Why Preparation Matters
A thorough pre-study audit reduces study time by 30-40%, improves accuracy, and ensures compliance with NFPA 70E requirements. Incomplete documentation can delay studies by weeks and increase costs significantly.
Before conducting an arc flash hazard analysis, proper facility preparation is essential for accurate results and efficient study execution. This comprehensive checklist covers the five critical areas you need to address before an engineering team arrives on-site.
Complete Facility Audit Checklist
Documentation Review
- Current single-line diagrams available and accurate
- Equipment nameplate data recorded and accessible
- Previous arc flash study reports (if any) on file
- Electrical maintenance records for past 12 months
- List of all electrical equipment rated 50V or higher
- Facility layout drawings showing electrical room locations
Equipment Assessment
- All electrical panels and equipment labeled with unique identifiers
- Equipment ratings clearly visible on nameplates
- Circuit breaker and fuse ratings documented
- Transformer nameplate data accessible
- Utility service entrance specifications available
- Generator and UPS system ratings documented (if applicable)
Safety Compliance
- Current PPE inventory and condition assessment
- Employee training records for electrical safety
- NFPA 70E standard available on-site
- Lockout/tagout procedures documented and posted
- Emergency response plan includes electrical incidents
- Arc flash warning labels present on equipment (if previously studied)
Site Access & Logistics
- Site contact person designated for study coordination
- Access procedures for electrical rooms documented
- Equipment shutdown schedule flexibility identified
- Safety requirements for study team communicated
- Parking and facility access arrangements confirmed
- Vendor coordination plan if utility data needed
Operational Information
- Typical facility operating load profiles documented
- Critical equipment and loads identified
- Planned equipment additions or modifications noted
- System expansion plans for next 3-5 years outlined
- Known electrical system issues or anomalies documented
- Maintenance windows for potential outages identified
Pro Tips for Study Success
- •Schedule the study during low-occupancy periods to minimize disruption
- •Designate a facility representative familiar with the electrical system
- •Allow 2-3 weeks lead time for utility coordination if needed
- •Budget for potential equipment testing or minor maintenance during study
Download Checklist
Get the complete PDF checklist delivered to your inbox
Need Help Getting Started?
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with our arc flash specialists
Book Free Consultation →What Happens After You Submit This Checklist?
Documentation Review
We'll review your facility data to identify any gaps before the on-site visit
Accurate Study Execution
With complete preparation, field work is faster and more accurate
Compliant Results
Receive detailed arc flash labels and documentation meeting NFPA 70E standards