Electrical and Arc Flash Safety

Some folks want to change the Left Hand Rule to the Right Hand Rule. We would differ. What about the one-hand-rule? The “Left Hand Rule” came about when all disconnect handles were on the right side so the left hand rule kept you out of the line of fire.

Now our training says:
Use the “One-Hand-Rule”
1. Stand out of the line-of-fire
2. Take a deep breath and hold it.
3. Turn your head away.

We get into this debate all the time. I usually prefer the unhinged side.

1. Yes if you are not in FR you MIGHT be a little bit better off on the hinged side if this prevents clothing ignition. (Why in the heck are you still wearing non-FR?)
2. The hinged side of a small disconnect isn’t likely to break bones. A bigger disconnect or a switchgear might.
3. I prefer the side because MOST of the time the arc comes out. It is a good gamble.
4. I prefer the unhinged side because I want to wear the RIGHT PPE and not use the door as a potentially “bone breaking” shield.

Here is an article by a very wise Dave Smith on the One-Hand-Rule. Dave uses some of our training materials for CSA Z462 and NFPA 70E Training