English
Selecting the right arc flash PPE isn’t guesswork—it’s a science based on careful risk assessment. Safety managers must match protective clothing to the energy level of the task at hand to ensure compliance, comfort, and real-world protection.
An arc flash risk assessment identifies potential electrical hazards, estimates incident energy levels, and determines the minimum PPE required.
Standards such as NFPA 70E and IEC 61482-1-1 provide methods to calculate this risk, helping employers prevent injury before it happens.
Arc flash PPE is categorized by Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) or Energy Breakopen Threshold (EBT), expressed in cal/cm².
Here’s how risk categories align with energy levels:
Category (CAT) | Minimum ATPV | Typical Tasks |
CAT 1 | 4 cal/cm² | Meter reading, small control work |
CAT 2 | 8 cal/cm² | Switching, breaker operation |
CAT 3 | 25 cal/cm² | High-voltage testing, heavy maintenance |
CAT 4 | 40+ cal/cm² | Major substation or utility work |
Choosing PPE by category ensures the garment can handle the worst-case arc event for that job type.
Protection isn’t just about energy rating. Safety managers should also evaluate:
Garment design — full coverage with secure closures
Fabric type — inherent or treated FR materials
Antistatic compliance — especially for petrochemical or refinery work (EN 1149-5)
Comfort and breathability — promotes consistent PPE use
Every arc-rated garment should display:
The ATPV or EBT value (cal/cm²)
The standard references: EN ISO 11612, EN 1149-5, NFPA 70E, ASTM F1506
Category rating (CAT 1–4) and traceable manufacturing info
If it’s not labeled, it’s not compliant.
At DomexSafety.com, we design arc flash coveralls, shirts, and pants that meet EN ISO 11612, EN 1149-5, and NFPA 70E standards across all risk categories.
From CAT 1 to CAT 4, our garments deliver verified protection, comfort, and durability—so your team is covered for every job hazard.
