When it comes to arc flashes and electrical fires, there’s often no time to react. An arc flash happens when an electric current travels through the air between a conductor and the ground, or between two conductors, resulting in an explosion of light, heat, sound and force. This can happen in a fraction of a second and the arc can reach temperatures exceeding 19,000°C.
In Australia, more than 2,000 people a year are admitted to burn centres with severe arc fault burns. In the unfortunate event that one occurs, protective fire-retardant clothing is your first line of defence against burns, and may make the difference between life and death.
The heat energy of an electric arc is measured in calories. An Arc Thermal Protection Value Rating (ATPV Rating) or Arc Rating is based on the amount of energy (measured in cal/cm2) that a material can absorb if exposed to an electric arc before there is a 50% probability of a second degree skin burn injury. So, the higher the Arc rating, the greater protection your clothing will give you.
KingGee’s recently released Lenzing range sets a new standard in ultra-lightweight, fireretardant protective clothing. Woven with a special Lenzing fabric, it allows breathability, movement and moulds to your body, while providing PPE2 rate protection.
Peter Allery, National Sales Manager of the Workwear Group, notes, “While the requirement for a PPE2 rating is an 8 CAL Arc rating, this line has surpassed this number and boasts a 10 CAL rating, offering that extra bit of protection when you need it most.”
With the sudden violent force an arc flash can have, you can’t afford to cut corners on safety. An investment in comfortable, fire-retardant clothing that can take the heat is essential to keep your crew safe and may even save a life.