In 2007, General Electric surveyed industry professionals working in facilities related to the oil and gas industry, pulp and paper industry, and power generation.

Survey questions were directed at:

• Whether or not workers in these industries knew the current hazard risk categories in their facilities

• Whether or not they had conducted a hazard risk analysis in their facility

• What actions had been taken as a result of the risk analysis

• What were the expected benefits from reducing the hazard risk category of equipment

• What solutions were in place to reduce the risk of arc flash injury

The GE survey revealed significant ignorance of arc flash risks and protections.

For example, 36% of end users and 38% of specifiers did not know the HRC of their facility or their electrical system design.

Analysis was often absent. 50% of end users said no arc flash hazard study had been performed at their site.

A lack of action was also often apparent. 35% of end users said no changes were made despite conducting an analysis.