Arc Flash Injures Three at Callaway Energy Center

Three workers were injured by an arc flash while working in the switchyard at the Callaway Energy Center in Missouri on April 2. Ameren Missouri said the accident, which happened outside the nuclear plant’s protected area, did not affect power generation.

Local media reported that the accident occurred around 5 p.m. on Tuesday and caused burns that sent the three workers to the hospital.

In a statement provided to POWER, Ameren said that operations have not been affected by the incident, and the facility continues to operate safely. The cause of the incident is being investigated. The company noted that “Out of respect for the privacy of the workers and their families, we are not providing details of their status.”

Arc flash accidents can release massive amounts of energy and cause serious damage. For a detailed examination of the phenomenon and preventive measures, see “Arc Flash Protection Should Be Job No. 1” in the February 2007 issue of POWER.

Sources: POWER, Ameren Missouri, St. Louis Business Journal

—Gail Reitenbach, PhD, Managing Editor (@POWERmagazine, @GailReit)

This story was first published April 3.