Arc flash hazards are on the increase due to the high demand for power and electricity. Occupational health experts have found that due to this increase in energy demand, higher system voltages and available fault currents are being utilised, which in turn creates a greater risk for an arc flash event.
When working with electrical equipment, it’s essential to be properly protected from heat and faults that may occur such as an arc flash. An arc flash – also referred to as a ‘flashover’ or ‘electrical arcing’ – occurs when increasing amounts of light and heat is created from an electrical explosion called an arc fault. This fault can cause deep burns that are slow to heal unless the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn when working with electrical systems.
Arc flash risk where there is construction and electric works are plentiful, which is why arc flash clothing PPE will protect you as the last line of defence against injury such as heavy burns due to the thermal hazards.
It is important to wear clothing that meets your workplace risk assessment standards, such as arc flash gloves, visors and balaclavas. Ranges of arc flash clothing run from low level to high level switching suits, depending on the Calorific Value tests, where the ATPV (Arc Thermal Protection Value) can be used to match the values during Arc Flash Risk Assessments. This then determines the type of PPE you need to wear.
Arc clothing is made from flame resistant material such as cotton and nylon, and sometimes synthetic modacrylics, however the cotton and nylon blend of clothing is more lightweight, making it more comfortable to wear whilst being more breathable and providing better insulation.
For the most effective protection from arc flashes, use under base layers to provide extra insulation should it be necessary. The under base layer is the last line of defence in an electrical safety plan but could be essential to your safety if an electrical explosion were to occur that burned through your arc flash outerwear. High visibility, two tone and single colour arc flash outerwear are available, with high visibility clothing being ideal for outdoor or remote work with electrical exposure. Overalls, shirts, trousers and jackets are included, with double layer protection made of advanced fabrics – ideal for welders who are at risk of molten metal spatter.
When there is a higher arc flash risk where the survey warrants PPE of 29cal/cm2 and above, arc flash switching suit kits will protect engineers in those more hazardous environments. Switching suit kits are lightweight and breathable, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
By wearing arc flash clothing from Reece Safety when working with electrical risks, you greatly reduce the risk of burns and shocks, however, to ensure your safety at work, always follow your workplace health and safety and risk assessment guidelines.
Working with electrical equipment is dangerous, so make sure you keep all equipment and electrical units secure when you are leaving the area unattended.
