The warm weather of the summer months is usually the worst time of year in the fight against insects.

Many linemen and utility workers find themselves in need of protection from pests on the job in the warm weather.  Even in the northern climates now there is risk of mosquito and tick-borne diseases (like West Nile Virus). There are different types of protection for exposed skin than for protective garments themselves. It is important to be aware of the differences for maximum safety and protection...

All the Buzz: Multi-Hazard PPE
Multi-hazard PPE is the new buzzword in the FR marketplace. We first heard the term “multi-hazard protection” in 2013 when Nomex MHP was launched-- a fiber designed and marketed to protect against multiple industrial threats like electric arc, flash fire, and molten metal.

Also in 2013, a TIA for NFPA 2112 went into effect which removed the 10% shrinkage requirement for cold-weather insulation. This meant modacrylic used as cold-weather insulation could meet the flash fire rated standard; consequently, more winterwear was certified and began entering 2112 marketplace.  This TIA did not apply to single layer fabrics, so Modacrylic vests (the most common flame resistant high vis vest) were still not meeting the standard.  Additionally, NFPA 2112 was originally a coverall standard and requires the fabric to allow no more than a 50% body burn. This is necessary in a shirt, pant, or coverall but it may not be necessary in a vest; the company will need to decide.

Then, in 2014, the final rule of OSHA 1910.269 addressed winterwear and rainwear by requiring the outer layer of clothing worn by a worker to be FR under certain conditions.
Industrial workers are exposed to numerous threats on the job and as the industry evolves, multi-hazard PPE is becoming more popular. Manufacturers have worked to create, test, and certify PPE that is comfortable, affordable, and suitable for exposures to several hazards and elements.
Having one garment suitable for all threats in the workplace is a desirable characteristic, as it’s convenient and economical. Further, having multi-hazard PPE on the shelves can help employers to simplify their PPE program while following federal law.  

So, what’s new?
Products marketed for compliance with both NFPA 2112 and ASTM F1506 have now been on the market for years. The newest products on the market include shirts, vests, and outerwear that have been certified for a triple threat: ANSI 107 for high visibility, NFPA 2112 for flash fire, and ASTM F1506/NFPA 70E for electric arc. There are also lines of multi-hazard rainwear available that meet the requirements of ASTM F1891 (rainwear for electric arc), ASTM F2733 (rainwear for flash fire), and ANSI 107 for high-visibility (which includes special requirements for rainwear or flame-resistant products).

There are several fiber blends (both inherent and treated) on the market suitable for compliance with ASTM F1506 and NFPA 2112. Making flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) materials compliant with ANSI 107 has historically been a challenge as there are strict color and brightness requirements, including requirements after exposure to light. Previously, products in the market that use a modacrylic blend have been used for FR compliance with ANSI 107.  Today, newer products are using a compliant cotton/nylon blend and another inherent blend of Modacrylic, Lyocell and Aramid, which leaves options open for the end-users. Both Modacrylic blends and FR cotton blends have a lot to offer in terms of protection, comfort, and durability.

What are all of these numbers?
NFPA 2112 Standard on Flame-Resistant Garments for Protection of Industrial Personnel against Flash Fire lays out criteria for the design and performance of garments intended to be used in the event of a short-duration thermal exposure. Compliance with NFPA 2112 requires third-party certification. This certification is performed by an ISO/IEC 17065 accredited entity with legal means to back their mark, and manufacturers must show product compliance through testing (on an ongoing basis) and auditing of facilities and quality management systems.

ASTM F2733- Standard Specification for Flame Resistant Rainwear for Protection against Flame Hazardsimilar to NFPA 2112, ASTM F2733 requires large scale flash fire manikin testing and has a tighter body burn requirement (<40% body burn to pass versus <50% in NFPA 2112). The standard is used for rainwear and has additional testing requirements for flame, tear strength, and leak resistance.

ASTM F1506 (used for material compliance with NFPA 70E) is a specification for clothing used by workers with exposure to the thermal hazards of an electric arc. ASTM F1506 is a self-certification specification that requires a large scale electric arc test (output is an ‘arc rating’ that is used to match the hazard in the workplace).

ANSI 107 Standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel applies to any worker requiring conspicuity in daytime and at night (to be seen where there are moving vehicles or equipment). Applicable to workers with low visibility (construction, utility, emergency response workers, etc.), the standard outlines requirements for the background material (brightness, strength, and durability requirements), combined performance material, retroreflective trim, and garment design.

Where is this clothing applicable?
The hazard assessment (required to be performed by the employer per OSHA 1910.269) could determine that more than one hazard exists in the workplace; A PPE program should be put into place after a hazard assessment is completed.  PPE is used to provide a last resort of protection with the intent of reducing risk of injury when other means are not possible. Determining a PPE program requires matching PPE to the hazard while also considering design, comfort, and cost.
If it is determined that there are multiple risks in the workplace (for example, a construction worker with struck by hazards and a risk of electric arc exposure), outfitting the worker in multi-hazard PPE is a cost-effective and convenient way to protect workers.
Do you need to switch your high-vis vest if your workers have an exposure to arc flash or flash fire?
  • 1.If you currently use an FR polyester, the answer is YES.  There is really no such thing as FR polyester.  Using the NFPA 701 curtain textile test or ASTM D6413 test method as your only FR criteria is unwise, and it does not meet ANSI 107 or any applicable FR standard.
  • 2.If you currently have an ASTM F1506 vest but think you want to consider flash fire as an additional potential hazard, you may feel very comfortable that the vest will not increase injury in the event of an arc flash or a flash fire. These multi-hazard vests are also available in mesh which is non-contributory and will give you a very cool vest compared to the NFPA 2112 compliant vests.
  • 3.If you are considering a multi-hazard protection strategy and want a coverall, shirt, or pant to meet the ANSI 107, ASTM F1506, AND the NFPA 2112 standards you will definitely want to consider one of the newer materials.
Due to changes in federal law and increasing demand, the multi-hazard PPE market is expanding, and more options are available than ever before. Choose the PPE that works best for your hazard and work environment.

About the Authors:  Hugh Hoagland of  ArcWear  and e-Hazard is a specialist in arc flash testing and electrical safety training. Stacy Klausing, M.Sc., of  ArcWear  is a flame-resistant textile specialist focusing on ASTM F1506 and NFPA 2112 testing.
NEW!  WATCH OUR LATEST ARC FLASH SAFETY VIDEO
Video Thumbnail
Tacoma Power commissioned a study of their flame retardant treated PPE due to worker concerns about possible hazards.   The basic outcome is positive--there is no link cited in the literature to negative health effects from the types of FR treatments used in arc flash PPE.  The health hazards on the...
Wherever there is voltage, there is also the potential for an electrical incident, whether it is shock or arc flash. How can workers be protected? What is the best way to protect them? National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health uses a chart to show the five levels of safety...
In New Zealand, we have a lot of importers bringing in [personal protective equipment] garments  from Pakistan or China, etc., and they are muddying the waters with different cal ratings on different garments, and then the end users get confused as to what they should wear in a level 2 environment...
2015 Low Voltage DVD Training Package
We are excited to tell you that our new 2015 Training Package is now available for purchase!
Want the e-Hazard training without the expense of our experts coming to your site? Now you can benefit from our expertise with our Low Voltage DVD Training Package, which includes:

Our full DVD of e-Hazard LV Qualified NFPA 70E class in video format; $3500+ value


5 seats: 
  • 5 copies of the e-Hazard LV Qualified NFPA 70E Class Workbook; $225 value
  • 5 copies of the NFPA 70E Standard; $337.50 value
  • 5 graded student exams
  • 1 full-hour session with an e-Hazard NFPA 70E expert via phone to answer your questions and discuss results of exams
  • 5 eight-hour Completion Certificates
Sponsored By
Martek Limited
Salisbury by Honeywell
National Safety Apparel
ARC AND FLASH FIRE STANDARDS
This 2-hour long webinar is an interactive presentation that covers the following material:
  • Vital FR industry and market information for FR sales (Continuing education to make your people experts in the industry)
  • Standard compliance for arc and flash fire for the US and global standards
  • Common misconceptions and mistakes
  • Fiber education for sales and development professionals
  • Q&A with Hugh Hoagland

Hugh Hoagland is known as the arc flash expert in the industry and has been testing, consulting, working with flame resistant materials, and participating on technical committees for standards development for over twenty years.

The ArcWear team actively participates on technical committees for ASTM F23 Personal Protective Equipment; ASTM D13 for Textiles; ASTM F18 Electrical; IEC; AATCC; NFPA 2112; ANSI 107 and NFPA 70E.  ArcWear is an ISO 17025 accredited testing laboratory for ASTM F1506, NFPA 2112, and several other industrial workwear standards.

Email or call us for details!

flashcert@arcwear.com
1+(502) 333-0510


The NSC Congress & Expo is the world's largest annual "must attend" event for safety, health and environmental professionals. For more than 100 years, professionals have turned to this event for industry-leading technology, education, networking opportunities and the tried and true products and services needed to stay at the forefront and remain competitive within the industry. 

The NSC Congress & Expo experience offers:

  • Career Advancement 
    Attendees don't have to hunt through blogs for perspectives on trends and best practices - they can choose from a host of carefully selected opportunities led by verified safety experts. And because safety challenges come in all shapes and sizes, presenters make time for Q&A at the end. 
    • Keynotes
      Hear nationally recognized leaders and motivational s from both the public and private sectors speak about current and future issues affecting the industry. 
    • Technical Sessions
      Participate in more than 130 technical sessions, selected by a team that has hands-on knowledge of the latest industry trends providing the most comprehensive information needed to face today's challenges. 
    • Professional Development Seminars
      Participate in more than 25 seminars providing in-depth, hands-on opportunities to focus on continued professional growth.
  • The Expo Floor
    With both employee safety and budget-friendliness in mind, attendees can compare vendors for a particular product in one place over the course of three days. The time and energy put into researching options is minimized - and face-to-face communication ensures questions are answered and needs are met. 
    • Explore the Expo floor offering 200,000+ net square feet of more than 1,000 companies showcasing the latest innovative products and services. You'll also find the Email Oasis/Networking Lounge, Mobile Charging Stations, New Product Showcase Locators, OSHA's Top 10 most cited safety violations and solutions from the International Safety Equipment Association.
  • Networking on a global level 
    Network and unwind with like-minded professionals in the Email Oasis/Networking Lounge, during Dedicated Expo Hours, Technical Tours or at the National Awards Celebration.

Who attends?
The NSC Congress & Expo attracts decision makers, end users and distributors from a wide variety of industries including: manufacturing, construction, petrochemical and utilities. Coming from the United States, Canada and more than 60 other countries, these individuals range in experience from entry level to seasoned safety professionals representing companies such as Boeing, Schneider Electric, BP, Industrial Scientific, Kimberly Clark, URS, RockTenn Norcross, Fruit of the Loom and more.

Who exhibits?
Hundreds of industry-leading companies from around the world exhibit offering products and services in the following categories: general safety products, personal protective equipment, hazard controls and fall protection. Additionally, vendors specializing in facility maintenance and operation, environmental protection, ergonomics and risk management are in attendance to showcase their latest safety solutions. The show not only features large companies such as Honeywell, 3M and Grainger but hundreds of small to mid-size companies.

LOUISVILLE, KY
SEPT 29TH - OCT 1ST, 2015.

The International Construction and Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE), also known as The Demo Expo, is the premiere event for utility industry professionals to gain comprehensive insight into the latest technologies, innovations, insights, and trends affecting their industry.  

Find out who's exhibiting at ICUEE 2015 as well as the specific services and equipment featured.

At ICUEE 2015, attendees will have an opportunity to:
  • Visit with more than 850 leading manufacturers.
    • Explore the latest utility products and innovations.
    • Operate construction and utility equipment in job-like conditions.
  • “Test run” the products specific to your operation’s needs in a variety of ways, including:
    • Specialized exhibit pavilions for fleet management, safety, and green utility.
    • A 2-mile Ride & Drive test track (for on-road equipment and technologies).
    • An Indoor Demo Stage.
    • Extensive in-booth exhibitor product demos.
  • Learn from the pros!
    • Attend sessions to help you better understand the latest technologies and issues that are impacting the way you do business.
    • Talk directly to technical experts and equipment designers who can answer your industry-specific questions.
 NEW for 2015
  • FREE Bourbon Tasting – Thursday, October 1:
  • Auction to Benefit Veterans – Thursday, October 1:
    • Win vacation packages, equipment, tools, and more at a lower price than the retail value. Benefits the Call of Duty Endowment.
    • In partnership with Benjamin Media and J.J. Kane Auctioneers
  • ICUEE Demo Stage:
    • Sit down, relax, and have the new products and technologies come to you.
    • Presented by Benjamin Media
  • More Transportation Options:
    • Get everywhere faster by riding the improved intra-show shuttles, new golf cart taxis, and the new DEMO Express.
  • A place to recharge.
    • Sit down, relax, network with others, charge your devices, and take advantage of our Wi-Fi at the Fuel Stop in AREA Q.

Register Here!

Sponsored By
Westex by Milliken
Power Gripz
Tingley Rubber
Let's hang out!
Social media is a great way to stay  connected to the latest electrical  safety news, and you can check out our  "What Not To Do" photo series!  Come and join us!
Sponsored By
Tecgen
HiTemp
Voltgard
Louisville, KY - August 6-7th, 2015

This class is designed specifically for the needs of utility workers working with or near low or high voltage lines or equipment, or for those managing individuals in these environments. Attendees will learn about the dangers of arc hazards and safe work practices in accordance with the NESC and OSHA 1910.269 standards, practical protection strategies, best practices in arc flash and the state of the art in PPE.
Sponsored By
Paulson
Cementex
Advertising Opportunities
LOW VOLTAGE CLASSES

Used by many NFPA 70E committee members and over 900 trainers, our training provides you with a thorough knowledge of the dangers and recommended safe behaviors for those who work around electrical hazards.

More Information...

Reno, NV
August 18, 2015
August 25, 2015
August 26, 2015
HIGH VOLTAGE CLASSES
Working on or around 1 to 69kV industrial high voltage distribution systems requires qualification. In this training, attendees learn what it means to be HV qualified and what electrical tasks may only be performed by a qualified person.
August 18 - 19, 2015
August 25 - 26, 2015
August 26 - 27, 2015
NFPA 70E TTT CLASSES
e-Hazard's award-winning (OH&S Magazine 2014 Best of Safety Award)  Train the Trainer  (TTT) program is perfect for companies with multiple shifts, a large workforce or multiple departments.

More Information...
Louisville, KY
September 14 - 17, 2015
December 1 - 4, 2015

NEC FOR INDUSTRIAL INSTALLATIONS

This 40-hour training class was developed to bring workers up to speed on their understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC). During this five-day class, you will receive a thorough overview of the current code. Learn how to make your processes and facility compliant and how the NEC protects workers and property.

More Information...

November 9 - 13, 2015


NEC UPDATES FOR INDUSTRIAL INSTALLATIONS

This 16-hour course provides information regarding changes in the National Electrical Code (NEC) that impact electrical installations. It is organized around the practical aspects of electrical installation, compiling the most frequently referenced requirements, from entry level to advanced systems.

More Information...

September 21 - 22, 2015


Can't find a date that works for you?
Sponsored By
Revco
PBI
inolect
For Further Assistance:

502.716.7073
register@e-Hazard.com
Terri Wettle