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Selecting the right arc flash protective clothing is essential for both safety and compliance. Each PPE Category (CAT 1–4) corresponds to the amount of incident energy (cal/cm²) a worker may face during an arc flash.
The right CAT level depends on the job task and industry hazard level—from light maintenance to high-voltage operations.
Arc flash PPE is rated by Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) or Energy Breakopen Threshold (EBT)—the higher the number, the greater the protection.
Category | ATPV / EBT Range | Typical Applications |
CAT 1 | 4–8 cal/cm² | Low-energy work such as lighting maintenance, control panel checks, or testing low-voltage circuits. Common in commercial buildings and HVAC service. |
CAT 2 | 8–25 cal/cm² | Medium-risk electrical work: switching, breaker operation, or motor control maintenance. Typical in manufacturing, utilities, and oil & gas plant maintenance. |
CAT 3 | 25–40 cal/cm² | High-risk environments such as heavy equipment servicing, high-voltage cabinet work, and industrial power distribution. Common in power generation, refineries, and steel plants. |
CAT 4 | 40+ cal/cm² | Extreme hazard situations—like substation work, live-line maintenance, and arc testing labs—where maximum protection is required. |
The choice depends on your risk assessment and task energy rating:
CAT 1–2: Ideal for electricians, maintenance staff, and technicians working with circuits below 600V. Choose FR shirts, pants, or lightweight coveralls with ATPV ≥ 8 cal/cm².
CAT 3–4: For high-voltage, substation, or heavy industrial work. Use multi-layer arc flash suits or coveralls with ATPV ≥ 25 cal/cm² and additional insulating PPE.
When unsure, always select the next higher category to guarantee adequate protection.
Certification: Look for EN ISO 11612, EN 1149-5, ASTM F1506, and NFPA 70E compliance.
Fabric type: Inherent FR or high-quality treated cotton that withstands 50+ industrial washes.
Comfort and design: Breathable materials and ergonomic fits reduce heat stress and increase compliance.
At DomexSafety.com, we design arc flash shirts, pants, and coveralls for all hazard levels—
from CAT 1 low-voltage maintenance to CAT 4 high-voltage power operations.
Every garment meets EN ISO 11612, EN 1149-5, and NFPA 70E standards—delivering certified, breathable, and durable protection across utilities, oil & gas, manufacturing, and construction industries.
