How do I select the appropriate Arc Flash PPE according to NFPA 70E or CSA Z462?
According to NFPA 70E Standards for Electrical Safety in the Workplace there are two potential methods for determining arc flash PPE.
- The incident energy analysis method in accordance with table 130.5(G)
- The arc flash PPE category method in accordance with table 130.7(C)(15)
Depending on which method is used the tables in NFPA 70E can help you identify what arc flash PPE is required. Table 130.7(C)(15) has been recreated by Oberon and can be used to assist you in identifying what arc flash PPE you should select when using the arc flash PPE category method.
If you are using the incident energy method to select your arc flash PPE the recreated NFPA 70E Table 130.5(G) listed below can be used as a reference. Please reference NFPA 70E Standards for Electrical Safety in the Workplace directly for any specific questions on the guidelines listed in this FAQ.
Incident energy exposures equal to 1.2 cal/cm2 up to 12 cal/cm2
- Arc-rated clothing with an arc rating equal to or greater than the estimated incident energy level.
- Long-sleeve shirt and pants or coverall or arc flash suit
- Arc-rated face shield and arc-rated balaclava or arc flash suit
- Arc-rated outerwear (e.g. jacket, parka, rainwear, hard hat liner)
- Heavy-duty leather gloves, arc-rated gloves, or rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors
- Hard hat
- Safety Glasses or safety goggles
- Hearing protection
- Leather footwear
Incident energy exposures greater than 12 cal/cm2
- Arc-rated clothing with an arc rating equal to or greater than the estimated incident energy level.
- Long-sleeve shirt and pants or coverall or arc flash suit
- Arc-rated arc flash suit hood
- Arc-rated outerwear (e.g. jacket, parka, rainwear, hard hat liner)
- Arc-rated gloves or rubber insulating gloves and leather protectors
- Hard hat
- Safety Glasses or safety goggles
- Hearing protection
- Leather footwear
