Energy and electrical

Frequently asked questions

• Is flame-retardant clothing the same as arc protection?

  No. Protection against heat and flame and protection against electric arc rest on different test methods. Where arc risk exists, the product's arc rating must be assessed separately.

• What protective clothing is needed for electrical work?

  It follows the arc energy assessment for the task. Generally a flame-retardant upper and lower garment, insulating gloves with leather over-gloves, a helmet with a face shield and, where relevant, fall protection are planned together.

• How often are insulating gloves tested?

  They are electrically tested at set intervals and the test date is recorded on the glove. A glove past its date or without a record is treated as no protection, however new it looks.

• What is worn under flame-retardant clothing?

  Cotton or a flame-retardant base layer. Synthetic base layers melt during an arc event and stick to the skin, worsening the injury; this is the most common field error.

• Is antistatic performance needed in substations?

  In areas with an explosive atmosphere classification, yes, and usually together with flame retardancy. One fabric must satisfy both at once; two separate garments do not cover it.

• What fall protection is used on pole work?

  A full-body harness, an energy-absorbing lanyard and a verified anchor point together. A positioning belt does not arrest a fall, and using one system in place of the other is a frequent cause of incidents.