Electric ARC
About the use & the hazards
Use of EN 61482-2 clothing
The protective garments that comply with the EN 61482-2 standard can be used in situations where there is a risk of an electric ARC. This is sometimes also called a ‘flashover’ or an ‘ARC flash’. One of the risks of an electric ARC is that it can develop a very strong radiant heat.
Scope of protection: thermal hazards
This P.P.E. protects against thermal hazards only. It does not protect against electrocution, noise, UV emission, splinters or fragments flying at high speed, hot oil, the consequences of physical and mental shock and any toxic effects that could be associated with an accidental ARC. This clothing is not firefighting clothing either.
Testing Methods in EN 61482-2
The EN 61482-2 standard defines two different tests to asses clothing designed to protect against the thermal effects of an electric ARC:
the Open ARC Method (IEC 61482-1-1)
the Box Test Method (IEC 61482-1-2).
Both tests evaluate the ability of materials and garments to resist heat, flame, and melting from an electric ARC incident, but each test looks at ARC flash protection from a different perspective and provides complementary information.
1. Open ARC test (IEC 61482-1-1)
Objective:
This test measures how much incident energy a fabric or garment can withstand before it would likely cause a second-degree skin burn.
Key results:
ARC ratings are attributed to a product, describing its protective performance when exposed to an electric ARC. The ARC ratings ELIM, ATPV or EBT are numerical values that provide a quantitative rating, helping to match protective clothing with the potential energy level of a known ARC hazard. The higher the value, the better the protection.
ATPV (Arc Thermal Performance Value):
The energy level (in cal/cm²) at which there is a 50% chance of a second-degree burn.EBT50 (Energy Breakopen Threshold):
The energy level (in cal/cm²) at which there is a 50% chance of fabric break-open, meaning the fabric will tear or develop a hole.ELIM (Incident Energy Limit):
A more conservative value, indicating the maximum energy exposure (in cal/cm²) where there is no risk of a second-degree burn. It represents the average of the 3 highest incident energy values without reaching second-degree burns.
| ARC rating values | Definition | Unit | EN 61482-2:2020 Open ARC test |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELIM | Incident Energy Limit | cal/cm² | Obligated |
| ATPV | ARC Thermal Performance Value | cal/cm² | Optional |
| EBT50 | Energy Breakopen Threshold | cal/cm² | Optional |
The symbol explained:
What has changed?
EN 61482-2:2020 vs IEC 61482-2:2018
In 2020, the EN 61482-2 norm was updated. Since this revision, the ELIM value is mandatory when using the open ARC test method and ATPV/EBT values are optional.
In the previous 2018 version, ELIM value was not obligated.
2. ARC in a box test (IEC 61482-1-2)
Objective:
This test simulates a short-circuit ARC that is constrained and directed toward the fabric or garment, representing real-world arc scenarios in enclosed spaces.
Key results:
Two classes of protection can be identified: APC 1 and APC 2, depending on the level of ARC current they can withstand, expressed in kA. The higher the class, the better the protection.
| ARC protection class | Definition | Withstands exposure to ARC |
|---|---|---|
| APC 1 | ARC Protection Class 1 | 4 kA |
| APC 2 | ARC Protection Class 2 | 7 kA |
The symbol explained:
The importance of multi-layering
Correct use and maintenance of EN 61482-2 clothing
Clothing must fully cover the body and be properly fastened.
It should always be worn with other PPE for complete protection.
Garments such as T-shirts, underwear, etc. made of melting fibres (e.g. polyamide, polyester, etc.) must not be used.
If contaminated with grease, oil or flammable materials, the protection level is compromised and the garment should not be used.
Clothing that is torn, has holes, or damaged closures must be replaced. Repairs are only allowed if carried out in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.