Arc Flash PPE
This Personal Protective Equipment provides protection after an arc flash incident has occurred and should be viewed as the last line of protection. Selection of the appropriate PPE for the task to be performed is based upon hazard categories found in NFPA 70E – 2004, which should appear on labeled electrical panels and equipment.
The following table is provided as a quick reference. Workers must ensure that they have reviewed all appropriate safety requirements before work begins.
Personal Protective Equipment Requirements for Arc Flash Protection
| Category | Energy Level | PPE Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | ≤2 cal/cm² | Non-melting or untreated natural fiber |
| 1 | 4 cal/cm² | Fire Resistant (FR) shirt and pants |
| 2 | 8 cal/cm² | Fire Resistant shirt and pants, cotton underwear |
| 3 | 25 cal/cm² | Two layers Fire Resistant clothing, cotton underwear |
| 4 | 40 cal/cm² | Fire Resistant shirt and pants, multilayer flash suit, cotton underwear |
Face protection includes face shield and/or safety glasses. Hand protection includes leather over rubber for arc flash protection. Leather work boots above 4 cal/cm².