Beyond The Labels: How To Interpret Arc-Flash Study Results

When your facility completes an arc flash study, the label on electrical equipment is just the surface—it warns of hazards and guides PPE use, but it doesn’t tell the full story. Behind it lies detailed engineering data that can enhance safety, reliability, and compliance. At RJS Engineering, we help organizations go beyond the labels, translating complex arc flash study results into clear, actionable insights that strengthen electrical safety programs.

1. Understanding What the Label Tells You

An arc flash label provides key details from your study—incident energy, working distance, arc flash boundary, and required PPE level. These numbers guide safe work practices and compliance but represent only a snapshot of your system at the time of the study. Any changes to equipment, loads, or breaker settings can alter the results, so keeping data current is essential for accuracy and safety.

2. Looking Deeper into the Study Results

An arc flash report offers more than label data—it reveals how your system truly behaves. Key factors include protective device coordination, short-circuit levels, system configuration, and design assumptions. Each affects fault energy and hazard severity. At RJS Engineering, we go beyond the numbers—reviewing your study for accuracy, identifying high-risk areas, and providing practical solutions to reduce arc flash exposure.

3. How to Read and Apply the Numbers

Interpreting your arc flash study means turning data into action. High incident energy signals elevated risk—optimize device settings or coordination to reduce it. Short working distances or slow clearing times increase exposure and should be reviewed. If your system changes often, update studies regularly. At RJS Engineering, we help clients use these numbers not just for compliance, but to proactively reduce hazards and improve maintenance planning.

4. Turning Results into Action

An arc flash study improves safety only when applied effectively. Keep electrical drawings up to date, train staff on label meanings, and focus on high-risk equipment first. Review studies after any major system change—RJS Engineering recommends updates every 3–5 years or after modifications. Integrate results into maintenance and safety programs to maintain compliance with NFPA 70E and IEEE 1584. Our team provides ongoing consulting to help facilities stay current and safe.

5. Why Understanding Your Study Matters

Treating an arc flash study as a one-time task can lead to serious risks—incorrect PPE, unsafe maintenance, outdated hazard zones, and non-compliance. By understanding and applying your study results, you strengthen safety and prevent costly mistakes. At RJS Engineering, we go beyond compliance, helping facilities turn complex data into practical actions that enhance system design, reduce risk, and protect workers.

The Bottom Line

Arc flash labels are just the starting point—real safety comes from understanding the data behind them. At RJS Engineering, we turn complex arc flash results into clear, actionable insights through expert risk assessments, electrical design, and compliance consulting. Go beyond the labels—partner with us to build a safer, smarter, and more reliable facility.

Ilona is a freelance writer making blogs for different businesses.