Body Protection

PPE for the body protects against burn hazards produced by arc flash events. Ordinary clothing can ignite, burn, or even melt at the temperatures reached by an arc flash. Therefore, arc-rated (AR) clothing is necessary when working under the possibility of an arc flash. This clothing is rated by its arc thermal performance value, which is its ability to withstand the energy produced in an arc flash without igniting. This is measured in the same units that rank arc hazards for direct comparison. Non-melting fiber garments may be worn as underlayers with arc-rated clothing in a layered system. Non-AR clothing cannot be used to increase the arc rating of a clothing system. Meltable fibers such as nylon, polyester, and spandex are not permitted in fabric underlayers.

Types of body PPE can include:

• Shirts
• Pants
• Coveralls
• Jackets
• Hoods
• Parkas
• Full-body suits
• Arc-rated rainwear worn in inclement weather

To learn more about Arc Flash Safety visit our OSHA Construction Arc Flash Safety Online Training web page.