When Should ARC Flash Clothing Be Worn?

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health estimates that five to ten arc flash explosions occur in electric equipment daily. Arc flashes can cause serious injuries, death and damage to equipment and facilities.

The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries indicates that arc flashes can ignite or melt clothing, burning skin and tissue. Protective arc flash clothing can help prevent or minimize injuries.

When to Wear Arc Flash Clothing

• Arc flash explosions occur when powerful currents travel, or arc, through the air, resulting in the release of energy. Arc flashes can produce a pressure wave that throws the victim away from the arc. Flashes can also cause thermal burns, and temperatures as high as 36,000 degrees Fahrenheit have been recorded in arc flashes, according to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Arc flash clothing can help limit the damage from these burns.

  Wear personal protective equipment, including arc flash clothing, whenever working on live electrical equipment. Specifically, Professional Power Systems recommends wearing arc flash protection when testing to verify the absence of voltage; during load interruption; during visual inspection to ensure all disconnecting devices are open; and during lockout/tagout procedures performed when shutting down equipment.

  Professional Power Systems also notes that protective gear is the last line of defense against arc flash injuries. If at all possible, work on electrical equipment only after it has been de-energized, grounded and tested.

Calculating Protective Need

• Use the National Fire Protection Agency's guidelines, detailed at HighVoltageInfo.com, to select the right type of arc flash protective clothing for the job you will perform, or check labels on the equipment you will service. Arc flash clothing is rated in calories per centimeter squared, representing the amount of thermal energy the clothing protects against.

  Remember to leave no skin exposed. Ensure trouser legs are connected to boots or completely cover boots; sleeves go down to the hand; and the head, neck and face are protected.

Types of Arc Flash Clothing

• Arc flash clothing for the head, neck and face includes hard hats, hoods, balaclavas, face shields and goggles.

  Protect hands with rubber gloves rated for appropriate voltage protection. For the body, wear flame-resistant work shirts, pants, t-shirts, sweatshirts, jeans or coveralls. Flame-resistant cold weather and rain gear is available for outside jobs or work in unheated spaces. High visibility clothing, including compliant high visibility rain gear, is also available.

  Wear electrical hazard or dielectric footwear when working with live equipment. These shoes and boots provide protection from electrical shock through their insulating properties, which prevent a current from being grounded for a period of time. They are most effective in dry conditions, and their insulating properties deteriorate in wet conditions and with wear.

Where to Purchase

• Many employers provide protective clothing for employees to use. Brands of arc flash protective clothing include Carhartt, Salisbury, Grainger, NASCO, National Safety Apparel, DriFire and Bulwark.

  Purchase protective clothing from specialist retailers, including uniform suppliers and electrical supply stores, or shop online to find a wide selection of styles, colors and prices.