Section 130.7/Personal Protective Equipment for Arc Flash
NFPA 70E Section 130.7 covers PPE requirements for arc flash protection including PPE categories and incident energy analysis.
When work is performed within the arc flash boundary or the limited, restricted, or prohibited approach boundaries, workers must wear PPE appropriate for the hazard. Arc-rated clothing must have an arc rating equal to or greater than the estimated incident energy at the working distance. Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) provides the PPE category method as an alternative to a detailed arc flash analysis. PPE categories range from 1 (minimum 4 cal/cm2 arc rating) to 4 (minimum 40 cal/cm2). Shock protection requires insulated gloves rated for the voltage, insulated tools, and rubber insulating blankets where applicable.
Why this section exists
Arc flash incidents release enormous thermal energy that can cause severe burns and fatalities in milliseconds. PPE is the last line of defense when engineering controls and safe work practices cannot eliminate the hazard. The PPE category tables provide a simplified method for selecting protective clothing when a detailed incident energy analysis is not available. Shock protection PPE prevents electrocution from inadvertent contact with energized conductors.
What plan reviewers look for
Plan reviewers check that arc flash labels are specified for electrical equipment on the drawings. They verify the arc flash study or PPE category method is referenced in the electrical specifications. They check that equipment clearances allow workers to maintain safe approach distances. While PPE selection is an operational decision, the design must facilitate safe access and provide the information workers need for PPE selection.