Selection of Personal Protective Clothing for Arc Flash Risk in Argentina, based on the “Box Test” Method

The selection of suitable clothing for protection against the thermal effects of an Arc Flash, based on the “Box Test” method, is currently a matter of interest in Argentina among the different sectors in which it applies. Perhaps the historical lack of diffusion on this matter in our country and the recent impact from the mandatory certification of such clothing, according to the IRAM 3904 standard, have collaborated in this interest. This work begins with a general introduction to the subject of possible arc flash events and continues with a review of the main international regulations and the two most widespread and globally agreed-upon methods of clothing testing: “open arc” and “confined arc”. Subsequently, to provide a broader vision of the subject, considerations of the “Arc Flash Risk Assessment” are made, as an indispensable preliminary step for assessing the selection of adequate protection elements, taking into account the European and USA standards and legislation. Finally, the selection of protective clothing for safety against the thermal effects of an electric fault arc is specifically addressed, using the methodology proposed by the European guide BGI/GUV-I 5188 E. As a corollary, this subject is illustrated by developing an example of application for a real case.