NFPA 70E 2015 Offers Changes Related To Arc Rating

NFPA 70E provides requirements for safe work practices to protect personnel by reducing exposure to major electrical hazards. Originally developed at OSHA’s request, NFPA 70E helps companies and employees avoid workplace injuries and fatalities due to shock, electrocution, arc flash, and arc blast and assists in complying with OSHA 1910 Subpart S and OSHA 1926 Subpart K.

Provisions of NFPA 70E encompass safety-related work practices, safety-related maintenance requirements and safety requirements for special equipment. The standard includes guidance for making hazard identification and risk assessments, selecting appropriate PPE, establishing an electrically safe work condition, and employee training.

In the new 2015 edition of NFPA 70E, the term AR or arc rated as it relates to personal protective equipment (PPE) was introduced to help differentiate between AR and FR or flame resistant. As this infographic from Magid points out, all AR clothing is flame-resistant, but not all FR clothing has an arc rating.