Although arc flashes hazards on direct current (DC) systems are just as real, they are often minimized or even ignored. Not only is it unrealistic to assume it is enough to take into account the incident energy in AC systems when assessing arc flash hazards, this in itself can be hazardous. For example, for a distribution panel that is fed by a battery room with a nominal capacity of 1000 ah, the level of calculated incident energy for the battery terminals would be 18 cal/cm². This high value requires protection with anti-arc coveralls for a standard work distance of 46 cm (18 inches). That’s why assessing arc flashes for DC systems is just as important to ensure worker safety.
