PPE in the electric arc: A case for collaboration

Abstract

PPE in the electric arc has been evolving since the early 1990's. With the introduction of OSHA Safety and Health Standards in the US and arc test methods in ASTM International, the growth of knowledge in PPE and proliferation of PPE for electric arc has grown throughout the world. Misunderstandings and errors in marketing still abound but knowledgeable users, manufacturers and researchers have helped make materials more comfortable, protective and available for many more work situations. OSHA 1910.269 in 1994 and NFPA 70E in 2000, 2004 and 2009 and now CSA Z462 have codified clothing for electric arc. Brazil, Peru, Russia, recently South Africa and New Zealand are codifying laws related to arc flash PPE so the international focus is critical.