ASTM F819-23

Standard Terminology Relating to Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2023
• ICS: 13.260 - Protection against electric shock. Live working
• Technical Committee: F18 - Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers
• Drafting Committee: F18.60 - Terminology

Relations

• Refers: ASTM F1117-03(2019) - Standard Specification for Dielectric Footwear
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2019
• Refers: ASTM F712-06(2018) - Standard Test Methods and Specifications for Electrically Insulating Plastic Guard Equipment for Protection of Workers
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2018
• Refers: ASTM F1116-14 - Standard Test Method for Determining Dielectric Strength of Dielectric Footwear
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2014
• Refers: ASTM F1117-03(2013) - Standard Specification for Dielectric Footwear
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2013
• Refers: ASTM F712-06(2011) - Standard Test Methods and Specifications for Electrically Insulating Plastic Guard Equipment for Protection of Workers
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2011
• Refers: ASTM F1116-03(2008) - Standard Test Method for Determining Dielectric Strength of Dielectric Footwear
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2008
• Refers: ASTM F1117-03(2008) - Standard Specification for Dielectric Footwear
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2008
• Refers: ASTM F712-06 - Standard Test Methods and Specifications for Electrically Insulating Plastic Guard Equipment for Protection of Workers
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2006
• Refers: ASTM F1117-03 - Standard Specification for Dielectric Footwear
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2003
• Refers: ASTM F1116-03 - Standard Test Method for Determining Dielectric Strength of Dielectric Footwear
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2003
• Refers: ASTM F712-88(2000) - Standard Test Methods for Electrically Insulating Plastic Guard Equipment for Protection of Workers
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2000
• Refers: ASTM F712-88(1995) - Standard Test Methods for Electrically Insulating Plastic Guard Equipment for Protection of Workers
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2000
• Refers: ASTM F1117-93(1998) - Standard Specification for Dielectric Overshoe Footwear
• Effective Date: 10-Jan-1998
• Refers: ASTM F1116-88(1995) - Standard Test Method for Determining Dielectric Strength of Overshoe Footwear
• Effective Date: 07-Nov-1997

Overview

ASTM F819-23: Standard Terminology Relating to Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers provides essential definitions and terminology used across standards for electrical safety equipment. Developed by the ASTM Committee F18 on Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers, this document ensures consistent language for the manufacturing, testing, and application of insulating equipment such as gloves, blankets, sleeves, footwear, and related components. The terminology facilitates effective communication among manufacturers, safety professionals, and end-users working with or specifying electrical protective equipment.

Key Topics

ASTM F819-23 standardizes terminology addressing a wide spectrum of elements critical to electrical protective equipment, including:

• Arc-related Definitions

  • arc duration
  • arc energy
  • arc gap
  • arc thermal performance value (ATPV)
  • arc voltage

• Material Properties

  • afterflame time
  • charring
  • embrittlement
  • halogenation treatment

• Design and Construction

  • blanket roll-up
  • bulk storage
  • cover (insulated enclosure)
  • glove, gauntlet, protector

• Electrical Performance

  • breakdown, electrical
  • flashover
  • proof-test current
  • maximum use voltage
  • retest voltage

• Testing and Inspection

  • electrical testing facility
  • visual inspection
  • acceptance, design, and routine testing

• Other Notable Terms

  • ozone cutting and checking
  • designated person
  • X/R ratio
  • user definition
  • isolated and insulated states

These definitions are critical for the proper specification, use, inspection, and maintenance of electrical personal protective equipment (PPE).

Applications

ASTM F819-23 serves as a foundational reference across industries and applications where electrical hazards are present, including:

• Utility and Power Generation
  Electricians and utility workers commonly use this terminology when selecting and inspecting PPE, ensuring regulatory compliance and workplace safety.

• Manufacturing and Testing
  Equipment manufacturers reference these definitions in product design, quality assurance, and testing protocols to meet ASTM certification requirements.

• Training and Documentation
  Employers, safety trainers, and inspectors utilize this standardized terminology for clear communication in safety manuals, training programs, and compliance documentation.

• Procurement and Specification
  Safety managers and procurement specialists rely on these terms to select compatible and suitable electrical protective equipment for various voltage classes and job requirements.

• Laboratory and Field Testing
  Testing facilities employ these terms in test procedures for dielectric strength, incident energy performance, and regular retesting of protective equipment.

Consistent terminology supports risk reduction, helps prevent misunderstandings, and ensures that all parties involved in electrical safety share a common understanding.

Related Standards

ASTM F819-23 works in tandem with a range of other ASTM standards to ensure comprehensive electrical worker protection:

• ASTM F712 - Test Methods and Specifications for Electrically Insulating Plastic Guard Equipment for Protection of Workers
• ASTM F1116 - Test Method for Determining Dielectric Strength of Dielectric Footwear
• ASTM F1117 - Specification for Dielectric Footwear

Professionals should consult these related standards for detailed test methods, product specifications, and additional terminology relevant to specific types of electrical protective equipment. For full safety compliance, always reference the latest standard edition published by ASTM International.

Keywords: ASTM F819-23, electrical protective equipment, safety terminology, dielectric testing, arc flash PPE, insulating gloves, voltage protection, ASTM electrical standards, worker safety.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F819 − 23
Standard Terminology
Relating to Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F819; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Referenced Documents blanket roll-up, n—a container made from fabric or similar
2 material and specifically designed to protect the blanket from
1.1 ASTM Standards:
damage during storage or transportation.
F712 Test Methods and Specifications for Electrically Insu-
lating Plastic Guard Equipment for Protection of Workers
blowout, n—the extinguishing of the arc caused by a magnetic
F1116 Test Method for Determining Dielectric Strength of
field.
Dielectric Footwear
breakdown, electrical, n—the electrical discharge or arc
F1117 Specification for Dielectric Footwear
occurring between the electrodes and through the equipment
being tested.
2. Terminology
bulk storage, n—the storage of hose or covers together with
afterflame time, n—the length of time in seconds for which a
one or more layers piled neatly, but without the benefit of
material continues to flame after the ignition source has been
spacers, supports, or special protective containers.
removed.
DISCUSSION—In arc testing, the length of time for which a specimen
charring, n—the formation of carbonaceous residue as the
continues to exhibit a visible flaming as determined by a time display
result of pyrolysis or incomplete combustion.
video recording of the specimen during arc testing.
closure, n—point on supply current wave form where arc is
arc duration, n—time duration of the arc(s).
initiated.
arc energy (vi dt), n—sum of the instantaneous arc voltage
color splash, n—a splash, smear, or streak of contrasting color
values multiplied by the instantaneous arc current values
evident on the inside or outside surface of the gloves or
multiplied by the incremental time values during the arc, (J).
sleeves that was deposited during the dipping operation and
is vulcanized into the material as part of the homogenous
arc gap, n—distance between the arc electrodes (inch).
compound.
Arc thermal performance value (ATPV), n—in arc testing,
compatible, adj—not injurious to or changing the physical or
the incident energy on a fabric or material that results in a
electrical characteristics of the blankets or affecting their
50 % probability that sufficient heat transfer through the
application, use, or acceptability.
tested specimen is predicted to cause the onset of a second-
degree skin burn injury based on the Stoll curve.
cover, n—an electrically insulated enclosure designed to be
installed temporarily on various types of irregularly shaped
arc voltage, n—voltage across the gap caused by the current
electrical equipment to protect personnel and equipment
flowing through the resistance created by the arc gap, V.
working in close proximity.
asymmetrical arc current, n—the total arc current produced
designated person, n—an individual who is qualified by
during closure; it includes a direct component and a sym-
experience or training to perform an assigned task.
metrical component, A.
distorted, adj—physically changed from the natural and origi-
nal shape, caused by stress of any type.
These definitions are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F18 on
electrical testing facility, n—a location with qualified
Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers and are the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee F18.60 on Terminology. personnel, testing equipment, and procedures for the inspec-
Current edition approved May 1, 2023. Published June 2023. Originally
tion and electrical testing of electrical insulating protective
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as F819 – 22. DOI:
equipment.
10.1520/F0819-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
electrode, n—the energized or grounded conductor portion of
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
electrical test equipment which is placed near or in contact
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. with the material or equipment being tested.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F819 − 23
DISCUSSION—The foam filling should be free of voids, separations,
electrode clearance, n—the shortest path from the energized
holes, cracks, or the like.
electrode to the ground electrode.
isolated, adj—an object that is not readily accessible to persons
embrittlement, n—the formation of a brittle residue as the
unless special means of access are used.
result of pyrolysis or incomplete combustion.
ozone, n—a very active form of oxygen that is produced by
flashover, n—the electrical discharge or arc occurring between
corona, arcing, or ultraviolet rays.
electrodes and over or around, but not through, the equip-
ment being tested.
ozone cutting and checking, n—cracks produced by ozone in
a material under mechanical stress.
foot portion, n—the portion of the footwear below the wear-
er’s ankle bone. proof-test current, n—the current measured during ac proof
tests.
FRP insulating tubes and rods, n—fiberglass reinforced
DISCUSSION—This current is an indication of the validity of the
plastic (FRP) products manufactured so that the tubes and
dielectric constant of the type of material used and the thickness of the
rods produced will meet the electrical and mechanical
total contact area under test.
requirements in the standard.
protector, n—a glove designed to be worn over a rubber
gauntlet, n—the area of a glove between the wrist and the insulating glove.
reinforced edge of the opening.
retest, n—the tests given after the initial acceptance test,
usually performed at regular periodic intervals or as required
glove, n—a covering for the hand which has separate sections
because of physical inspection.
for the thumb and fingers or a mitten which has separate
sections for the thumb and multiple fingers.
rubber, n—a generic term that includes elastomers and elas-
tomer compounds, regardless of origin.
halogenation treatment, n—exposure of the entire rubber
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F819 − 22 F819 − 23
Standard Terminology
Relating to Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F819; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Referenced Documents
1.1 ASTM Standards:
F712 Test Methods and Specifications for Electrically Insulating Plastic Guard Equipment for Protection of Workers
F1116 Test Method for Determining Dielectric Strength of Dielectric Footwear
F1117 Specification for Dielectric Footwear
2. Terminology
afterflame time, n—the length of time in seconds for which a material continues to flame after the ignition source has been
removed.
DISCUSSION—
In arc testing, the length of time for which a specimen continues to exhibit a visible flaming as determined by a time display video recording of the
specimen during arc testing.
arc duration, n—time duration of the arc(s).
arc energy (vi dt), n—sum of the instantaneous arc voltage values multiplied by the instantaneous arc current values multiplied
by the incremental time values during the arc, (J).
arc gap, n—distance between the arc electrodes (inch).
Arc thermal performance value (ATPV), n—in arc testing, the incident energy on a fabric or material that results in a 50 %
probability that sufficient heat transfer through the tested specimen is predicted to cause the onset of a second-degree skin burn
injury based on the Stoll curve.
arc voltage, n—voltage across the gap caused by the current flowing through the resistance created by the arc gap, V.
asymmetrical arc current, n—the total arc current produced during closure; it includes a direct component and a symmetrical
component, A.
These definitions are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F18 on Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
F18.60 on Terminology.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2022May 1, 2023. Published December 2022June 2023. Originally approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 20152022 as
F819F819 – 22. – 10 (2015). DOI: 10.1520/F0819-22.DOI: 10.1520/F0819-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F819 − 23
blanket roll-up, n—a container made from fabric or similar material and specifically designed to protect the blanket from
damage during storage or transportation.
blowout, n—the extinguishing of the arc caused by a magnetic field.
breakdown, electrical, n—the electrical discharge or arc occurring between the electrodes and through the equipment being
tested.
bulk storage, n—the storage of hose or covers together with one or more layers piled neatly, but without the benefit of spacers,
supports, or special protective containers.
charring, n—the formation of carbonaceous residue as the result of pyrolysis or incomplete combustion.
closure, n—point on supply current wave form where arc is initiated.
color splash, n—a splash, smear, or streak of contrasting color evident on the inside or outside surface of the gloves or sleeves
that was deposited during the dipping operation and is vulcanized into the material as part of the homogenous compound.
compatible, adj—not injurious to or changing the physical or electrical characteristics of the blankets or affecting their
application, use, or acceptability.
cover, n—an electrically insulated enclosure designed to be installed temporarily on various types of irregularly shaped electrical
equipment to protect personnel and equipment working in close proximity.
designated person, n—an individual who is qualified by experience or training to perform an assigned task.
distorted, adj—physically changed from the natural and original shape, caused by stress of any type.
electrical testing facility, n—a location with qualified personnel, testing equipment, and procedures for the inspection and
electrical testing of electrical insulating protective equipment.
electrode, n—the energized or grounded conductor portion of electrical test equipment which is placed near or in contact with
the material or equipment being tested.
electrode clearance, n—the shortest path from the energized electrode to the ground electrode.
embrittlement, n—the formation of a brittle residue as the result of pyrolysis or incomplete combustion.
flashover, n—the electrical discharge or arc occurring between electrodes and over or around, but not through, the equipment
being tested.
foot portion, n—the portion of the footwear below the wearer’s ankle bone.
FRP insulating tubes and rods, n—fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) products manufactured so that the tubes and rods
produced will meet the electrical and mechanical requirements in the standard.
gauntlet, n—the area of a glove between the wrist and the reinforced edge of the opening.
F819 − 23
glove, n—a covering for the hand which has separate sections for the thumb and fingers or a mitten which has separate sections
for the thumb and multiple fingers.
halogenation treatment, n—exposure of the entire rubber surface area to a halogen for the purpose of reducing surface friction.
heat attenuation factor HAF, n—in electric arc testing, the percent of the incident energy which is blocked by a material at
an incident energy level equal to ATPV.
2 2
heat flux, n—the thermal intensity indicated by the amount of energy transmitted divided by area and time kW/m (cal/cm s).
hose, n—an electrical insulating tube with a longitudinal slit designed to be installed temporarily on energized electrical wires.
2 2
i t, n—sum of the instantaneous arc current values squared multiplied by the incremental time values during the arc (A s).
ignition, n—the initiation of combustion.
incident energy (E ) , ), n—the amount of energy (total heat, cal/cm ) received at a surface as a direct result of an electric arc
i
discharge as measured by temperature rise on copper calorimeters.
insulated, v—separated from other conducting surfaces by a dielectric substance (including air space) offering a high resistance
to the passage of current.
DISCUSS
...