The new ISSA guideline for the selection of Personal Protective Equipment when exposed to the thermal effects of an electric fault arc

Abstract

Huge energies being released in electric power equipment, there is a high risk for human injury due to electric fault arcs. Persons working at electric power equipment will have to be protected effectively, particularly, if a direct arc exposure is likely. Additionally to technical and organizational control measures, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may essentially contribute to prevent injuries. According to the developments during the last decade, a totally revised edition of the ISSA guideline for the selection of PPE was elaborated by an international expert group. The guideline is presented, considering mainly the arc hazards, the current state of PPE standardization, PPE test methods as well as risk assessment and PPE selection.