What is the shelf life of an arc flash suit?

At Oberon, we emphasize that arc flash suits do not have a fixed expiration date. Instead, their service life depends on frequency of use, care, and workplace conditions. To ensure continued safety, we recommend:

  • Pre- and Post-Use Inspections: Workers must check their suits before and after each use for damage, contamination, or signs of wear. Any suit showing compromised protection should be removed from service immediately.
  • Formal Evaluations: Every 5 years at minimum, each suit should undergo a structured review to confirm it remains fit for service. This review is not a lifespan limit, but a best-practice interval for ensuring safety and considering technology upgrades.

⚠️ Important: The actual service life of a suit may be shorter than 5 years if it is heavily used, laundered improperly, or exposed to harsh workplace conditions.

Key Considerations for Suit Longevity

  • Frequency of Use
    • Daily use accelerates wear and may require earlier replacement.
    • Light or occasional use can extend service life.
  • Laundering Care
    • Follow the laundering instructions in the User Guide (page 13).
    • Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or improper drying. Over-washing shortens garment life.
  • Workplace Exposures
    • Contact with chemicals, acids, or flammable contaminants may degrade protective properties.
    • Suits exposed to such hazards should be closely inspected and may need early replacement.
  • Storage Environment
    • Store suits out of direct sunlight in a clean, dry environment (User Guide, page 12).
  • Fabric Condition
    • Oberon suits are made with aramid fibers, which may pill from abrasion.
    • Replace any suit with more than 50% surface area pilled.
  • Component Replacement
    • Plastic components (hood lenses, adapters, etc.): replace within 5 years.
    • Hard hat suspensions: replace annually.

Benefits of the 5-Year Review

Regular evaluations ensure workers benefit from the latest safety advancements, such as:

  • The Oberon Escape Strap for worker rescue.
  • Extended Leg Zippers for faster donning and doffing.

Summary

Arc flash suits are designed for long service life with proper care. Daily inspections keep workers safe on the job, while a formal 5-year review ensures long-term reliability and compliance. Lifespan may be significantly reduced by heavy use, harsh laundering, or damaging exposures. For detailed guidance, see the User Guide (pages 8–13).

Categories: Body Protection Head Protection