Table of contents
Arc flash incidents are not something to take lightly, especially when dealing with the safety of professionals. These incidents can cause severe burns, injuries, and even fatalities if the correct safety measures aren’t correctly taken.
According to a National Fire Protection Association study, they estimate “that between 5 and 10 arc flashes occur in electrical equipment in the United States each day, amounting to roughly 2,700 per year. But other estimates have posited that as many as 30,000 incidents occur per year.” To prevent harm to those working closely with electrical equipment and near potential arc flashes, wearing the correct protective gear is non-negotiable.
In fact, understanding these arc ratings and why they matter is essential to knowing what to choose from the OEL PPE lineup and what protective lab coats, overall kits, and gloves professionals need to keep themselves and others safe on the jobsite.
What Are Arc Ratings?
In the image above, according to OSHA standards, arc flash boundaries can vary depending on the specific work environment.
There is no set standard for how far a person must be away from a potential arc flash hazard. It all depends on the distance because sometimes the arc flash boundary is inside the limited or restricted approach boundary. In some cases, it’s outside of that boundary altogether.
For example, if a piece of equipment has an arc flash rating of 8 cal/cm², workers inside the boundary need to wear PPE rated for at least that much energy. Without it, they’re essentially unprotected. Even if workers don’t think they’ll interact directly with the electrical equipment, the arc flash boundary could be wider to account for potential energy release that may harm the surrounding environment.
Doing this alerts others that they must maintain a wide distance unless they’re properly suited with PPE gear like OEL provides.
Safeguarding Workers
The top priority around electrical equipment is maintaining safety for all professionals working around it. Understanding and maintaining arc flash assessments can help identify the risks involved and correctly determine how to provide personal protection.
The risks found are what factor into implementing safety protocols such as selecting OEL personal protective equipment (PPE). Following these steps while ensuring the equipment follows the regulatory standards and guidelines of NFPA 70E and IEEE 1584 keeps workers safe. OEL protective gear maintains these standards by providing professionals with spec and test data sheets while also being made in the USA.
Arc Ratings Explained Overall
In short, arc ratings measure the amount of thermal energy a material can handle before a person is at risk of harm. Two key terms often define this: Arc Thermal Performance Value ( ATPV ) and Breakopen Threshold Energy ( EBT ).
E-Hazard does a great job of easily defining each of these terms. ATPV is the energy level at which the material will protect the wearer without causing a second-degree burn, while EBT refers to the point where the fabric itself breaks open. Both values are critical to maintaining a safe work environment, but ATPV tends to be the go-to number for evaluating protective clothing.
Think of arc ratings like a shield: higher numbers mean better protection for the user. However, it’s not just about grabbing the highest rating available—it’s about matching the rating to the appropriate job at hand. Overkill can be just as problematic on the worksite as under-protection, significantly if it hinders the person's movement or adds unnecessary weight (causing balance issues or fatigue).
Understanding Arc Flash Hazard Categories and How OEL Makes an Impact
The NFPA has created a chart to help professionals and workplace organizations understand Arc Flash categories. This chart breaks down how professionals should layer up their PPE clothing depending on the requirements to stay safe during electrical jobs.
For example, suppose a professional handles a low-energy panel (Category 1). In that case, they’d need basic protection like an OEL arc-rated shirt and pants/overalls, a hard hat, an OEL safety shield, and leather boots. But if they’re working on high-voltage switchgear (Category 4), they’re suiting up with a full OEL arc flash suit , hood, heavy-duty gloves with glove protectors, and an OEL jacket rated for a minimum of 40 cal/cm². Each category clearly defines what’s required per person, so there’s no guessing about ensuring safety. It’s all about matching the proper protection to the risk level.
Arc Flash PPE Category |
||
Category 1 Minimum arc rating of 4 cal/cm2 |
|
|
Category 2 Minimum arc rating of 8 cal/cm2 |
|
|
Category 3 Minimum arc rating of 25 cal/cm2 |
|
|
Category 4 Minimum arc rating of 40 cal/cm2 |
|
|
Chart: NFPA 70E (2021) Arc-Rated PPE Categorization Levels. Credit NFPA
Each category corresponds to a range of arc ratings, which helps in choosing PPE. Knowing the category for the specific project certifies that professionals stay safe without overcomplicating things.
OEL’s PPE Lineup: A Closer Look
Lab Coats (8 Cal):
OEL’s lab 8 cal/cm² coats provide professionals with the PPE coverage they need to maintain a safe space around potential arc hazards without the unnecessary bulk for lower-risk environments. They’re ideal for everyday electrical troubleshooting jobs, where the potential of an arc flash is minimal but still a risk. These coats provide a lightweight option that’s easy to move in for everyday use around the worksite.
Coverall and Overall Kits (8 Cal):
Coveralls are the go-to for workers handling more hazardous jobsites. OEL’s 8 cal/cm² coverall kits include headgear and gloves, offering users full-body protection for medium-risk projects. These kits provide everything professionals need to face medium-risk arc flash hazards from head to toe.
Overall Kits (8 Cal):
Insulating Gloves:
Class 0
Class 00
Main Factors to Consider When Choosing Arc-Rated OEL PPE
Choosing the right arc-rated personal protective equipment (PPE) is one of the first steps of making sure that professionals are safe when working with electrical systems and high-energy equipment. Arc flashes can cause severe burns and even be fatal, so wearing the appropriate PPE requires careful consideration from the wearer. Here's a breakdown of what to think about when making the choice:
Key Factors to Consider
Arc Flash Protection Level
- Why It Matters: The PPE chosen should meet the specific hazard risk category (HRC) for the electrical environment professionals are working in. Arc flash energy levels vary based on the equipment that’s being worked on, so ensure that the PPE is rated for the correct level of danger.
Pro Tip: Always check the label or specification for the arc flash rating, typically expressed in cal/cm².
Comfort and Fit
- Why It Matters: As professionals, they’re likely going to wear this gear for long stretches of time with minimal breaks in between, so comfort is key. If the PPE doesn’t fit right or is too heavy, users might be more inclined to cut corners, get fatigued faster, make mistakes, or not wear it at all.
Pro Tip: Look for adjustable straps and breathable materials to keep you comfortable without sacrificing protection.
Material Durability
- Why It Matters: Arc-rated materials must be protective and durable enough to withstand wear and tear on the job. Different fabrics and coatings offer varying levels of resistance to heat and flame.
Compliance with Standards
- Why It Matters: Make sure the gear you choose meets national safety standards, like NFPA 70E or ASTM standards. These regulations are to guarantee that PPE is tested and certified for electrical work.
Pro Tip: Stick to recognized brands like OEL that adhere to these standards for peace of mind.
Ease of Movement
- Why It Matters: Restricting movement can lead to greater user fatigue or dangerous situations in which a worker gets stuck. Choose gear that allows movement easily while maintaining complete protection.
Pro Tip: Look for PPE designed with flexible joints or stretch zones that maintain safety but improve mobility.
Why OEL PPE Might Be a Good Choice
Regarding arc-rated PPE, OEL PPE stands out for several reasons. There are pros and cons to every brand, but OEL does a good job at improving their PPE equipment for the user.
Pros
- High Durability: OEL PPE often uses high-quality materials like flame-resistant fabrics, ensuring long-lasting protection even in the most demanding work environments.
- Comfort Features: Many OEL products are designed with comfort in mind, offering lightweight options that are breathable and flexible, making long days on the job easier while also making sure that users can work longer without being uncomfortable.
- Compliance: OEL PPE meets or exceeds key safety standards, giving professionals confidence that they’re getting reliable, tested protection. (OEL also provides test data and spec sheets for their gear.)
- Customizable Options: OEL offers a range of gear, from jackets to pants to gloves, allowing for a tailored solution to your work needs.
Cons
- Price Point: OEL PPE can sometimes come at a premium, as high-quality materials and extensive testing go into their products.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs—whether you're prioritizing comfort, durability, or protection. Always weigh the pros and cons based on your environment and tasks.
Maintaining and Storing Arc-Rated PPE
Investing in PPE is only part of the equation—keeping it in good condition is just as crucial. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain the integrity of the materials, but avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as they can degrade the protective properties.
Storage matters, too. PPE should be kept in a clean, dry space away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Storage solutions like OEL’s face shield storage bag can help protect gear from wear and tear. Also, don’t forget to regularly inspect the PPE equipment—look for signs of damage like rips, burns, or worn-out seams. If something doesn’t look right, it’s time to replace it. Never second-guess your safety.
Wrapping Up
Arc ratings aren’t just numbers—they’re your guide to staying safe on the jobsite and coming home safe. Understanding what they mean and how they apply to your tasks can make all the difference between working safely and putting yourself at risk.
By selecting gear that meets or exceeds the required arc rating, like the PPE options in OEL’s lineup, you can work with confidence. Safety is all about preparation, and knowing your arc ratings is a big step in the right direction. Stay informed, inspect your gear regularly, and always choose protection that fits the job.
FAQs About Arc Ratings
What is an arc flash boundary?
An arc flash boundary is a safe distance from equipment where an arc flash could cause injury. Anyone within this boundary must wear PPE with an arc rating equal to or greater than the potential energy release.
Can arc-rated clothing be repaired if damaged?
Minor repairs, like stitching small tears with arc-rated thread, might be possible, but major damage should never be patched up. Compromised clothing cannot provide reliable protection and must be replaced.
What standards regulate arc-rated PPE?
Key standards include:
NFPA 70E: Defines requirements for electrical safety in the workplace.
ASTM F1506: Covers textile performance for arc-rated clothing.
OSHA 1910.269: Provides electrical power generation, transmission, and distribution regulations.
What’s the difference between arc-rated and flame-resistant (FR) clothing?
All arc-rated clothing is flame-resistant, but not all flame-resistant clothing is arc-rated. Arc-rated gear is specifically tested for arc flash protection, while FR clothing only focuses on resisting ignition and burning.
Are higher arc ratings always better?
Not necessarily. While higher arc ratings offer more protection, using gear rated far above the task's energy level can add unnecessary weight, restrict movement, and lead to fatigue. Match the arc rating to the job’s specific hazards.
How do I know which OEL glove kit is right for my job?
OEL glove kits are categorized by "class," which determines the voltage level they protect against. For example:
Class 00 : Up to 500 volts AC.
Class 0 : Up to 1,000 volts AC.
Choose the appropriate class based on your work's voltage requirements.