Arc Flash Study & Hazard Analysis Services Australia
Megavar performs arc flash studies and hazard analysis across Australia, calculating the arc flash incident energy and boundary at each point in an electrical system so the correct warning labels, approach boundaries and arc-rated PPE can be assigned. Each study is built from a power system model using real fault levels and protection clearing times, and is delivered as a report with labelling, PPE recommendations and practical mitigation. Because Megavar also designs, tests and commissions the protection systems that determine arc flash energy, the team that calculates the hazard can also implement the changes that reduce it.
What is an arc flash study?
What an Arc Flash Study Includes
Megavar delivers the arc flash study end to end, in the following steps:
- Data collection: single line diagrams, equipment data, protection settings and utility fault levels
- Power system modelling of the network
- Short-circuit and fault-level study
- Protection coordination review (arcing time drives incident energy)
- Incident energy and arc flash boundary calculation to IEEE 1584
- Arc-rated PPE category assignment and warning label schedule
- Report with findings, labelling and practical mitigation recommendations
Incident Energy & Arc Flash Boundary
The most effective way to reduce arc flash energy is to clear the fault faster, because incident energy is directly proportional to arcing time. Megavar’s studies identify where the hazard can be lowered, and because Megavar configures and tests protection systems, it can implement those changes rather than only recommending them.
- Optimised protection settings and grading
- Maintenance-mode or reduced-energy protection settings
- Arc-resistant switchgear
- Remote racking and remote operation
- Current-limiting protection devices
When an Arc Flash Study Is Required
An arc flash study is required whenever the hazard at a worksite is unknown or may have changed. Common triggers include:
- New electrical installations and substations
- Modifications that change fault levels or protection settings
- Periodic review, commonly every five years
- Following an arc flash incident
- As part of a WHS electrical safety program
Before energised work is authorised
Standards & Compliance
Arc flash studies in Australia are performed using IEEE 1584 for the incident energy calculation, with arc-rated PPE selected to IEC 61482. They support the duty under WHS legislation to identify and manage electrical risk, and complement safe-working practice such as AS/NZS 4836. NFPA 70E is the widely referenced framework for the overall arc flash safety program.
Why Choose Megavar
- Power systems engineers who model from real protection settings, not generic assumptions
- Design through to energisation: Megavar can implement the protection changes that reduce the hazard, not just recommend them
- Four offices: Hobart, Launceston, Adelaide and Newcastle
- ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 accredited, electrically licensed in every state and territory
- Clear, audit-ready reports with label schedules and PPE categories
Frequently Asked Questions
Arc Flash Study & Hazard Analysis Service Page
What is an arc flash study?
An arc flash study calculates the incident energy and arc flash boundary at each point in an electrical system, so the correct arc-rated PPE, approach boundaries and warning labels can be assigned. It is based on a power system model using the site’s fault levels and protection clearing times, calculated to IEEE 1584.
What is incident energy and the arc flash boundary?
Which standard is used for arc flash studies in Australia?
How often should an arc flash study be reviewed?
What information does Megavar need to perform an arc flash study?
How can arc flash hazards be reduced?
The most effective lever is faster fault clearing, since incident energy is proportional to arcing time. Options include optimised or maintenance-mode protection settings, arc-resistant switchgear, current-limiting devices and remote operation. Megavar can implement the protection changes it recommends.
Does Megavar provide arc flash labels and PPE recommendations?
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