CSLB C-10 Electrical ContractorSafety and TestingHard
An electrical contractor is performing work on an energized 480V panelboard, requiring an Arc Flash Hazard Analysis. The analysis indicates an incident energy level that necessitates Arc Flash PPE Category 4. Which of the following is a mandatory component of Arc Flash PPE Category 4, according to NFPA 70E?
- AArc-rated long-sleeve shirt and pants (minimum 8 cal/cm²)
- BArc-rated face shield, hard hat, and arc-rated balaclava
- CLeather work gloves (non-arc-rated)
- DStandard cotton coveralls
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Arc-rated face shield, hard hat, and arc-rated balaclava
NFPA 70E Table 130.7(C)(15)(c) details the specific PPE requirements for each category. Arc Flash PPE Category 4 (for incident energy of 25 to <40 cal/cm²) mandates a full arc flash suit, including an arc-rated face shield, hard hat, and arc-rated balaclava, along with other arc-rated clothing with a minimum arc rating of 40 cal/cm².
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This level of PPE (8 cal/cm²) is appropriate for Category 2, not Category 4.
- C. Leather work gloves are not arc-rated and are insufficient for Category 4 protection. Arc-rated gloves are required.
- D. Standard cotton coveralls offer no arc flash protection and are explicitly prohibited as the outermost layer in arc flash environments.
NFPA 70E PPE Components
Specific items of personal protective equipment mandated by NFPA 70E for different Arc Flash PPE Categories to protect workers from arc flash hazards.
- Requirements vary by category
- Includes clothing, head protection, hand protection
- All items must be arc-rated
Memory trick: Cat 4: Full Suit, Face Shield, Balaclava!