Electrical and Chemical Safety Clothing

T.A.S.C.O. Tip: Safety clothing in the workplace is a vast topic, especially when it comes to protection against electric shock or chemical burns. For example, when you shop for electrical protective clothing, you'll find different products vary in what is called an arc rating. Arc ratings are expressed as calories per centimeter squared. These values are determined by testing both thermal performance and a material's breakthrough threshold. These ratings are calculations based on a minimum of 20 data points generated in arc testing.

Of course, math and science experts best understand this subject. Suffice it to say that arc testing results are determined by how much energy can be transmitted through material without burning human tissue. When you evaluate safety clothing online, you'll see arc ratings such as 8 cal/cm2 or 17 cal/cm2. It's crucial that you research which arc-rated clothing will protect employees at your workplace.

When it comes to chemical hazards, the details are even more complex. One way to access advice on chemical protective clothing is through the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)'s Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards at www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/protect.html. At this site, you can search for specific information on a variety of chemicals including arsenic and tungsten. This information includes measurement methods, first aid, personal protection and sanitation, respirator recommendations, exposure routes and the symptoms of exposure.