IEC 61482 Standard : Protective clothing against the hazards of electric arc
The IEC 61482 protective clothing is designed to protect workers exposed to the thermal hazards of an electric arc during live working. This international standard, although not officially validated by ISO or the EN/EN ISO system, is the reference for PPE protection against electric arc in industry, electrical maintenance, power distribution, and interventions on electrical installations.
Two versions in force: IEC 61482-2:2009 and IEC 61482-2:2018
Unlike other PPE standards, IEC 61482 currently exists in two versions: 2009 and 2018.As none of them are EN or EN ISO, you can use either one according to the supplier's documentation.
What changes between the two versions:
- Evolution of the pictogram
- Class 1 (4 kA) replaced by APC 1, Class 2 (7 kA) replaced by APC 2, but the test power remains the same
- ELIM value introduced: it determines the incident energy limit associated with a 5% risk of second-degree burn (vs. ATPV : 50%)
- New tests (fabric removal at 180°C according to ISO 17943, electrical resistance according to EN 1149-2)
On most garments (excluding the Flash Tech range), the ATPV or ELIM values refer to the fabric alone, but our garments are tested according to IEC 61482-2 Box Test method.
Understanding the IEC 61482 Standard
Objective
Protect against the thermal effects of an electric arc: severe burns, projection of molten metal, pressure waves, hearing damage, inhalation of toxic fumes, eye injuries, and indirect risks (see table below). IEC 61482 arc flash PPE minimizes the risk, but does not protect against electrocution (direct electric shock).
IEC 61482 Standard Test Methods
There are two main methods:
1.Constrained Arc Test (Box Test) – IEC 61482-1-2
- Simulation of an electric arc in a constrained enclosure
- Assessment on the fabric and then the finished garment
- Class 1 (APC 1) : 4 kA / Class 2 (APC 2) : 7 kA
- After exposure, the garment must remain functional (seams, accessories, fastenings, etc.)
2.Open Arc Test – IEC 61482-1-1
- The fabric is exposed to the electric arc in open air
- Two values:
- ATPV (Arc Thermal Performance Value) : maximum energy (cal/cm²) supported before second-degree burn (50% risk)
- EBT (Energy Breakopen Threshold) : energy at which the material is punctured/broken
- ELIM (Energy Limit Value, (2018) : exposure energy limit where the risk of severe burn remains below 5%)
- Allows you to adapt the choice of electrician PPE to the actual risk level
The dangers of electric arc: why wear IEC 61482 certified clothing?
An electric arc (or "arc flash") is a current passing through the air, releasing extreme thermal energy:
- Intense heat : severe burns (up to 3rd degree)
- Molten metal splashes, sparks and toxic fumes
- Shock wave and sound wave (>140 dB) : risk of deafness
- Ultraviolet/infrared light : eye injuries
- Smoke, pressure, damage to the respiratory tract
⚠️ Clothing alone is not sufficient.They must be supplemented with other appropriate arc flash PPE: insulating gloves, helmet, visor, overshoes…
Scope of application of the IEC 61482 standard
The IEC 61482 standard covers the requirements and tests for electrician workwear, their textiles, and accessories designed to protect against the thermal energy of an arc.It defines :
- The properties of textiles (arc resistance, strength, PPE compatibility, etc.)
- Protection levels : Class 1 / APC1 (4 kA) and Class 2 / APC2 (7 kA)
- Standard test methods (Box Test, Open Arc)
- Does not cover protection for the head, hands, feet, or the risk of direct electric shock
Service life and maintenance of arc flash clothing
The performance of IEC 61482 equipment changes over time depending on:
- The number of washes, maintenance, decontamination/disinfection
- Exposure to UV, high temperature, chemicals, humidity
- Mechanical wear (abrasion, folding, bending, etc.)
- Exposure to biological agents or pollutants (oils, dust, molten metal splashes…)
Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure the effectiveness of your PPE!
In summary The standard IEC 61482 (and not EN 61482) is the reference for the selection of arc flash PPE.It helps you select the best protection against thermal risks related to electric arcs according to working conditions. Choose your clothing based on the correct test and protection class, check their wear condition, and always combine them with additional PPE (gloves, visor, insulating helmet, etc.).
Need advice? Discover the Cepovett Safety range dedicated to IEC 61482 electric arc protection, tested and adapted to the requirements of your sector
