Arc Flash Clothing and Fire Resistant Workwear

Arc flash clothing serves as a specialized form of safety clothing designed to shield the wearer from the dangers posed by flash fires, including sudden combustions often associated with hazardous gases and environments.

Individuals employed in environments where flash fires are a potential hazard, should familiarize themselves with the testing, rating, and classification processes involved in selecting the appropriate personal protective equipment. It is also imperative for employers to ensure that their workforce is outfitted with arc flash clothing that is appropriately rated for the specific environmental risks they face.

Arc flash clothing, also referred to as arc-rated (AR) clothing — distinct from fire-resistant (FR) clothing — undergoes rigorous testing to safeguard individuals working in proximity to electrical equipment or areas prone to flash fires and arc flash incidents. While all arc flash workwear is flame resistant, not all Fire Resistant clothing offers protection against arc flash hazards which is important to take into consideration when purchasing workwear for your employees.

Since flash fires can erupt suddenly and without warning, workers may find themselves unable to escape the flames immediately. Arc flash clothing serves to impede the spread of fire and prevent the wearer's clothing from igniting until they can safely reach an area of refuge. While Fire Resistant clothing can mitigate the risk of burns from flames, it may not adequately shield against spontaneous combustions. Arc Rated clothing, on the other hand, is engineered with specialized flame-resistant materials and reinforced stitching patterns to withstand exposure to fire.

Arc flash clothing undergoes comprehensive testing procedures, including exposure to simulated flash fires. ASTM F1959 mandates that a minimum of 20 clothing samples exhibit consistent performance when subjected to heat and fire before approval is granted. During testing, sensors measure the heat penetration through the fabric based on the Stoll Curve to determine the likelihood of second-degree burns. The Energy Break-Open Threshold (EBT), expressed in calories per centimetre squared, is calculated if the fabric develops holes before reaching the 50% probability threshold. This measurement, known as the arc rating, can be represented as either ATPV (Arc Thermal Performance Value) or EBT, with the more conservative rating used for classification.

Following successful testing, arc flash clothing receives ratings based on its performance, aiding managers and individuals in selecting appropriate workwear based on the risk level and potential exposure.

It is crucial for arc flash clothing to be comfortable to wear, allowing unrestricted movement in the workplace. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure continued protection, with regular inspections for damage and adherence to manufacturer guidelines for laundering and disinfection. By understanding the distinction between Fire Resistant and Arc Rated clothing and implementing proper training and maintenance protocols, companies can significantly enhance workplace safety and mitigate the risks associated with flash fires.

For assistance with arc clothing compliance in the workplace, contact our team at sales@totalsource.ie for more information on our Arc Flash Clothing Ranges designed by our partners at ProGARM.