An arc flash is the heat and light produced from an electric arc supplied with sufficient electrical energy to cause substantial damage, harm, fire, or injury. Electrical arcs experience negative resistance, which causes the electrical resistance to decrease as the arc temperature increases. Therefore, as the arc develops and gets hotter the resistance drops, drawing more and more current (runaway) until some part of the system melts, trips, or evaporates, providing enough distance to break the circuit and extinguish the arc. You can protect yourself from the dangers of an arc flash with some of the safety wear listed in this guide.
Proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
Many companies offer arc flash personal protective equipment. The materials are tested for their arc rating, which is the maximum incident energy resistance demonstrated by a material prior to breaking open (a hole in the material) or necessary to pass through and have a 50% probability of causing a second- or third-degree burn.
Arc Flash Jackets and Overalls
Wearing apparel with flame-resistant properties that won't wash or wear off increases the chance of surviving an electrical arc flash accident. Arc flash jackets and coveralls are designed not to melt and, in fact, the fabric becomes thicker and swells when exposed to a heat source to form a barrier between the heat and a person's skin.
Arc Flash Hoods
These face shields are used for protection against an arc flash. The requirements for arc flash protection are provided by the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) 70E standard. Face shields are included in this standard and must provide protection based on Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) which is measured in calories per square centimeter (cal./cm2). The calorie rating must be determined first to be able to select the shield that will provide the best protection. To determine the level of protection needed for your job or task, refer to NFPA 70E-2012 Article 130, tables 130.4 (C)(a) or (b), 130.7 (C)(15)(a) and 130.7 (C) (16), or Annex D.
Rubber Insulating Gloves
Likely the most important article of personal protection clothing for electrical workers, electrical safety gloves must incorporate high dielectric and physical strength, along with flexibility and durability. To ensure safety and performance, the gloves need to meet and/or exceed the requirements of current American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D120 specifications. Gloves should also be electrically tested following ASTM D120/IEC903 specifications.
Insulated Electrician's Tool Kit
Each kit is individually tested and certified by the manufacturer for specific working conditions. Generally, the maximum rated voltage for insulated tools is VAC and VDC: 1000V AC and 1500V DC. When buying insulated hand tools, look for compliance with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The ASTM and IEC do not test the tools for compliance, as manufacturers do their own testing, but these organizations set the performance requirements for the insulation.
Whether you need arc flash clothing and accessories or insulated tool sets, Zoro has the PPE to keep you safe in electrically charged environments.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.