From basic wiring installation to industrial control panel upgrades, an electrician’s everyday duties require frequent exposure to hazardous conditions. While thorough training is necessary to prevent accidents industrial equipments suppliers from occurring on the job, electrical workers must also rely on the clothes on their back to keep them safe from injury. Below, learn the importance of wearing protective gear in the electrical workplace.
What is Arc Flash?:
Arc flash is an electrical explosion that can reach temperatures of 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This amount of intense heat that can cause severe injury through direct exposure. Electrical workers are constantly at risk of arc flash incidents, making it crucial that the proper protective gear is worn to reduce the risk of burns and injury.
NFPA 70E:
The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) is responsible for developing NFPA 70E, a Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. NFPA 70E works to maintain electrical safety in the electrical workplace from the dangers of arc flash by providing suggested safety practices, methods and requirements for training and protective gear. Electrical protective clothing that complies with 70E standards ensures that workers receive the protection needed for certain levels of arc flash hazards.
Flame Resistant Gear:
Due to the increased risk of exposure to severe heat and intense explosions, electricians are required to wear the appropriate flame resistant (FR) clothing on the job. While the FR garment’s levels of arc flash protection are extremely important in reducing the risk of injury, safety features of FR gear also include comfort, moisture management and breathability. Workers must be able to move freely and comfortably in their clothes in order to do their job to the best of their ability. Light-weight, moisture-wicking materials eliminate distractions caused by sweat or discomfort, allowing electricians to focus on the task at hand.
High Visibility Clothing:
Electricians must do their job no matter what the lighting or weather conditions. High Visibility (Hi Vis) protective gear is often required in dark or rainy conditions, when vision might be blurred or weakened. By hankison dryer parts wearing safety clothing that complies with high visibility standards, such as vests or jackets made with a certain amount of fluorescent and reflective fabric, workers can be seen clearly and injury can be avoided.
Additional electrical protective gear includes insulated gloves, durable eyewear, hoods, sleeves and helmets. Electrical workers should be well-trained to understand the appropriate protective gear for specific situations, as well as the proper protocol to follow should an emergency take place.
