Ground fault and arc fault are sometimes used interchangeably but they are actually two separate things. Ground fault is a type of short circuit sometimes known as “short to ground.” It happens when current going out on ungrounded phase (energized “hot” current) accidentally makes contact with a ground path. Electricity always wants to find a path to ground. Sometimes this unintentional path to ground is a person’s body. Ground fault causes electric shock that could be severe or fatal to people…

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Here is a protection type reference chart guide. Find protection type, breaker type, and their description. Check what you need for your job and/or project.

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Who doesn’t get a little frustrated when the power goes out every now and then? Especially when you’re in the middle of something. Circuit breakers seem to fail at the least opportune time. But why do circuit breakers fail anyway? First, let’s get back to the basics. We know that circuit breakers trip when there’s …

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Ground fault is simply a short in the system. It occurs when current going out on ungrounded phase comes back on grounded path. To avoid shock hazards, current going out any one phase must come back on another phase or neutral.   Ground Fault Protection A ground fault protection device is required to protect from …

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One of the most important aspects of electrical safety that does not get enough attention is labeling. Labeling is ultimately what allows employees to avoid danger and understand exactly what it is that they are using. It is also what provides people with important electrical information. Imagine the chaos that would ensue if we always …

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According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) are a leading cause of pain and suffering in the United States.  These injuries are often the result of poor material handling techniques and can prove costly for employers in any industry. Those in the electrical trade often find themselves pulling, pushing, …

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While electrical contracting work is rewarding, it does come with its fair share of risks.  To reduce these risks, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established standards to address electrical hazards for contractors.  Unfortunately, these electrical safety standards are neglected far too often, as can be seen by looking at the top ten most …

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Low and medium voltage switchboards play an important role in the safety and efficiency of an electrical distribution system.  Many industrial, commercial, and residential buildings rely on switchboards to effectively distribute electrical power to appliances or electrical devices that are then used by consumers.  Without proper construction and maintenance of the switchboard, failures in the …

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Electrical distribution systems can be complex, and no system is perfect. Accidentally damaging equipment, a tough environment, equipment deterioration, and many other factors can contribute to the occurrence of overcurrents. To avoid costly damage and exposure to serious safety hazards, it is important that proper overcurrent protection devices (OCPD) are installed.  Selecting the appropriate OCPD …

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With improved engineering and design of electrical systems, the amount of hazards that electricians face has been significantly reduced.  However, electrical work still poses certain risks that make the job particularly dangerous.  It is estimated that 600 people die every year from electrical causes—most of them involving low-voltage power (600 volts or less).  Following these safety …

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