3 Steps To Safely Test The Arc Flash Suit

When working with electricity, one can never be too safe. Knowing all possible risks and taking the right steps can be the difference between safety and danger.

Arc flashes are common occurrences when working with large, energized equipment. Arc flashes can reach temperatures higher than the sun's surface, so they're pretty serious. They can cause severe burns, hearing loss, and vision problems.

Using an arc flash suit is a critical protective measure to avoid the harm that arc flashes present. However, are you sure your suit is up to the challenge? Regular testing sounds absurd, but is imperative to ensure their continued effectiveness.

This article is meant to show you three basic steps for testing your arc flash suit safely and thoroughly. This will help you maintain the highest safety standards in your work environment.

First, let's start with a very basic understanding of arc flash hazards.

Understanding arc flash hazards

As mentioned, arc flash hazards are a big worry for people who work with electrical systems. Knowing the risks is the first step in preventing accidents.

Simply put, arc flashes are the result of energy that is released rapidly due to a fault between two electrodes. Such an energy release occurs during short-circuit conditions. To go a bit deeper on arc flashes, see our article here that provides a quick overview.

Arc flashes can reach temperatures surpassing 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat can lead to severe burns and other life-threatening injuries within milliseconds. The following blast wave can also be extreme, with the potential to throw workers across a room, causing physical trauma.

The brightness of the flash can cause temporary or permanent blindness, and the sound can lead to diminished hearing. The force of the blast can also result in concussions and other head injuries. It is important for workers to be mindful of these potential dangers.

Now, on to selecting an arc flash suit.

Selecting the right arc flash suit

Selecting the right arc flash suit is not only a matter of compliance, but also of ensuring your safety in the most dangerous environments. When choosing an arc flash suit, one of the most important factors to consider is the Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) rating. This rating indicates the level of protection the suit offers against thermal energy released during an arc flash.

It is crucial to select a suit with an ATPV rating that is suitable for the specific risks of your workplace. Talking to a safety expert or using a risk assessment tool can help you find the ATPV rating you need for your tasks.

Beyond safety measures, consider the comfort of your team members that will be wearing the arc flash suit. We've written another article on the pros and cons of wearing an arc flash suit, but we'll touch on some highlights here.

Comfort and ease of movement are also important factors in choosing an arc flash suit. You may wear the suit for a long time, so it is important to choose one that lets you move around and is comfortable. Some suits have features such as stretchable panels and ergonomic designs to improve comfort and flexibility.

The reputation of the manufacturer is important in the selection of your arc flash suit. Choose from established brands with a history of producing high-quality, reliable protective gear. Research the brands, read reviews, and seek recommendations from colleagues or industry experts. A well-known brand with a good safety record can make you feel safe and make sure you are buying a product that will protect you when it matters most.

So we've identified the best suit for your needs.

Now, it's time to prepare for the test. Let's dive in.

Preparing for the test

Before you enter the test, there are several key steps you should take to ensure you are fully prepared. First, it is crucial to check all the seams and zippers of your arc flash suit for integrity. Any signs of wear or damage can compromise the suit’s protective capabilities, so a thorough inspection is essential. Pay attention to the areas that get the most stress, like the elbows, knees, and shoulders, to make sure they are in good shape.

Once you've confirmed the suit's structural integrity, it's time to make sure it's clean. Contaminants such as oil or grease can degrade the suit's materials and reduce its effectiveness. A mild detergent and adherence to the manufacturer's cleaning instructions will help maintain the suit's integrity. A clean suit not only performs better but also provides a more comfortable and hygienic experience during the test.

Testing the suit's dielectric properties is another crucial step. This ensures the suit's electrical resistance is confirmed. In the event of a failed test, the suit should not be used, and the manufacturer should be contacted for further guidance. Regular testing of the dielectric properties is essential for maintaining the suit's reliability and ensuring safety.

In conclusion, carefully review the manufacturer's guidelines for the specific preparation steps. Each arc flash suit may have unique requirements, and adherence to these instructions can prevent potential issues during testing. Practice wearing and taking off the suit to be sure you do it correctly and quickly. This is important during emergencies where using the suit quickly and efficiently can greatly improve your safety.

Now that you're prepared, let's run the test.

Conducting the arc flash suit test

The arc flash suit test is a careful process that needs to be done correctly and knows all the safety rules. To guarantee the highest level of protection, it is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for testing procedures. These guidelines are crafted to simulate real-world conditions and to pinpoint any potential performance issues with the suit.

Once the inspection is complete, the next step is to run the test. The safest way to run the test is in a controlled environment. Make sure that anything that can be controlled, is done well. There is an amount of unpredictability involved, but you can still be well prepared.

To guarantee the precision of the test results, it is imperative to conduct the tests in a controlled environment. This involves setting up a testing area that closely reflects the conditions in which the arc flash suit will be used. Controlled environments help to minimize variables that could impact test outcomes, such as temperature, humidity, and lighting.

The test itself should also be a simple one. From a safe distance, pass the suit (preferably one you aren't wearing) through an open arc. There are numerous resources online to help you build a simple arc generator. Once you've built it and generated an arc, simply pass the suit through the arc to see how it reacts. A great arc flash suit should come out with little to no damage.

By adhering to these steps and upholding a stringent testing process, you can be confident that your arc flash suit is prepared to deliver the necessary protection when it is most needed.

Now for the final step.

Maintaining and inspecting your arc flash suit

Once you have your arc flash suit, you need to keep it clean and checked often to keep it in good shape and ready for any challenge. Over time, the materials and integrity of the suit can degrade, compromising your safety. A thorough inspection should be conducted before each use to ensure that the suit is free from any visible damage.

Look for signs of burns, tears, or any issues with the stitching. These can significantly reduce the suit’s effectiveness in protecting you from arc flash hazards. If you notice any damage, it’s essential to address it immediately. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for repair or replacement to keep your arc flash suit reliable and safe.

Cleaning your arc flash suit is another critical aspect of maintenance. Use a mild detergent and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the protective materials. After washing, air dry the suit in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. If you put the suit in the sun or heat, it can break down, making it less protective. Make sure the suit is completely dry before storing it to stop mold or mildew from growing. This can also make it less strong.

Your arc flash suit's storage is pivotal to its longevity and effectiveness. A cool, dry, and clean area, free from direct sunlight and potential chemical interactions, is the ideal storage space. This practice ensures that the suit maintains its necessary safety requirements and protective capacity.

As a final note, consider documenting the steps you took to prepare, test, and maintain the suit. Having these steps documented can make further future testing easier each time you do them. You can look back to see where a test may have gone wrong, or to address any additional new steps that should be included.

By adhering to these maintenance and inspection practices, you can be certain that your arc flash suit will continue to be a reliable and effective piece of personal protective equipment. Proper care and attention will not only extend the life of your suit but also keep you safe in hazardous environments. Remember, your safety is of the utmost importance, and a well-maintained arc flash suit is a critical component.