Workers in the Electricity and Power industry are at risk of exposure to Electric Arc flashes that can occur if there is a short circuit, switching fault, operator error or equipment failure. Electric Arcs can expose workers to very high energy levels and often lead to severe burns and hand / eye injuries.
Wearing the wrong workwear can make injuries worse, so it is important to choose the right protective clothing that provides arc protection in every layer. It is equally important to choose gloves and face protection that are certified to protect against Electric Arcs.
RISK ASSESSMENT
Electric Arc
Molten Metal splashes
Radiant heat
Convective heat
Electric shock
Shock waves
High noise
Optical radiation
Toxic gas
Flame & Heat
Traffic accidents (working outdoor)
In the revised standard EN 61482-2, ELIM is used as the Arc Rating value. As additional information, the ATPV/EBT value is also stated and refers to the Risk Assessment standard NFPA 70E. All workwear that suit for electric power industry should be tested according to EN 61482-2 and marked with both the ELIM and ATPV/EBT values.
RISK EVALUATION
When working as an electrician you need garments certified according to EN 61482-2 / IEC 61482-2 in combination with EN ISO 11612 as there may be a risk of an Electric Arc. Electricians working outdoors may also need High Visibility garments certified to EN ISO 20471.
An Electric Arc accident comprises of many varied risks that will affect the PPE clothing in different ways but with the right solution, we can help to minimise the impact of these risks. A protective clothing that the outer layer reaches PPE 2 and has an Arc Rating (ATPV or EBT value according to NFPA 70E) above 8 cal/cm² is recommended.
Some range safety workwear are designed for work where there is a risk of being exposed to Electric Arc with a very high energy level - for example in some environments, when cutting off power or commissioning electrical systems. Garments should offer protection of 40 cal/cm² (PPE4).
If you need to customize such safety wear for your workers, please contact us freely!
