Question 1

When are arc flash labels required?

Accepted Answer

NFPA 70E §130.5(H) requires arc flash hazard labels on switchboards, panelboards, industrial control panels, meter socket enclosures, and motor control centers likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized. NEC 110.16 also mandates a generic arc flash warning marking on the same equipment.

Question 2

WARNING or DANGER arc flash label?

Accepted Answer

WARNING (orange ANSI Z535.4 header) for incident energy ≤ 40 cal/cm² AND nominal voltage ≤ 600 V. DANGER (red) for higher incident energy or higher voltage, or when facility policy requires DANGER on all arc flash gear.

Question 3

What information must be on an arc flash label?

Accepted Answer

NFPA 70E §130.5(H) requires at minimum the nominal system voltage, arc flash boundary, and either incident energy with working distance OR PPE category from Table 130.7(C)(15). Most labels also include equipment ID, shock approach boundaries, glove class, and the study date and report number.

Question 4

How often do arc flash labels need to be updated?

Accepted Answer

NFPA 70E requires arc flash labels to be reviewed and updated at least every five years, and any time a modification to the electrical distribution system could change the arc flash hazard.

Arc Flash Labels

WARNING vs DANGER Arc Flash Labels

NFPA 70E §130.5(H) Required Fields

Material and Specifications

Turnaround and Bulk Orders