Can lightweight personal protective clothing and Arc Flash PPE ever be as good as the heavy-duty stuff? It’s a reservation that people sometimes raise, so here’s what you need to know when it comes to shielding employees from the dangers of arc flash events.
Think of any high-performance occupation––sport, for example––and you expect to see high-tech, lightweight and breathable clothing. You’ve probably bought the same type of clothing from your favourite brands and know how easy it is to wear and wash.
Lightweight materials are recognised in many sectors as better performing and more comfortable. It can be just the same for your Arc Flash PPE if you buy from the right supplier.
What is an Arc Flash event?
An arc flash event is a specific type of electrical incident in which a sudden discharge of intense heat, light, and pressure can result in severe injury and even death. Generating temperatures four times hotter than the sun in milliseconds, these incidents will almost certainly cause burns and only highly protective clothing can reduce the impact.
This blog explains why lightweight arc flash PPE doesn’t compromise safety in an arc flash event and why it could be the smarter choice for protecting your employees.
Advanced materials are not just for athletes; they also apply in high-risk environments. It’s a common misconception that the bulkier the gear, the better protection it provides. Think about it: who wants to go about their daily electrical or contracting work wearing unnecessarily restrictive clothing? Lightweight materials like high-performance polymers and engineered fabrics are tested to Energy Incident Limit (ELIM) standards , giving peace of mind they’ll protect your employees.
What is ELIM?
ELIM is the new conservative benchmark for testing arc flash products under more stringent conditions (safety standard IEC61482-1-1:2019). ELIM testing results in a rating that shows the energy the garment can withstand. By opting for ELIM-rated arc flash PPE, you can be confident your clothing complies with current industry standards and regulations when it comes to safety.
Advanced lightweight PPE materials are often more durable than bulky alternatives, exceeding the protective capabilities of heavier alternatives and providing superior resistance to chemicals, heat, and mechanical stress.
Lightweight PPE comfort equates directly to safety
So, bulkier doesn’t equate to safer, and that’s good because when a garment is lightweight, it’s comfortable––and PPE that feels effortless to wear is more likely to be worn correctly. Feeling hot and bothered when working is distracting. Lightweight clothing made from advanced materials is comfortable and safe, allowing employees to concentrate on the job at hand.
Let’s run through some of the comfort vs safety benefits of lightweight PPE:
Better mobility and dexterity
Employees can perform tasks efficiently and safely unrestricted by their lightweight PPE and respond quicker to potential risks. Unrestricted movement makes handling tools and materials more precise, reducing the likelihood of mistakes. There’s also less stress on the body, reducing the risk of avoidable injury and potential absence from work.
Better heat management and breathability
Unlike heavy-weight PPE, lightweight alternatives prevent overheating. They’re also breathable and have moisture-wicking properties, keeping workers cooler and more comfortable for longer. Going beyond arc flash protection, lightweight PPE helps prevent heat-related illnesses like heatstroke.
Better compliance and adoption
As well as being more comfortable, lightweight PPE is easier to put on and take off. Removing obstacles to compliance makes it easier for employees (especially new or temporary workers) to comply with safety protocols. When PPE feels natural to wear, safety comes naturally, too, leading to higher compliance rates.
Lightweight PPE wears just as well, if not better
Safety is paramount with lightweight arc flash PPE; the same goes for wear. At ProGARM, our experts designed our durable safety garments to last 70% longer than competitor alternatives, and they’ve been tested through fifty wash cycles.
Our lightweight PPE is durable and needs to be replaced less frequently. So, once you’ve upgraded your employees’ comfort, there’s no need to change it anytime soon. Arc flash events are rarely front of mind, but they don’t need to be if your employees are comfortable, compliant and safe as standard.
Safety, no compromises
Lightweight doesn’t mean less safe. The advanced materials and stringent lightweight arc flash PPE testing make bulky alternatives largely redundant. When purchasing your garments, look for ELIM compliance (not just ATPV or EBT ratings). Here, you can read about ratings and what to consider when choosing your arc flash PPE. While rare, arc flash events can be fatal. So, opting for lightweight, durable and breathable PPE helps your employees make the safest choice without overthinking the guidance.
If you want to understand what lightweight arc flash PPE is suitable for your teams, give our friendly people a call today.
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