Introduction

Covol was approached by a leading global mining organisation with a diverse portfolio of operations, spanning commodities such as platinum group metals, copper, diamonds, iron ore, and thermal coal. With a strong focus on sustainable development, they prioritise innovation and environmental stewardship in their mining processes. Headquartered in the UK, the organisation operates across multiple continents, including Africa, the Americas, and Australia, with a commitment to creating value through responsible resource extraction and community engagement. Their operations are underpinned by cutting-edge technologies and a focus on safety, efficiency, and minimising environmental impact.

The requirement

Following the successful completion of an Arc Flash Assessment at one of the client’s key operational sites, Covol Engineering Ltd (Covol) was invited to provide a proposal for conducting Fault Level and Arc Flash Assessments at two additional facilities: a critical processing site and a research and development centre.

The request was made through correspondence between a senior engineer from the client organisation and Covol's Managing Director. The client sought to ensure compliance with industry safety standards and enhance the electrical safety framework across its facilities.

The proposed studies were designed to align with the NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace and the IEEE1584 Guide for Performing Arc Flash Hazard Calculations, ensuring best practices were followed.

Covol was pleased to deliver a comprehensive proposal for review, demonstrating its continued commitment to supporting the client's operational safety and compliance goals.

Our solution

As part of our engagement, we delivered a suite of services and outputs designed to meet the client’s specific needs and ensure compliance with relevant safety standards. These included:

• A Comprehensive Assessment Report: Known for its robustness and credibility, providing detailed evaluations of the electrical system.

• Advanced Software Utilisation: Deployment of SKM Power Tools Software, an industry-leading tool for conducting precise fault level and arc flash assessments.

• Arc Flash and Fault Current Analysis: In-depth evaluations to identify potential hazards and ensure accurate calculations.

• Single Line Diagrams: Clear and concise visual representations of the electrical distribution system.

• Self-Adhesive Warning Labels: Durable labels designed to highlight potential arc flash hazards in line with safety protocols.

• PPE Recommendations: Guidance on procuring the correct category of PPE to ensure workforce safety.

• On-Site Surveys: Comprehensive data collection conducted by our expert engineers to gather all pertinent technical information required to complete the assessments.

These deliverables not only ensured compliance with safety standards but also provided the client with actionable insights to improve the safety and efficiency of their facilities.

The outcome

As a result of the assessments and deliverables provided, the client achieved:

• Enhanced Safety Compliance: alignment with NFPA 70E and IEEE1584 standards, ensuring the safety of personnel and operations across the facilities.

• Actionable Insights: Clear identification of potential arc flash hazards through robust analysis and reporting.

• Improved Operational Efficiency: Streamlined processes with the provision of accurate single line diagrams and clear hazard labelling for critical electrical equipment.

• Tailored PPE Recommendations: Procurement guidance ensured employees are able to be equipped with the appropriate protective gear, reducing the risk of injury.

• Future-Proofed Systems: A deeper understanding of fault levels and arc flash risks supported better-informed decisions for ongoing maintenance, operation and future upgrades.

The client’s facility is now positioned to operate more safely and efficiently, with a reliable framework for managing electrical safety risks.