How to choose arc flash protective clothing to IEC 61482
Arc flash protective clothing shields the wearer from the thermal effects of an electric arc. This guide explains the two IEC 61482 test methods, the difference between class APC 1/2 and the ATPV value, and how to set the protection level from a risk assessment.
View protective clothingBox test or open arc: which method applies?
The IEC 61482 series uses two separate test methods. IEC 61482‑1‑2 fires a directed arc inside a test box and sorts the material into class APC 1 (4 kA) or class APC 2 (7 kA). IEC 61482‑1‑1 uses an open arc and returns an individual protection value in cal/cm².
The box test reproduces a directed arc at a defined energy and is common in Europe because it gives a clear pass/fail class. The open arc instead measures the ATPV or EBT value, letting you match the garment precisely to a calculated incident arc energy.
Class APC 1/2 or ATPV value: what is the difference?
Class APC 1/2 is a passed type test at a fixed test energy. The ATPV value (Arc Thermal Performance Value) instead states how much energy density in cal/cm² the material withstands before a second-degree burn risk arises.
- APC 1 (4 kA): light to medium hazard, e.g. work near distribution boards.
- APC 2 (7 kA): higher short-circuit power, e.g. switchgear and transformer stations.
- ATPV/EBT: an exact figure compared against the calculated incident energy.
- The EBT value (Break-open Threshold) applies when the fabric breaks open before the heat limit is reached.
How does the risk assessment set the protection level?
The required protection level is not a gut feeling but the result of calculating the incident arc energy at the workplace. The inputs are the prospective short-circuit current, the clearing time of the protective device and the working distance.
From these values the incident energy is determined in cal/cm². The clothing must offer an ATPV value above this incident energy, or a suitable class APC 1/2 is chosen. Shorter clearing times and greater distances markedly reduce the required energy.
Why is face protection mandatory too?
Clothing only covers the body. The face, head and neck stay unprotected without extra equipment, even though they are directly exposed to radiant heat and the pressure wave. Only the combination gives complete arc flash protection.
- Face shield or helmet with an arc-rated visor set to the same protection level.
- Flame-retardant balaclava for head and neck.
- Insulating gloves and flame-retardant underwear as a supplement.
- Every layer must be flame retardant: a melting middle layer defeats the protection.
Frequently asked questions
What do APC 1 and APC 2 mean?
APC stands for Arc Protection Class under the box test IEC 61482‑1‑2. APC 1 is tested at 4 kA and APC 2 at 7 kA. APC 2 covers higher short-circuit power.
What does the ATPV value tell me?
The ATPV value in cal/cm² states how much incident arc energy the material withstands before a second-degree burn risk arises. It is measured with the open arc to IEC 61482‑1‑1.
How do I find the right protection level?
Through the risk assessment: the incident energy is calculated from short-circuit current, clearing time and working distance. The clothing must have a higher ATPV value or meet the matching class.
Is the clothing enough on its own?
No. The face, head and hands need extra protection at the same level, such as an arc-rated visor and a flame-retardant balaclava, so no weakest link remains.
Looking for arc flash clothing?
We supply certified clothing to IEC 61482 in class APC 1 and 2 plus matching face and head protection - aligned with your risk assessment.
Standard tested
All items meet the requirements of IEC 61482.
Clearly classified
Class APC 1/2 and ATPV value clearly marked.
Fully combinable
Clothing, visor and head protection at one level.
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