Electric arc – a danger that cannot be ignored
In an industrial environment, where electricity is integral to the work, there are many hazards. One of the most insidious and dangerous is arcing. This phenomenon, which may not seem very dangerous, actually poses a serious threat to the life and health of workers. In this article, we take a closer look at this phenomenon, its effects and the solutions that can protect us from it.
What is an electric arc?
An electric arc is nothing more than a continuous electrical discharge that is most often observed in gases at normal pressure or even higher. Imagine a spark that, instead of going out, persists for a long time and forms a bright, hot column. That is what an electric arc is.
The dangers of an electric arc
An electric arc carries a number of serious risks, such as:
- High temperature: the temperature of an electric arc can reach tens of thousands of degrees Celsius, causing second and third degree skin burns.
- Intense radiation: the electric arc emits strong ultraviolet and infrared radiation, which can lead to damage to the eyes and skin.
- Shock wave: the resulting shock wave can cause mechanical damage such as damage to eardrums, rupture of blood vessels or damage to internal organs.
- Molten metal particles: mol ten metal particles can be produced during an electric arc, causing additional injuries.
Standard protective clothing – does it protect against arcing?
Standard protective clothing, such as overalls or gloves, does not provide sufficient protection against electric arcs. The materials they are made of are not resistant to the extreme temperatures and radiation that accompany this phenomenon.
Solutions dedicated to arc flash protection
To provide effective protection against effects caused by electric arcs, it is necessary to use specialised protective clothing that meets the relevant standards. These garments are made of materials with high resistance to heat, flame and radiation.
Key features of protective clothing against electric arcs:
- High heat resistance: the material of the garment must be able to withstand extremely high temperatures.
- Flame resistance: the garment should be resistant to ignition and the spread of flame.
- Radiation resistance: the material should protect against the harmful effects of ultraviolet and infrared radiation.
- Long-lasting arc resistance: the garment should provide protection for a specific period of time after an electric arc has occurred.
Additional equipment:
- Safety helmets: protect the head from burns and mechanical injuries.
- Safety glasses: protect the eyes against ultraviolet and infrared radiation and molten metal splinters.
- Protective gloves: protect hands from burns and splashes.
- Safety shoes: protect feet from burns and mechanical injury.
Summary
The electric arc poses a serious risk to the life and health of workers. To ensure maximum safety, it is essential to use specialised protective clothing that meets the appropriate standards. Remember that an investment in appropriate protective equipment is an investment in the health and lives of workers.
Important: Before choosing clothing that provides protection against the effects of an electric arc, it is worth consulting an expert who can help you choose the right solution tailored to your individual needs.