Arc Flash Occurs in Energized Temporary Distribution Center

Location: Abbotsford

Regulated industry sector: Electrical - Low voltage electrical system (30V to 1000V) 

Incident overview

An arc flash occurred in an energized distribution centre installed in a shipping container being used to provide temporary power to a building under construction. A mobile crane was used to attempt to remove the container before the underground utility lines had been disconnected, causing a short. The main electrical distribution centre sustained damage, including melting and smoke damage to the bus bars, the main breaker, and the walls of the container.