The most important factor to consider when choosing arc flash protective clothing is its design. The garment should cover the arms and legs and should have sleeves that are rolled up. The torso and arms should be covered by a long sleeve shirt or coveralls. The shirt's sleeve length should be higher than the boundary rating. The outer layer should have a lower arc rating than the incident energy to protect the workers' torso. The pants should be sturdy to allow for comfort during the day.
The most effective arc flash protective clothing the best combination of features. Not only is it comfortable to wear, but it also protects the body from Arc Flash. It also offers adequate protection against the heat, flame, and cold of a hot electrical arc. This type of PPE is available in multiple materials. Typically, four-layer FR outer work wear is the best choice. A FR hat, insulated rubber gloves, and chrome leather gauntlets are all recommended. In addition to a FR hat, the arc flash rated clothing also includes a triple layer FR hood. The hood is made of FR material and is also sewn in. It also has a polycarbonate face shield with a minimum of two panels of appropriate thickness and a gold film for UV protection.
Arc flash protective clothing is generally comprised of four-layer FR outer work wear and electrically insulated footwear. The FR outer work wear is closed off with spats made of FR material. It also includes FR gloves, chrome leather gauntlets, and a triple layer FR hood. Lastly, the arc-resistant outer workwear features a sewn-in polycarbonate face shield with a minimum of two panels of suitable thickness. Ultimately, a polycarbonate face shield is a better option for protection than a traditional cotton FR garment.
Arc-flash protective clothing is essential for workers in the electrical industry, and should be worn by workers on the job. The ATPV (Arc Flash Protection Value) rating of a jacket or pants should be consistent with the other pieces of PPE. The outer garment is important, but the protective base layer is equally as important. A base layer is the first layer of arc-flash protective clothing, and should be worn at all times.
In addition to the outer clothing, arc-flash protective clothing should be designed to fit the worker's unique work environment. The most effective arc-flash protective clothing should have a high ATPV of at least 100. The NFPA 70E-2012 standard contains extensive information on safe work practices, analysis, documentation, and PPE selection principles. The NFPA has four categories of hazardous risks and a single set of standards for each.
While arc-flash temperatures can reach 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit, a flame resistant jacket or dress will self-extinguish and protect the wearer from the intense heat and flame. In addition to the fire resistance of the outer layer, the arc-flash protective clothing should be flame-resistant as well. Its NFPA 70E designation ensures that the clothing is rated to protect workers from the harmful effects of the electric arc.
An ARC-Flash-protective suit is an important part of arc-flash protection equipment. Typical FR suits and full suits are designed to protect against arc-flash injuries. An ARC-Flash suit also contains a full-length FR vest, sleeves, and a hood that is made of triple-layer FR materials. The hood will be made of a thicker polycarbonate face shield.
As the arc-flash-protective clothing is very expensive, the cheapest options are not worth the price. Besides the arc-flash resistant shirts, an ARC-Flash-protective shirt will protect the wearer from harmful arc-flash energy. A good arc-flash-protective shirt will also protect workers' hearing. A hat and earplugs are vital for electrical workers.
The most effective Arc Flash protective clothing will offer protection beyond the requirements of ASTM F1891. For example, an FR raincoat or hood made of an insulating material is designed to meet ANSI 107 high visibility requirements. However, these claims should not be considered factual; they should be evaluated by a third party. It is not necessary to wear a FR jacket or a visor to protect the face and eyes.
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