Arc flash PPE research update

Abstract

PPE exposed to arc flash is not always designed for arc flash exposures. This paper discusses the critical PPE rated for arc flash exposures for electrical workers and the test methods employed for those ratings. It also further explores other PPE which is frequently exposed to arc flash but which is not arc-rated. The purpose of the paper is to provide some guidelines on proper use and dangers posed by using the improper materials in arc flash exposures until standards have caught up with the state of the art research.Index Terms -NFPA 70E, ASTM, NESC, electrical safety, arc flash training, arc flash, arc blast, PPE, personal protective equipment, IEEE, IEC, ISO, incident energy, ATPV, arc thermal performance value, energy breakopen threshold, EBT, arc flash hood, arc flash suit, arc rated rainwear, hairnets, beardnets, arc rated bras, arc rated underwear, balaclava, sock hood.