ZHEJIANG DEXIANG SPECIAL FABRIC & CLOTHING CO., LTD.
ZHEJIANG DEXIANG SPECIAL FABRIC & CLOTHING CO., LTD.

EN 61482-1-1 OPEN ARC TEST: UNDERSTANDING ATPV RATINGS

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    Arc flash hazards are a serious concern in industries such as utilities, oil & gas, and electrical maintenance. To ensure workers are protected, international standards like EN 61482-1-1 define how arc flash clothing must be tested. One of the most important results from this testing is the ATPV rating. At DOMEX SAFETY, we specialize in arc flash coveralls, shirts, and pants, all tested to meet strict international standards including ATPV certification.


    WHAT IS THE EN 61482-1-1 OPEN ARC TEST?

    The EN 61482-1-1 test, also called the Open Arc Test, exposes fabric and garments to an open arc under controlled laboratory conditions. Unlike the Box Test (EN 61482-1-2), which simulates a confined arc, the Open Arc Test measures the incident energy the fabric can withstand before causing injury to the wearer.


    WHAT IS ATPV?

    ATPV (Arc Thermal Performance Value) is the key rating obtained from the Open Arc Test.


    • Measured in cal/cm², it represents the maximum incident energy at which there is a 50% probability of a second-degree burn if the garment is exposed to an arc.

    • For example, a garment with an ATPV of 8 cal/cm² qualifies as CAT 2 under NFPA 70E.


    In addition to ATPV, some garments may also be rated with EBT (Energy Breakopen Threshold) or ELIM (Incident Energy Limit), depending on the fabric’s performance.


    WHY ATPV MATTERS

    • Clear protection levels: Employers can match garment ratings to specific workplace hazards.

    • Compliance with global standards: ATPV is recognized in both EN 61482-1-1 and ASTM F1959 testing.

    • Confidence in safety: Workers know their clothing has been tested against realistic arc conditions.


    DOMEX SAFETY AND ATPV GARMENTS

    At DOMEX SAFETY, our CAT 2 arc flash garments (ATPV ≥ 8 cal/cm²) are designed to balance safety, comfort, and durability. Whether it’s coveralls, shirts, or pants, every product is manufactured to meet international standards such as EN 61482-1-1, NFPA 70E, ASTM F1506, and IEC 61482, ensuring reliable protection in high-risk environments.


    Conclusion:

    The EN 61482-1-1 Open Arc Test and the resulting ATPV rating are vital for selecting the right arc flash PPE. By choosing DOMEX SAFETY arc flash clothing, companies can be confident their workforce is protected with garments tested to the highest safety standards worldwide.

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