Is it safe to remove an electrical panel after an arc fault flash occurs? | | Always | 9% | | In most cases | 41% | | In some cases | 22% | | Never | 25% | | | | | Question: Is it safe to remove an electrical panel after an arc fault flash occurs? Top Answer (41% of 31 votes): In most cases.
Answer: Never
Explanation: It is never safe to remove an electrical panel after an arc-fault flash. An arc flash indicates a serious fault condition, and the panel may still contain energized, unstable, or damaged components. Touching or removing the panel can expose you to live conductors, melted insulation, or hidden faults that could trigger another arc flash.
Why the answer is “never”:
Service lugs remain energized even if the main breaker is off.
Arc flashes can damage breakers, bus bars, and wiring, making the panel unpredictable.
Loose or burnt conductors can shift when the panel is moved, causing another arc.
Only the utility (SMUD/PG&E) can fully de-energize the service entrance.
A licensed electrician must inspect the damage before anything is removed or touched.
What should happen instead:
Stay clear of the panel.
Do not attempt to reset breakers or remove the cover.
Call a licensed electrician immediately.
The electrician will coordinate with the utility to safely disconnect power before opening or removing the panel.
Summary
After an arc-fault flash, an electrical panel is dangerous and unstable. It should never be removed or opened by anyone other than a licensed electrician with the utility’s involvement. | | EcoWise Electric LLC | Answer: Never
Explanation: Just because an arc flash has occurred does not mean that power is off to the panel. Contact a professional! | | G & H Electrical Services, LLC | Answer: In some cases
Explanation: If you have a large flash, you have a major electrical issue. Behind that panel, a licensed electrician would be the best one to attack this problem. They know the safety protocols to safely remove and service the panel | | Alltypes electric llc | | | ProMatcher | Answer: In most cases
Explanation: You have to make sure power has been disconnected to be able to preplace any electrical equipment | | Roche Electric & Consulting | Answer: In some cases
Explanation: Turn the main breaker off before you try to do any thing inside a electrical panel. This stops all loads inside the panel from drawing current. | | D B Electric | Answer: Never
Explanation: Leave any and all panel work to the professionals | | My Electrician | | | ProMatcher | Answer: Never
Explanation: You should never touch a circuit without checking to see if power is present. | | Seabreeze Electric | Answer: Never
Explanation: Shot power first | | Gacem Electric | Answer: In most cases
Explanation: Depending on what caused an arc flash. | | LED Electrical Services |
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