ARC FLASH PPE MADE SIMPLE: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO NFPA 70E REQUIREMENTS

Arc flash hazards remain one of the most dangerous risks for electrical workers. NFPA 70E defines how to evaluate these hazards and how to select the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This guide simplifies the essentials so safety managers and procurement teams can make confident decisions for 2026 and beyond.

1. What NFPA 70E Defines

NFPA 70E sets the industry standard for electrical safety in the workplace. It outlines:

• How to assess arc flash hazards
  

• Incident energy levels (cal/cm²)

• Required PPE Categories (CAT 1–CAT 4)

• Employer responsibilities for compliance and worker protection

Understanding these fundamentals ensures every worker is equipped with the right flame-resistant and arc-rated clothing.

2. PPE Categories Explained (CAT 1–CAT 4)

NFPA 70E categorizes risk into four levels:

• CAT 1 (4 cal/cm²): Minimum arc-rated shirt + pants

• CAT 2 (8 cal/cm²): FR/AR shirt + pants or coverall

• CAT 3 (25 cal/cm²): Arc flash suit + hood

• CAT 4 (40 cal/cm²+): Multi-layer arc flash suit for maximum protection

Choosing the correct category keeps workers safe from burns, thermal exposure, and arc-blast injuries.

3. Key Features to Look for in Arc Flash PPE

When evaluating PPE, ensure it is:

• Certified to NFPA 70E & ASTM F1506

• Clearly labeled with arc rating (ATPV or EBT)

• Durable under repeated washing and industrial use

• Designed with comfort, mobility, and breathability in mind

• High-quality PPE improves both compliance and worker performance.

4. DOMEX SAFETY Solutions

DOMEX Safety provides a full range of NFPA 70E-compliant PPE, including:

• Arc-rated coveralls, jackets, shirts, pants
  

• FR/IFR fabrics engineered for long-term performance

• Multi-standard garments certified to NFPA 70E, ASTM F1506, ASTM F1959, IEC 61482

Trusted by global leaders such as PetroChina, Sinopec, ADNOC, Kuwait Oil Company, British Petroleum, and SHENGHONG GROUP, we help clients build safer workplaces worldwide.

5. Final Thoughts

NFPA 70E compliance is more than a requirement—it's a commitment to protecting workers. By understanding PPE categories and selecting certified gear, companies can significantly reduce arc flash risks and maintain global safety standards.

Explore DOMEX arc flash solutions to safeguard your team with trusted, tested, and globally compliant PPE.