Critical for use near utilities’ generators and substations as well as industrial electrical panels and switch rooms, Dromex arc workwear forms an important part of industrial equipment and services supplier BMG’s tool and equipment division’s comprehensive personal protective equipment (PPE) range.

BMG tools and equipment division business unit manager Andrew Johns advises customers to ensure that chosen workwear and PPE offers adequate protection for specific applications as every environment poses different safety challenges; correct product selection is crucial.

“Before selecting arc workwear and PPE for use in hazardous industries, where second- and third-degree burns can occur, it is important that an arc assessment is conducted. Once the arc hazard has been determined, the correct level of protection can be selected.”

Johns further explains that an arc flash – which can reach temperatures up to 20 000 °C – is a potentially fatal explosion of extreme light and radiant heat, as a result of a short circuit on an electrical panel.

This flash can be caused by dust, dropping tools, condensation, corrosion or a faulty installation.

In addition to second- and third-degree burns from the extreme heat of the blast, other possible injuries include burns from airborne molten metal, metal oxides and vapourised copper; concussion and head injuries; hearing impairment; damaged eyesight; and death. Additionally, it could cause a fire in the surrounding work areas.

“Because injuries in these dangerous working conditions can be fatal, we believe it is essential that all selected workwear and PPE undergo relevant testing,” explains Johns.

Moreover, tests should include fabric and garment analysis and be supported by official certification, giving employees the assurance that adequate protection will be provided.

BMG’s range of Dromex workwear and PPE includes dependable arc protection products that have been developed through consultation with experts, the testing of fabric combinations and work with world-leading testing facilities.

Johns says the range includes a head-to-toe PPE solution that is light weight, comfortable and provides the highest level of protection against an arc flash.

The Dromex arc workwear is locally manufactured, using Dromex Arc Protection Technologies (A.P.T.TM) fabric. These products – which include 55 Cal and 15 Cal garments, as well as arc gloves, footwear and visors – are certified to stringent local and international standards.

Johns notes that this certification gives the assurance of optimum protection in dangerous working environments where arc burns are a risk.

Designed for comfort and safety, BMG’s Dromex range has many important features including an inherent flame-retardant (FR) thread, triple needle stitched seams, transfer print and embroidery logos, FR velcro and double needle-stitched FR reflective tape.

The Dromex A.P.T.TM FR cotton fabric has passed “Red Metal” testing, which offers additional bodily protection from molten metal, vapourised copper and metal oxides up to 1 400 °C.

Johns explains that, in conventional testing, garments that are tested for flammability against the NFPA 2112 standard have been washed 100 times; the Dromex A.P.T.TM fabrics have been tested against the NFPA 2112 standard and excelled after 200 washes.

However, the service life of an arc garment is dependent on many factors, including careful wash care, storage between use and wear and tear during use.

Specialists recommend that if a worker is exposed to an arc flash incident, the workwear and PPE needs to be removed from service immediately and replaced. Arc protective garments and equipment should always be inspected before and after use to ensure that it is not damaged or torn.

BMG’s range of PPE items also includes general protective clothing, safety spectacles, goggles, face masks, gloves, vests, rain suits and footwear.