Electric ARC Face Shields and Face Protection

Elvex ARC-Shield™ Face Protection

What is an Arc Flash Hazard?

An arc flash hazard is a dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc. This explosive condition includes a broad spectrum of electromagnetic energy, plasma, fragments and a spray of molten materials. (Download new draft OSHA ARC protection standard, see below).


*Elvex ARC-Shield, FS-18ARC10, on Visor Bracket, VB-10, and Cap mounted earmuffs, HM-6093.*	*Elvex ARC-Shield, FS-20ARC10, on Visor Bracket, VB-10, mounted with Slot Adapters, SA-93.*

Key Benefits

Protection value (ATPV) for Elvex FS-20ARC10-Shields are 10 cal/cm² (requirement is 8 cal/cm²)
Protection value for Elvex FS-18ARC10-Shield is 8 cal/cm²
Shields are available with and w/o chin protection
Shields come with standard anti-fog coating
Shields fit Elvex Visor Bracket (VB-10, VB-20, VB-30) for mounting to safety caps
Face and hearing protection can be used simultaneously on safety caps
Elvex system can be adapted to most major brands of slotted safety caps

Who is exposed to Electric ARC Hazard?

Electrical workers, linesmen and electricians working with high voltage connections are sometimes exposed to the sudden release of energy that occurs during an electrical arc. This is a very dangerous condition, that can result in serious burns and death. There has long been requirements established for safety clothing to be used by these workers, but from January 1, 2003, it is required that electrical workers use face protection meeting similar requirements. The National Fire Protection Association's standard 70E-2000 establishes Hazard or Risk categories, as shown in the table below. Elvex ARC-Shields are suitable for use in hazard/risk categories 1 and 2. The minimum Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) has been established to be 5 cal/cm² and 8 cal/cm² for these two risk categories. (Cal/cm² stands for calories per square centimeter).

Face & Head Protection Matrix adapted from NFPA 70E-2000

Highlighted area shows Hazard/Risk Categories where NFPA 70E-2000 considers Arc shields as adequate protection.

Hazard/Risk Category Adapted from NFPA 70E-2000	Head and Face Protection adapted from NFPA 70E-2000	Minimum ATPV in cal/cm²
0	Safety Glasses ARC Shield optional	N/A
1	Safety Glasses Arc Shield Safety Helmet	5
2	Safety Glasses Arc Shield Safety Helmet	8
2*	Safety Glasses Switch Hood Safety Helmet	8
3	Safety Glasses Switch Hood Safety Helmet	25
4	Safety Glasses Switch Hood Safety Helmet	40

Download NFPA Chart (Pdf) showing examples of jobs/tasks and corresponding Hazard/Risk Category rating

Download complete test report for Elvex ARC-Shields

Hazard Risk Assessment

The user must perform a hazard risk assessment to determine the level of exposure and need. This task can be accomplished with the proper training and software. More information is available at the following websites

Read article by Hugh Hoagland of ArcWear. Download the new OSHA ARC Protection Draft Standard.

Download OSHA'S draft ARC Protection standard (September 2005)

Arc Wear, www.arcwear.com
National Fire Protection Association, www.nfpa.org

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