At what level of incident energy can a second-degree burn occur from exposure to an electric arc flash?

A second-degree burn can occur from exposure to an electric arc flash at an incident energy level of 1.2 cal/cm². This level signifies the threshold at which the skin can begin to suffer thermal damage due to the intense heat produced by an arc flash.

At 1.2 cal/cm², the energy is sufficient to cause blistering and pain, characteristic of a second-degree burn, affecting the outer layer as well as deeper layers of skin. Understanding this threshold is crucial for safety protocols in environments where arc flash hazards are present, as it highlights the critical need for appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety measures to mitigate the risk of injury.

Higher energy levels increase the severity of burns, moving toward third-degree injuries, but the focus here is on the specific threshold for second-degree burns, making 1.2 cal/cm² the significant value for this condition. Recognizing this level helps in training personnel to evaluate risks and implement effective safety strategies.