system that has the potential to generate a hazardous Electric Shock or an electrical explosion. Placing the label in a location that is easily visible will help ensure those entering the area to work on or around that piece of equipment are aware of the risks so they can take the necessary precautions to complete the work safely.
e-WorkSAFE hope that this article gives you a better understanding of Arc Flash Labels and how to read them properly. If you have any questions related to Arc Flash Training or e-WorkSAFE digital solution for electrical safety, feel free to contact us.
e-WorkSAFE – Operational Excellence Through Safety and Efficiency