Which ARC flash standards apply to you?

Choosing the right PPE for ARC flash risks starts with understanding the standards.

But with no single rulebook and lots of technical jargon, it can be hard to know what applies to your team.

That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide. We’ll walk you through the three key arc flash standards and break down what they actually mean for your team.

You can then confidently protect your workforce with the right PPE.

WHAT ARE THE ARC FLASH STANDARDS YOU NEED TO KNOW?

To make sure you stay compliant, there are three key standards to be aware of when selecting ARC flash PPE:

• IEC 61482-2: This is the core standard for protective clothing against thermal ARC hazards. It covers everything from garment design to material testing and performance levels.
• BS EN ISO 11611: Focuses on protective clothing used when welding. It tests for exposure to molten metal, radiant heat, and flame spread.
• BS EN ISO 11612: Covers protective clothing that guards against heat and flame hazards. This standard ensures that garments protect workers from radiant heat, convective heat, and molten metal splashes.

Understanding these standards is essential to make sure your staff are properly protected when working in high-risk environments.

IEC 61482-2: THE CORE STANDARD FOR ARC FLASH PPE

IEC 61482-2 is a critical standard for ARC flash PPE in the European Union. This standard outlines how garments should be designed to provide protection against thermal ARC hazards.

For PPE to meet this standard, it must cover these key areas:

• Full body coverage from the neck to the ankle area.
• Garments must overlap when the wearer extends their arms.
• Materials tested for ARC flash protection capabilities.

The standard also includes two testing methods: the Open ARC test and the Box test.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE OPEN ARC TEST AND THE BOX TEST

ARC ratings are used to show how well a fabric or garment protects against ARC flash.

There are two recognised testing methods, each using different setups and measurements. Because of this, the results from one method can’t be compared or converted into the other.

Each garment must be tested using one method or the other, not both.

THE OPEN ARC TEST (IEC 61482-1-1)

The Open ARC test measures the garment’s ARC Thermal Protection Value (ATPV) or its Incident Energy Limit (ELIM), shown in cal/cm².

In the test, the material is struck with an 8 kA circular arc from 30 cm away. The result shows the point at which there’s a 50% chance of a second-degree burn.

The higher the value, the better the protection the material provides!

THE BOX TEST (IEC 61482-1-2)

The Box Test method uses a class rating system to show how well a material protects against ARC flash.

Required safety standard

The test exposes the fabric to a directed 4 kA or 7 kA electric arc inside an enclosed space.

• Class 1 (4kA): Provides a lower level of protection.
• Class 2 (7kA): Offers higher protection and is typically required in high-voltage environments.

HOW BS EN ISO 11611 AND 11612 SUPPORT ARC FLASH PROTECTION

While IEC 61482-2 is the main ARC flash standard, BS EN ISO 11611 and BS EN 11612 are crucial for specific work environments.

These standards are designed to provide flash protection for workers exposed to welding or high-heat conditions:

• BS EN ISO 11611: Crucial for hazards like molten metal splatter and radiant heat. This is key for workers in welding environments.
• BS EN ISO 11612: Protects against heat and flame risks in general industrial applications.

Both standards ensure that your team has the necessary protection against common thermal risks.

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT LEVEL OF ARC FLASH PPE YOU NEED?

To find out the level of protection required for your team, you’ll need to conduct an ARC flash risk assessment.

The assessment helps determine:

• Cal rating: The amount of energy the PPE can absorb before failure.
• Hazard level: The risk of an ARC flash occurring in the environment.
• Testing methods: Ensuring your PPE is tested against the correct standards.

Without conducting an ARC flash study, you won’t know which PPE will keep your team safe.

TIP: An electrical safety expert should conduct this study to assess the risks and determine the best PPE options for your workplace.

WHY ARC FLASH PPE MUST BE PROPERLY CERTIFIED

When it comes to arc flash protective clothing, having the right certification is non-negotiable.

Non-certified PPE doesn’t meet the required safety standards and could put your team at risk.

Does your PPE meet the right standards?

• Ask your supplier for proof: Ensure the PPE is tested to IEC 61482-2, BS EN ISO 11611, or BS EN ISO 11612.
• Check for conformity markings: Certified PPE will always display relevant testing details.
• Understand the performance level: PPE should be rated according to the energy levels identified in your arc flash study.

Non-certified clothing may fail to protect against an ARC flash, leading to serious injury or fatality.

It’s crucial to only purchase certified products from reputable suppliers.

FAQS ABOUT ARC FLASH STANDARDS AND PPE

What is the UK guidance for ARC flash PPE?

In the UK, arc flash protection follows European standards, primarily IEC 61482-2, BS EN ISO 11611, and BS EN ISO 11612. Employers need to make sure their PPE meets these standards based on the results of an ARC flash risk assessment.

What are the ARC flash testing methods?

The primary testing methods for ARC flash PPE are the Open ARC test and the Box test. These tests assess the garment's ability to withstand the thermal energy from an ARC flash, ensuring workers are protected from burns and injuries.

What level of ARC flash protection is required?

The level of protection depends on the ARC flash risk assessment. Based on the results, PPE is selected based on its cal rating and the corresponding hazard level.

NEED HELP CHOOSING ARC FLASH PROTECTIVE CLOTHING?

Still unsure which PPE is right for your team? We’re here to help.

Get in touch with our team today to get the right ARC flash protective clothing based on your ARC flash study results and compliance requirements.