How an Arc Flash Survivor is Using His Second Chance to Protect Others

Third-degree burns. A traumatic brain injury. Lasting psychological effects. This is what Peter Andrews works every day to prevent from happening to his Cintas customers, because he knows how devastating an arc flash, a powerful electrical explosion that can reach extreme temperatures, can be.

“I don't ever want anyone to go through that,” said Andrews.

In 2012, Andrews was an electrical engineer. While opening an electrical panel, he said a spring broke loose and shorted the panel, causing an arc flash that sent a 35,000-degree explosion into his face and up his arms, causing second- and third-degree burns and a concussion. Doctors placed him in a medically induced coma. His physical recovery took eight months. He is still recovering psychologically.

“When I went back to work, I realized it was really difficult for me to be able to get back in front of that panel. I would start to shake, and I realized it was just not the role for me anymore,” said Andrews.

After working for startups for several years, Andrews was looking for something more stable to provide for his family. About a year ago, he joined Cintas as a Sales Representative, selling fire-resistant clothing so other companies can protect their employees from what happened to him.

“If I had been wearing fire-resistant clothing, I would not have had much of any of these burns,” said Andrews.

He shares his story with customers to stress the importance of wearing proper protective gear on the job.

“I have that passion to be able to go out there and protect people and educate people,” said Andrews.

He has turned that passion into purpose. What began as a life-changing injury now drives Andrews to make a difference, one conversation and one safer workplace at a time, all while building a career he loves.

“After experiencing what I have been through, I'm just so happy to be where I am today,” said Andrews.