Arc Flash Labels

Having a label printer available means you can be quickly and conveniently make required electrical shock and arc flash warning labels as required by NEC Section 110.16 and NFPA 70E-2009 130.3(C).

Four types of DuraLabel PRO supplies are available for making arc flash labels. This gives you the flexibility to make arc flash labels that meet your standards and requirements.

1. Preformatted Arc Flash Die-Cut Labels

These are 4" x 6" die-cut labels with either a red "DANGER" header or an orange "WARNING" header. They are available both with and without preprinted formatting lines. These labels are designed for use with the Flash Label database software included with DuraLabel PRO printers.

Labels made using the Flash Label software include all of the information required by the new 2009 NFPA 70E arc flash labeling code.

More information on DuraLabel PRO preformatted arc flash die-cut labels.

2. Arc Flash Die-Cut Labels

Blank die-cut labels with preprinted headers can also be used for making arc flash labels. These labels provide a white body with a pre-printed header. They may be printed by the Flash Label software, as well as generic software such as Microsoft Word or Excel.

More information on DuraLabel PRO die-cut labels with headers.

3. Two-Color Continuous Vinyl

Two-color continuous vinyl provides a continuous vinyl tape with either a red or orange header. The appropriate signal word can be printed in the header, with information printed in the white area below the header.

Two-color continuous vinyl provides greater flexibility as labels can be made as wide as needed, and information arranged on the label in any desired format.

4. Single-Color Continuous Vinyl

Typically orange or red vinyl tapes are used to make single color arc flash labels. The result is an one-color label that can be formatted in whatever way is appropriate for your facility.

Single color vinyl is also used to make larger signs. For example, you can make a 24" x 36" arc flash warning sign by combining two rows of 4" orange vinyl to make the sign header, with four rows of 4" white vinyl. The DuraLabel PRO printers can divide the printing across multiple rows of tape so they can be combined together to make a larger sign.

More information on DuraLabel PRO continuous vinyl.

What Is Arc Flash?

An arc flash occurs when there is an electrical short circuit resulting in a high energy, high temperature explosion, often propelling molten metal and other materials through the air. The explosion can damage a person’s eyesight or hearing, and can cause severe burning or death.

Arc flashes are not limited to specific types of equipment. Any electrical device that uses 50V or more can produce an arc flash. Breakers, MCCs, switchboards, transformers, drive cabinets and any other electrical equipment that presents an arc flash hazard should be outfitted with arc flash warning labels. Mechanics, electricians, cleaning staff or operating personnel—anyone who works close to electrical equipment—can be exposed to an arc flash explosion.

More information on arc flash labeling and arc flash safety.