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Intelligent Power Today Magazine
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Introducing Intelligent Power Today

Welcome to Intelligent Power Today Magazine, our publication that explores and explains the who, what, where, when, why and how of intelligent electrical devices, a collection of complex mechanical devices and sophisticated control systems used in industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities—also known as intelligent buildings.

According to the Institute for Building Efficiency, intelligent buildings use smart technologies to improve system functionality, control operating costs, and to keep building occupants safe, secure, comfortable, and, of...

Buyer's Guide

News & Trends

Counterfeiting Kills

Each year, the counterfeiting of well-known brands and products continues to rise, creating an even more threatening problem. Such well-known counterfeited brands, including consumer safety and critical electrical products, are estimated to be five to seven percent of world trade. The International...

Compatibility Issues with Generator-Backed Power Systems

Line-interactive uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems play a vital role in maintaining seamless operation during power outages. Their integration with backup generators, however, can pose challenges regarding synchronization and power quality. While both UPS systems and generators serve as...

Electrical Safety

Safe Electrical Maintenance Checklist

Reduce the risk of arc flash hazards with CSA Z462

BY ROBERT BURGESS, Lineman’s Testing Laboratories

Safe electrical maintenance practices and on-going personnel training can minimize the likelihood of electrical injuries and fatalities due to electrical shock, electrocution, arc flash and arc blast. At risk are employees who work on or near exposed energized electrical conductors or circuit parts including electrical maintenance personnel, operators, troubleshooters, electricians, linemen, supervisors, site safety personnel or anyone exposed to energized equipment of 50 volts or more. The majority of hospital admissions following electrical accidents are due to arc flash burns, not
electrical shock...

Underestimating Arc Flash Hazards

While most discussions about arc flash involve the calculation methods and associated personal protective equipment (PPE), electricians have a number of ways to protect themselves and their gear, including arc-resistant equipment and remote actuation and racking systems that eliminate—rather than reduce—electrical arc-related dangers while providing quantifiable force and other preventive maintenance data that can help avoid future catastrophes.

Similar to any energy source, an electrical circuit is a ticking bomb. It is simply waiting for the right conditions to blow. A twisted pole, faulty interlock, and enough energy will turn an electrical firecracker into a mortal lightning strike. Moreover, what...

Popular Electrical Safety Articles

IEEE Method Vs. the NFPA 70E Tables

IEEE Method Vs. the NFPA 70E Tables: Evaluating arc flash analysis methods BY REZA TAJALI, Schneider Electric Recent changes in workplace safety regulations have heightened the awareness of hazards associated with electrical arcs. The hazard level must be quantified and workers properly protected...

The Guide to Arc Flash Clothing

A new method to choosing personal protective equipment BY JIM WHITE, Shermco Industries, Inc. Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) in the 2012 edition of NFPA 70E: “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace”, published by the National Fire Protection Association, has always been difficult for...

Infrared and Electrical Safety

Infrared and electrical safety: meeting safety requirements using IR windows and thermal imaging BY COLIN PLASTOW, FLUKE Electronics By installing IR (infrared) windows, panes or ports, technicians using thermal imagers can inspect live electrical equipment without removing protective covers....

Safety Footwear

When it comes to on-the-job safety, footwear serves as the main point of contact between workers and their environment. Because of the key role safety boots play in personal protective equipment (PPE), it is important to consider the various safety, performance, and comfort features as they relate...