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Arc flash incidents are among the most dangerous hazards in electrical and industrial environments. To reduce risks, international standards such as EN 61482 define how protective clothing should be tested and certified. One key method is the EN 61482-1-2 Box Test, which provides a practical way to measure how garments perform against arc exposure. At DOMEX SAFETY, we ensure our arc flash coveralls, shirts, and pants meet the highest benchmarks, including this critical test.
The Box Test evaluates the protection of fabrics and garments when exposed to an arc flash in a controlled box-shaped environment. Unlike the open arc test (EN 61482-1-1), which measures performance in terms of cal/cm² (ATPV or ELIM values), the Box Test simulates a confined arc, similar to what could occur in electrical switchgear or enclosed equipment.
The Box Test defines two protection classes:
Class 1 (4 kA arc current): Suitable for lower-level risks.
Class 2 (7 kA arc current): Provides a higher level of protection for more severe arc hazards.
Workers must wear garments certified to the correct class depending on their work environment and risk assessment.
The EN 61482-1-2 Box Test is particularly relevant for industries like utilities, electrical maintenance, and oil & gas, where confined arc flash hazards are common. Garments tested to this standard ensure:
Consistent protection in real-world conditions
Clear classification for easy selection
Compliance with EU regulations for worker safety
At DOMEX SAFETY, our CAT 2 arc flash clothing is designed and tested to meet both EN 61482-1-1 (Open Arc Test) and EN 61482-1-2 (Box Test), giving employers and workers confidence that their PPE performs under a range of arc flash scenarios. With ATPV ≥ 8 cal/cm², our coveralls, shirts, and pants combine comfort, durability, and internationally recognized safety.
The EN 61482-1-2 Box Test provides a reliable measure of arc flash protection, especially in enclosed electrical environments. By choosing DOMEX SAFETY arc flash garments, companies can be certain they are providing workers with clothing that meets the toughest international standards and delivers real protection where it matters most.
