IEC 61482-2:2018

Overview

IEC 61482-2:2018 (IEC - Live working - Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc - Part 2: Requirements) defines requirements and test methods for protective clothing used where there is a risk of exposure to an electric arc. It addresses material and garment performance against the thermal hazards of an electric arc (arc thermal protection), specifying how to demonstrate arc resistance and general textile properties. This part does not cover electric shock protection, eye/face/head/hand/foot protection, or equipment and garments intended for deliberate arc processes (e.g., welding, plasma cutting).

Key Topics and Requirements

• Arc thermal resistance - Verification of arc performance using recognized test methods: arc rating concepts such as ATPV and EBT (per IEC 61482-1-1) and arc protection classes (Class 1 / Class 2 per IEC 61482-1-2).
• Material requirements - General textile properties required for outer, intermediate and innermost layers, including:
  • Heat resistance and thermal stability of intermediate layers.
  • Volume resistance (electrical resistivity) where specified.
  • Limited flame spread characteristics.
  • Mechanical properties for woven outer materials and dimensional change after laundering/dry cleaning.
• Component testing - New or revised test procedures, for example thermal resistance of sewing threads, and requirements for threads, accessories and closures.
• Design and workmanship - Garment construction, sizing/ergonomics and ageing considerations to ensure protective function in service.
• Marking and instructions - Mandatory marking (including a new symbol) and user instructions detailing arc performance, care, limitations and conformity information.
• Conformity assessment - Type tests and tests for production-phase conformity to demonstrate ongoing compliance.

Applications and Who Uses This Standard

IEC 61482-2:2018 is used by:

• PPE manufacturers designing arc-rated protective clothing for electrical workers.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies performing arc thermal resistance and textile testing.
• Purchasing and safety managers specifying requirements for clothing in power generation, utilities, industrial maintenance and live-line work.
• Designers and quality engineers responsible for material selection, garment construction and labelling.

Practical applications include specifying and verifying garments for live working tasks where thermal arc risk exists, ensuring proper labelling, maintenance instructions and that garments meet recognized arc thermal protection performance metrics.

Related Standards

• IEC 61482-1-1 (open arc test methods; ATPV/EBT definitions)
• IEC 61482-1-2 (box/directed arc test; arc protection classes)
• IEC 61477 (related live working requirements)

Keywords: Electric Arc, Protective Clothing, Arc Thermal Protection, arc rating, ATPV, EBT, IEC 61482-2:2018.