Rank: Forum user 
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Would an HV arc flash which caused no harm but which caused substantial damage to a circuit breaker be considered an explosion and therefore be considered a dangerous occurance under RIDDOR?
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Rank: Forum user 
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I wouldn't want to say if it was an explosion without examining the scene. Checking the regs though, you only need to report the event if it:
(a) results in the stoppage of the plant involved for more than 24 hours; or.
(b)causes a significant risk of death
If neither of these apply then you don't need to report even if something did explode or catch fire.
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Rank: Forum user
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Is there any workable definition of an explosion?
I ask because I’ve had things go bang, and wreck a fume cupboard, and I called it an explosion, but others didn’t like the idea. An explosion to them meant something much more dramatic like a building coming down.
I’d say anything that releases enough energy to cause damage but that leaves some room for discussion apparently.
Graham
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Rank: Forum user
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Hi dengland,
I would say no, as an electrical arc is 'a luminous electrical discharge between two electrodes or other points'. Therefore it is neither a fire nor an explosion, unless of course anything caught fire as a result. Which you say didn't happen.
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Rank: Forum user
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Thanks.
The arc flash blew out a metal dust cap that was in place over the terminals and caused charring to the surrounding area. There is no evidence of fire as there were no combustibles in the area.
I think I'll contact the HSE and ask their advice. I'll let you know the response.
D.
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