Layered system baselayers
Worn underneath an APC 2 outer garment as part of a tested layered system. Trapped air between layers boosts overall protection beyond the sum of the individual garment ratings.
TIER 1 OF 4 LIGHTEST PROTECTION LEVEL
ARC 1
Tier
ARC 1
ELIM Range
~4 cal/cm²
Test Method
Box Test + Open Arc
Typical Class
APC 1
Garment Types
Baselayers, polos, T-shirts, Trousers, Coveralls
THE BASICS
What does ARC 1 protect against?
ARC 1 garments pass the IEC 61482-1-2 Box Test and are also tested under the Open Arc Test (IEC 61482-1-1), which assigns a precise cal/cm² ELIM rating. Across the ProGARM ARC 1 range, ELIM ratings typically sit between approximately 4 and 7 cal/cm² [TBC verify with ProGARM].
In ProGARM’s range, ARC 1 appears across baselayers, polos and T-shirts, plus selected trousers and coveralls. These pieces are most often worn underneath an outer Arc Flash garment in a layered system, but can also be worn alone where the risk assessment permits.
Because the Open Arc Test gives a quantitative cal/cm² rating, ARC 1 is a precise measure rather than a category. The exact ELIM value for each product is shown on the SafetyICON™ label.
SUPPORTING STANDARDS
Where ARC 1 is appropriate
Use ARC 1 where your Arc Flash study or risk assessment confirms incident energy at the working distance is at or below the certified rating.
Learn More
Routine low-energy work
Standalone protection for tasks where the Arc Flash risk assessment confirms incident energy at the working distance is within ARC 1's certified rating.
Lightweight layering options
Lightweight ARC 1 garments suit layered systems where heavier outerwear is impractical, provided the risk assessment confirms the protection level is appropriate.
Inspection and observation
Suitable for personnel observing or supervising electrical work, where they remain at safe working distance.
IMPORTANT
When ARC 1 is not enough
ARC 1 is the lightest tier in the ProGARM range. Where the Arc Flash risk assessment indicates higher incident energy at the working distance, the appropriate higher tier should be specified by your employer or competent person.
UPGRADE PATH
Higher exposure
Higher exposure needs ARC 2 Standard outerwear
needs
ARC 2
Standard outerwear
APC 1
APC 2
Elevated exposure
Elevated exposure needs ARC 3 GORE-TEX outerwear
needs
ARC 3
GORE-TEX outerwear
APC 2
Highest exposure
Highest exposure needs ARC 4 Switching Suit
needs
ARC 4
Switching Suit
APC 2
CERTIFIED PRODUCTS