Working with electricity is an inherently hazardous undertaking. Of the many workplace safety hazards and risks found in industrial environments, electrical arc flash ranks among the most serious. An arc flash is a type of electrical fault or short circuit, where current leaves its intended path and travels through the air from one conductor to another or to the ground. The energy released leads to a rise in both temperature and pressure and creates an arc blast.

Injuries from arc flash events are usually acute and often fatal, potentially affecting multiple victims. Given the potential for harm, the provision of suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) should be a top priority for safety teams in environments where arc flash risks are present.

In the case of hand protection, opt for industrial rubber insulating gloves (RIGs) designed specifically for electrical hazards. Leather protectors should be worn over the RIGs to extend the life of the glove while also protecting the wearer from cuts, abrasions, punctures, and arc flash.