When should you use arc-rated personal protective equipment?

An arc-rated hood shall be used when the anticipated incident energy exposure exceeds 12 cal/cm2 . Hand and arm protection shall be worn where there is possible exposure to arc flash burn. Heavy-duty leather gloves or arc- rated gloves shall be worn where required for arc flash protection.

Which table in NFPA 70E indicates whether or not a specific task requires arc flash PPE?

Once the arc-flash category is determined, Table 130.7(C)(15)(c) is referenced to identify all PPE needed for each applicable arc-flash PPE category.

What changes to NFPA 70E PPE?

In the 2018 70E the table was modified to eliminate any clothing or PPE under 1.2 cal/cm2, because it only deals with arc-rated clothing and other PPE. The table was renamed Table 130.5(G) and put into the body of the standard. Its use is “permitted”, meaning it’s an option—it can be used, but is not mandatory.

Can I always use the PPE category tables to determine PPE requirements?

You may use the PPE categories as long as you understand the issues. But you will typically be overdressing your workers. So there is nothing wrong with using an HRC3 or ARC3 or CAT3 Arc-Rated suit for an 8.1 cal/cm² exposure, but it isn’t mandatory.

What are three examples of arc flash rated PPE?

Required Clothing: Arc Rated Flash Suit Jacket and AR pant or AR coverall with minimum arc rating of 25 cal/cm. Required AR Face and Head Protection: Arc Rated Flash Suit Hood with minimum arc rating of 25 cal/cm. Required AR Hand Protection: Rubber insulating gloves & leather protectors or arc rated gloves.

Is NFPA 70E mandatory?

While NFPA 70E training is NOT required by law except for contractors to the Department of Energy [10CFR 851.23(a)(14)], meeting OSHA requirements for electrical safety training IS required by law.

What is the current NFPA 70E?

With the release of the latest edition for 2021, NFPA 70E clearly establishes safety processes that use policies, procedures, and program controls to reduce these risks to an acceptable level. The objective is practical, accomplishable electrical safety that helps ensure employees go home safe at the end of the day.

What is the PPE category that presents the least amount of arc flash risk?

PPE Category 1
PPE Category 1: Minimum Arc Rating 4 cal/cm2 PPE CAT 1 represents the lowest level in which Arc Rated PPE s required. Requiring a single layer of arc-rated PPE, workers need the following clothing: Required Clothing: Long Sleeve Shirt (or Jacket) and Pants or AR Coverall with minimum arc rating of 4 cal/cm.

Which PPE selecting method is preferred?

incident energy method
The incident energy method (IE) is the preferred method. Incident Energy Method: Arc Rated PPE is based on Incident Energy levels of the equipment to be worked on. Labels on equipment may indicate the incident energy level which can then be used to select PPE.

At what voltage is arc flash PPE required?

50 volts
According to NFPA 70E, if you work on live equipment operating at 50 volts or more, then you must perform an arc flash hazard assessment. Even if you always deenergize equipment before working on it, an arc flash hazard assessment should be performed to determine the type of PPE to use when verifying that power is off.