EN 61482 VS. NFPA 70E: KEY DIFFERENCES IN ARC FLASH PROTECTION

When it comes to arc flash protective clothing, two of the most widely recognized standards are EN 61482 (European standard) and NFPA 70E (North American standard). At DOMEX SAFETY, we design and manufacture arc flash coveralls, shirts, and pants that meet both standards, ensuring global compliance and reliable protection for workers in high-risk industries.

WHAT IS EN 61482?

EN 61482 is the European standard for protective clothing against thermal hazards of an electric arc. It includes:

• EN 61482-1-1 (Open Arc Test): Measures the fabric’s Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) or Energy Breakopen Threshold (EBT) in cal/cm².

• EN 61482-1-2 (Box Test): Simulates an arc in a confined box to evaluate protection under real-world conditions.

  
  

WHAT IS NFPA 70E?

NFPA 70E is a U.S. standard for electrical safety in the workplace. It focuses not just on clothing but on the overall arc flash risk assessment and PPE requirements. Key elements include:

• PPE Categories (CAT 1–4): Defines protection levels based on ATPV in cal/cm².

• Workplace Safety Practices: Requires employers to conduct risk assessments, apply safe work practices, and issue compliant PPE.

  
  

KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EN 61482 AND NFPA 70E

1.Testing Methods:

• EN 61482 uses both open arc and box testing, while NFPA 70E relies mainly on the arc rating (ATPV/EBT).

  
  

2.Application Scope:

• EN 61482 applies to garment performance, whereas NFPA 70E covers workplace procedures and PPE selection.

  
  

3.Labeling Requirements:

• EN garments display class (Box Test) or ATPV values, while NFPA 70E garments must show arc rating and CAT category.

4.Geographical Use:

• EN 61482 is used across Europe and many international markets, while NFPA 70E dominates in the U.S. and regions influenced by American standards.

DOMEX SAFETY AND GLOBAL ARC FLASH PROTECTION

At DOMEX SAFETY, our CAT 2 arc flash clothing (≥8 cal/cm² ATPV) is tested to ASTM F1506, NFPA 70E, and EN 61482, making it suitable for multinational companies and cross-border projects. Whether you need arc flash coveralls for oil & gas operations or arc flash shirts and pants for utility work, our products are built to meet global compliance.

CONCLUSION

Both EN 61482 and NFPA 70E play critical roles in protecting workers from arc flash hazards. While they differ in testing methods and applications, both ensure that garments provide proven, reliable protection. By choosing DOMEX SAFETY arc flash coveralls, shirts, and pants, safety managers can meet international requirements and protect workers across industries.