What Is an Arc Flash?
An electric arc flash is one of the most devastating workplace hazards. Reaching temperatures hotter than the surface of the sun, an arc flash releases blinding light, deafening sound, and explosive thermal energy within milliseconds. Personnel operating in, power generation plant, manufacturing facilities, and electrical maintenance sectors face this severe threat daily.
Why Arc Flash Protection Requires a Full PPE System
Because an arc flash can inflict fatal burns or permanent blindness instantly, field technicians, engineers and switching operators require specialised, heavy-duty protection. True risk management requires an integrated, head-to-toe personal protective equipment (PPE) system. To meet this critical need, CHARNAUD® engineered the SURVIVE-ARC® range; a uniquely designed, comprehensive system of protective wear engineered to deliver robust physical and thermal protection, ensuring workers return home safely.
Spotlight: The SURVIVE-ARC® CAT 4 Switching hood (ATPV 51.5 cal/cm²)
Technical Design and Construction
The royal blue hood features a shaped, one-piece construction crafted from technical fabric that remains inherently flame-resistant for the entire operational life of the garment. Unlike treated cotton fabrics, its protective qualities will never wash out or degrade, and it remains fully water-washable for easy maintenance.
To ensure structural integrity and physical safety, the unit features an internal dielectric hard hat designed to absorb impact while preventing electrical conductivity. The hood is fitted with a grey, transparent protective face shield with a broad field of vision with improved optical correctness, eliminating visual distortion during precise switching operations.
Full-Body Protection & Performance
Wearing life-saving PPE can be physically demanding. CHARNAUD® addresses worker fatigue by utilising highly breathable textiles that actively absorb perspiration and moisture. The hood is structurally optimised to interface seamlessly with the broader SURVIVE-ARC® workwear and accessories ecosystem, though it must be worn alongside a matching, complete 51.5 cal/cm² switching suit to achieve full, body-wide compliance.
To suit the diverse needs of different types working environments, the SURVIVE-ARC® CAT 4 Switching Hood is available in three functional models:
- Non-Ventilated Hood – the standard, streamlined configuration.
- Ventilated Hood- features a built-in air extraction/circulation system to manage heat stress during prolonged use.
- Ventilated with ATEX Zone 2/22 Certified Headlamp – engineered for explosive atmospheres, this specialized variant includes an intrinsically safe headlamp providing illumination for extended use in hazardous zones.
Ultimately, the SURVIVE-ARC® CAT 4 Switching Hood demonstrates that uncompromising thermal defence can coexist with ergonomics and reliable functionality on the frontline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ATPV rating does the SURVIVE-ARC® CAT 4 Switching Hood have?
The SURVIVE-ARC® CAT 4 Switching Hood has an Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) of 51.5 cal/cm², exceeding the 40 cal/cm² minimum required for NFPA 70E Category 4 protection.
What does the Heat Attenuation Factor (HAF) mean?
Heat Attenuation Factor measures the percentage of arc energy a material blocks. The SURVIVE-ARC® CAT 4 Switching Hood has a HAF of 93.9%, meaning it blocks over 93% of the radiant heat energy generated during an electrical explosion.
Why is head and face protection important during an arc flash?
While torso and limb protection are fundamental, the head, face, and eyes are particularly vulnerable to convective heat and blinding energy blasts during an arc flash. A dedicated hood with an appropriately arc-rated face shield is essential to protect these especially exposed areas.
Does the hood’s flame resistance wash out over time?
No. Unlike treated cotton fabrics, the hood’s protective qualities are inherent to the technical fabric and will never wash out or degrade, and the hood remains fully water-washable for easy maintenance.
Can the SURVIVE-ARC® CAT 4 Switching Hood be worn on its own for full compliance?
No. The hood must be worn alongside a matching, complete 51.5 cal/cm² switching suit to achieve full, body-wide compliance.
What models of the hood are available?
The hood is available in three functional models: a Non-Ventilated Hood, a Ventilated Hood with a built-in air extraction/circulation system, and a Ventilated Hood with an ATEX Zone 2/22 certified headlamp for use in explosive atmospheres.
What standards is the SURVIVE-ARC® CAT 4 Switching Hood certified to?
The hood is certified to NFPA 70E & ASTM F2178 (US), IEC 61482-2 (international), and SANS 724 (South Africa’s national standard for protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc).
Is arc flash PPE required by law in South Africa?
Yes. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act’s General Safety Regulations, employers are legally required to provide appropriate PPE, including arc-rated protective equipment, wherever a risk assessment identifies an electrical hazard.
