You’ve heard it before: personal protective equipment (PPE) is the last line of defense. When you’re standing face-to-face with an electrical fire, or a vaporizing arc flash that can happen in the blink of an eye, your gear is a lifeline. It can make the difference between getting home safe, and being sent home in a wooden box.

Every three years, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) releases a new edition of NFPA 70E, the standard which helps reduce workers’ exposure to major electrical hazards. Graphic Products has summarized elements of the 2015 standard to create an Arc Flash PPE Quick Reference Guide.

The 2015 standard uses a new Arc Flash PPE Category system to replace the Hazard/Risk Category (HRC) previously used. The Arc Flash PPE Quick Reference Guide is an easy-to-use graphic which outlines the four PPE categories used to classify arc flash hazard ranges. The graphic details arc rated clothing and personal equipment based upon the standard's recommendations for equipment and practices.

The guide can be used as a safety training resource to help companies and employees avoid workplace injuries and fatalities, and comply with applicable OSHA standards. Facilities can request the complimentary quick reference guide or receive it as part of Graphic Products’ comprehensive Arc Flash Labeling Best Practice Guide, which further outlines NFPA 70E labeling requirements, electrical safety programs, and more.

Graphic Products is an innovative leader, providing solutions for safety and visual communication since 1970. The company's full line of safety products are designed for the modern workforce. Graphic Products leads the industry with safety training materials, educational resources, and up-to-date news and compliance information on topics like arc flash, chemical labeling, and pipe marking. Visit GraphicProducts.com or call 888.637.3893 to improve your facility’s safety and productivity.