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NFPA 70E: Annex Marks the Spot — Part 7

Oct. 18, 2024
Informative Annex H is provides guidance for selecting PPE, such as protective clothing.

The subject of arc-rated clothing is confusing to many, partly because the requirements have been evolving.

This Annex helps you make the correct selection. It refers you to the tables in 130.7(C)(15). Those tables are much easier to understand and apply than their earlier counterparts were. The (a) and (b) tables are for AC and DC systems, respectively. The three columns in each one are the equipment (e.g., panelboards, metal-clad switchgear, etc.), arc flash category, and arc flash boundary. You would use the appropriate (a) or (b) to determine the arc flash category, then turn to the (c) table to determine the minimum personal protective equipment (PPE). That’s actually pretty simple when you think about it.

The Annex also contains Table H.2, which illustrates the simplified two-category, arc-rated clothing system. The two categories are everyday work clothing and arc flash suit. Also pretty simple. H.4 discusses the supplier’s declaration of conformity, which is essentially documentation showing that specific article of PPE meets specific criteria.

This Annex doesn’t take long to read and it gives you a good framework for applying 130.7, which does take long to read. And you can’t just pick 130.7 out of context. You need to work your way through it starting with 130.1. Using the Annex to give you the framework for the PPE selection will help you overcome confusion and make the correct selection.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.

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