Hi everyone, it's my first post on this forum, but it has been very helpful in the past to read through the topics.

I do both arc flash risk assessments as well as design engineering. I am currently designing and specifying a generator / automatic transfer switch installation for a public safety building. It is a single phase, 400A, 240/120VAC service.

What I am wondering is if you think that the specifying engineer should require an arc flash risk assessment as part of the project, or should I make a recommendation to the client that one be performed, or neither?

They have a budget in mind already that only includes the generator, transfer switch, and installation.

Thanks!

In a past life, I performed studies for both existing systems and systems where new equipment / construction was involved – the latter was usually specified by the designer. When I provided design services, the studies would often be part of the design.

As a minimum, it would be prudent to at least recommend the owner have a risk assessment performed and cite the appropriate standard requirements. i.e. NFPA 70E, IEEE 1584, OSHA etc. When the importance is emphasized (safety), perhaps they will consider the study.

When we hire consultant engineers at the university where I work to perform electrical designs for new buildings and major remodels I require they perform the studies. On small projects I do the studies myself.

Here is what I require:

https://www.bsu.edu/-/media/www/departmentalcontent/facilities/pdf/26%200573%20arc%20flash%20hazard%20analysis%20short%20version.pdf

Most of our customers require a study be performed when new work is done, this is of course customers who have already had studies performed for all their facilities.

At a minimum the customer should be made aware they should have one performed, but ultimately it is up to them if they want to spend the money to do so.