IEC 61482-2:2009

Live working - Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc - Part 2: Requirements

IEC 61482-2:2009 is applicable to protective clothing used in work if there is an electric arc hazard. Specifies requirements and test methods applicable to materials and garments for protective clothing for electrical workers against the thermal hazards of an electric arc based on:
- relevant general properties of the textiles, tested with selected textile test methods, and
- arc thermal resistance properties, such as:
a) the arc rating of materials (ATPV or EBT50), when tested with an open electric arc under defined laboratory conditions according to IEC 61482-1-1, or
b) the arc protection class of materials and garments (Class 1 or Class 2), when tested with a directed and constrained electric arc under defined laboratory conditions according to IEC 61482-1-2.
Requirements of this standard do not address electric shock hazards. The present standard is applicable in combination with standards covering such hazards.

Travaux sous tension - Vêtements de protection contre les dangers thermiques d'un arc électrique - Partie 2: Exigences

La CEI 61482-2:2009 est applicable aux vêtements de protection utilisés pour réaliser des travaux lorsqu'il y a un danger d'arc électrique.Spécifie les exigences et les méthodes d'essai applicables aux matériaux et aux articles d'habillement utilisés pour les vêtements de protection des travailleurs électriques contre les dangers thermiques d'un arc électrique, lesquelles se basent sur
- les propriétés générales des textiles qui s'appliquent, vérifiées à l'aide de méthodes d'essai des textiles sélectionnées, et
- les propriétés de résistance thermique à l'arc, telles que:
a) la caractéristique d'arc des matériaux (ATPV ou EBT50), lorsque vérifiée avec un arc électrique à l'air libre sous des conditions de laboratoire déterminées et conformément à la CEI 61482-1-1, ou
b) la classe de protection à l'arc des matériaux et articles d'habillement (Classe 1 ou Classe 2), lorsque vérifiée avec un arc électrique dirigé et contraint sous des conditions de laboratoire déterminées et conformément à la CEI 61482-1-2.
Les exigences de la présente norme ne traitent pas des dangers d'électrisation. La présente norme est applicable en combinaison avec les normes couvrant ce genre de dangers.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 19-Apr-2009
• ICS: 13.220.40 - Ignitability and burning behaviour of materials and products
• ICS: 29.260.99 - Other electrical equipment for working in special conditions
• Technical Committee: TC 78 - Live working
• Drafting Committee: WG 13 - TC 78/WG 13
• Current Stage: DELPUB - Deleted Publication
• Start Date: 28-May-2018
• Completion Date: 26-Oct-2025

Relations

• Revised: IEC 61482-2:2018 - Live working - Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc - Part 2: Requirements
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 61482-2:2009 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies requirements and test methods for protective clothing used by electrical workers exposed to electric arc hazards. This standard addresses the thermal hazards of electric arcs, focusing on the arc thermal resistance of materials and garments. It provides essential guidance for manufacturers, safety professionals, and users to ensure adequate protection against heat generated by electric arcs during live working operations.

The standard applies to protective clothing designed to prevent thermal injuries but does not cover electric shock hazards or other risks such as noise, UV emissions, or toxic effects. It should be used in conjunction with standards for electrical shock protection.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability: IEC 61482-2:2009 applies specifically to protective clothing used in environments where electric arc risks are present. It excludes protection for head, hands, and feet, and does not cover electric shock hazards.

• Material and Garment Requirements:

  • Tests focus on general textile properties, such as flame resistance, mechanical strength, and durability after laundering or dry cleaning.
  • Key thermal performance is evaluated through:
    • Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) or Energy Breakopen Threshold (EBT50) measured with an open electric arc (per IEC 61482-1-1).
    • Arc Protection Classes (Class 1 and Class 2) assessed via the directed and constrained electric arc method (per IEC 61482-1-2).

• Design and Construction:

  • Ensures garments maintain protective properties through consistent material quality, workmanship, size ergonomics, and appropriate closures.
  • Requirements to minimize flame spread and maintain mechanical integrity over garment lifetime.

• Testing and Conformity Assessment:

  • Specifies pre-treatment procedures, including laundering or dry cleaning, before testing.
  • Includes strict type tests and conformity assessment rules to verify ongoing compliance throughout production.
  • Marking durability and clear instructions for use are required to support proper garment maintenance and safety.

Applications

• Electrical Utilities and Power Distribution: Workers exposed to potential arc flash hazards during maintenance or live working can rely on compliant clothing for thermal protection.

• Industrial Electrical Maintenance: Protects maintenance personnel who operate or maintain electrical switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers, and other high voltage equipment.

• Manufacturing of Protective Workwear: Guides producers of flame-resistant and arc-rated textiles and garments to design products meeting global safety benchmarks.

• Safety Program Development: Helps occupational health and safety managers implement effective PPE standards to reduce electrical arc injuries.

• Standards Harmonization: Facilitates international cooperation by aligning garment performance testing and classification, enabling cross-border acceptance of protective clothing.

Related Standards

• IEC 61482-1-1:2007: Defines the test method for determining arc thermal performance values (ATPV, EBT50) using an open arc test.

• IEC 61482-1-2:2007: Establishes the box test method for classifying arc protection levels by simulating constrained arc conditions.

• IEC 61318:2007: Addresses conformity assessment procedures for tools, devices, and equipment used in live working environments.

• IEC 61477: Outlines minimum requirements for the utilization of tools and equipment in live working, complementing PPE standards.

• ISO 3175-2: Provides protocols for professional care of textiles, including laundering and dry cleaning standards relevant to garment maintenance.

---

This standard plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and protection of electrical workers against thermal hazards of electric arcs by setting internationally recognized requirements for material resistance, garment design, and testing procedures. Adhering to IEC 61482-2:2009 helps organizations mitigate risks and comply with occupational safety regulations in sectors involving electrical live work.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 61482-2 ®
Edition 1.0 2009-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Live working – Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc –
Part 2: Requirements
Travaux sous tension – Vêtements de protection contre les dangers thermiques
d’un arc électrique –
Partie 2: Exigences
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IEC 61482-2 ®
Edition 1.0 2009-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Live working – Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc –
Part 2: Requirements
Travaux sous tension – Vêtements de protection contre les dangers thermiques
d’un arc électrique –
Partie 2: Exigences
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
S
CODE PRIX
ICS 13.220.40; 29.260 ISBN 978-2-88910-521-2
– 2 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.4

INTRODUCTION.6

1 Scope.7

2 Normative references .7

3 Terms and definitions .8

4 Requirements .10

4.1 General .10

4.2 Design requirements for protective clothing .10
4.3 General material requirements .11
4.3.1 Limited flame spread of material.11
4.3.2 Mechanical properties of woven outer material .11
4.3.3 Burst strength of knitted outer material .11
4.3.4 Dimensional change due to laundering and/or dry cleaning of outer
material .11
4.4 Arc thermal resistance requirements .12
4.5 Marking .12
4.6 Instructions for use.13
5 Tests .13
5.1 General .13
5.1.1 Test conditions .13
5.1.2 Pre-treatment - Laundering and/or dry cleaning .13
5.2 Tests of design requirements of the protective clothing .13
5.2.1 Garment construction and workmanship .13
5.2.2 Size designation and ergonomics .14
5.2.3 Ageing.14
5.2.4 Thread, accessories, closures .14
5.3 Tests of general material requirements.14
5.3.1 Limited flame spread of material.14
5.3.2 Mechanical properties of woven outer material .14
5.3.3 Burst strength of knitted outer material .15
5.3.4 Dimensional change due to laundering and/or dry cleaning of outer
material .15
5.4 Tests of arc thermal resistance requirements .15
5.4.1 Type tests .15
5.4.2 Alternative means to arc thermal resistance test to fulfil conformity
assessment of protective clothing having completed the production
phase .15
5.5 Marking .15
5.5.1 Visual inspection .15
5.5.2 Durability of marking.15
5.6 Instruction for use .15
6 Conformity assessment of protective clothing having completed the production
phase .16
Annex A (normative) Marking and instructions for use.17
Annex B (normative) Type tests .19
Annex C (normative) Classification of defects .20
Annex D (informative) Use and maintenance .21

61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 3 –
Bibliography.22

Table B.1 – List of type tests.19

Table C.1 – Classification of defects and associated requirements and tests .20

– 4 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION

____________
LIVE WORKING –
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AGAINST
THE THERMAL HAZARDS OF AN ELECTRIC ARC –

Part 2: Requirements
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
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indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.

International Standard IEC 61482-2 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 78: Live
Working.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
78/783/FDIS 78/797/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 5 –
A list of all parts of the IEC 61482 series, published under the general title Live working –
Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc, can be found on the IEC

website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until

the maintenance result date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in

the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be

• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or

• amended.
– 6 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
INTRODUCTION
This International Standard has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of

IEC 61477.
The products designed and manufactured according to this standard contribute to the safety

of the users, provided they are used by skilled persons, in accordance with safe methods of

work and the instructions for use.

The product covered by this standard may have an impact on the environment during some or

all stages of its life cycle. These impacts can range from slight to significant, be of short-term

or long-term, and occur at the global, regional or local level.
This standard does not include requirements and test provisions for the manufacturers of the
product, or recommendations to the users of the product for environmental improvement.
However, all parties intervening in its design, manufacture, packaging, distribution, use,
maintenance, repair, reuse, recovery and disposal are invited to take account of
environmental considerations.
61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 7 –
LIVE WORKING –
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AGAINST
THE THERMAL HAZARDS OF AN ELECTRIC ARC –

Part 2: Requirements
1 Scope
This part of IEC 61482 is applicable to protective clothing used in work if there is an electric
arc hazard.
This standard specifies requirements and test methods applicable to materials and garments
for protective clothing for electrical workers against the thermal hazards of an electric arc
based on
– relevant general properties of the textiles, tested with selected textile test methods, and
– arc thermal resistance properties, such as
• the arc rating of materials (ATPV or E ), when tested with an open electric arc
BT50
under defined laboratory conditions according to IEC 61482-1-1, or
• the arc protection class of materials and garments (Class 1 or Class 2), when tested
with a directed and constrained electric arc under defined laboratory conditions
according to IEC 61482-1-2.
Requirements of this standard do not address electric shock hazards. The present standard is
applicable in combination with standards covering such hazards.
NOTE 1 If conductive fibres are used in the construction of the garments the risk for electric shock hazard should
be considered.
This standard does not contain requirements for the protection of head, hands and feet.
NOTE 2 Requirements and tests to cover these hazards are under development.
Requirements of this standard do not cover the electric arc hazards of electric shock, noise,
UV emissions, pressure shrapnel, hot oil, the consequences of physical and mental shock and
the toxic influences.
NOTE 3 The standard is applicable in combination with standards covering such hazards.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition
of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
IEC 61318:2007, Live working – Conformity assessment applicable to tools, devices and
equipment
IEC 61477, Live working – Minimum requirements for the utilization of tools, devices and
equipment
– 8 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
IEC 61482-1-1, Live working – Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric

arc – Part 1-1: Test methods – Method 1 – Determination of the arc rating (ATPV or E ) of
BT50
)
flame resistant materials for clothing

IEC 61482-1-2:2007, Live working – Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an

electric arc – Part 1-2: Test methods – Method 2 – Determination of arc protection class of

material and clothing by using a constrained and directed arc (box test)

ISO 3175-2, Textiles – Professional care, drycleaning and wetcleaning of fabrics and
garments – Part 2: Procedure for testing performance when cleaning and finishing using
tetrachloroethene
ISO 3758, Textiles – Care labelling code using symbols
ISO 5077, Textiles – Determination of dimensional change in washing and drying
ISO 6330, Textiles – Domestic washing and drying procedures for textile testing
ISO 13688:1998, Protective clothing – General requirements
ISO 13934-1, Textiles – Tensile properties of fabrics – Part 1: Determination of maximum
force and elongation at maximum force using the strip method
ISO 13937-2, Textiles – Tear properties of fabrics – Part 2: Determination of tear force of
trouser-shaped test specimens (Single tear method)
ISO 13938-1, Textiles – Bursting properties of fabrics – Part 1: Hydraulic method for
determination of bursting strength and bursting distension
ISO 14116:2008, Protective clothing – Protection against heat and flame – Limited flame
spread materials, material assemblies and clothing
ISO 15025:2000, Protective clothing – Protection against heat and flame – Method of test for
limited flame spread
ISO 17493, Clothing and equipment for protection against heat – Test method for convective
heat resistance using a hot air circulating oven
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 61318 and the

following apply.
3.1
arc thermal performance value
ATPV
in arc testing, the incident energy on a material or a multilayer system of materials 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, without
breakopen
2 2 2 )
NOTE ATPV is expressed in kJ/m or kW·s/m (cal/cm ).
[Definition 3.1.4 of IEC 61482-1-1]
___________
1)
To be published.
2) 2 2 2 2
Correlation 1 cal/cm = 41,868 kJ/m ; 1 kJ/m = 0,023885 cal/cm .

61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 9 –
3.2
arc thermal protection
degree of thermal protection offered against electric arc under specific arc testing conditions

NOTE 1 For materials, the arc thermal performance is obtained from the measurement of the transmitted energy

and by evaluation of other thermal parameters (burning time, hole formation, melting).

NOTE 2 For garments, the arc thermal performance is obtained by evaluation of thermal parameters (burning

time, hole formation, melting) and of the functioning of fasteners and accessories.

[Definition 3.5 of IEC 61482-1-2:2007]

3.3
breakopen threshold energy
E
BT50
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 tested specimen to break open
2 2 2 )
NOTE The breakopen threshold energy is expressed in kJ/m or kW·s/m (cal/cm ).
[Definition 3.1.8 of IEC 61482-1-1, modified]
3.4
clothing
assembly of garments worn by workers
3.5
electric arc
self-maintained gas conduction for which most of the charge carriers are electrons supplied
by primary-electron emission
[IEV 121-13-12]
NOTE During live working, the electric arc is generated by gas ionisation arising from an unintentional electrical
conducting connection or breakdown between live parts or a live part and the earth path of an electrical installation
or an electrical device. During testing, the electric arc is initiated by the blowing of a fuse wire.
3.6
garment
single item of clothing which may consist of single or multiple layer(s)
3.7
material
fabric or other substances of which the garment is made, this may consist of single or multiple
layers
3.8
protective clothing
clothing which covers or replaces personal clothing and which is designed to provide
protection against one or more hazards
[Definition 3.4 of ISO 13688:1998]
___________
3) 2 2 2 2
Correlation 1 cal/cm = 41,868 kJ/m ; 1 kJ/m = 0,023885 cal/cm .

– 10 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
3.9
Stoll curve
curve of thermal energy and time produced from data on human tissue tolerance to heat and

used to predict the onset of second-degree burn injury

[Definition 3.29 of IEC 61482-1-2:2007]

3.10
test current
I ,
arc class
prospective short-circuit current of the electric test circuit (predicted current), characterising a

test class, r.m.s. value (symmetrical AC component)
NOTE Test current is expressed in A.
[Definition 3.30 of IEC 61482-1-2:2007]
4 Requirements
4.1 General
General requirements which are not specifically covered in this standard shall be in
accordance with ISO 13688.
4.2 Design requirements for protective clothing
The garment shall be designed in a way, that they do not influence or hinder the wearer
performing work.
Garments protecting the upper part of the body shall have long sleeves.
Fasteners of the garment shall be designed in a way that the opening function is still present
after being exposed to an accidental arc.
Thread, accessories and closures used in garment construction shall not contribute to the
severity of the injuries to the wearer in the event of a momentary electric arc and related
thermal exposure.
No exposed external metal shall be permitted in the clothing. If internal metal and/or melting
parts (e.g. fasteners, buttons, and accessories) are used they shall be covered to the inside
to avoid skin contact.
All parts of a garment shall be made of arc thermal resistant materials. In case different
materials are used e.g. for the front and back the exact information shall be given where the
weaker area is located (e.g. by means of a drawing of the garment including dimensions and
warning indication).
The front side of the garment and the complete sleeves (all around the arms and over the
complete length of the arms) of the garment (e.g. jackets) shall fulfil the same arc thermal
resistance requirements. If due to comfort requirements the garment is not produced of the
same materials in all areas then this shall be clearly stated in the instructions for use.
NOTE 1 These requirements are also valid for garments protecting the lower part of the body (e.g. trousers,
chaps, leggings).
Sewing thread utilized in the construction of garments shall be made of an inherently flame-
resistant fibre and shall not melt when tested at a temperature of 260 °C in accordance with

61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 11 –
ISO 17493. There are many seams in a garment that have no influence on protection, e.g.

hems, pocket seams, etc. The sewing thread there need not be flame resistant.

During its service life, protective clothing shall keep its arc thermal properties when cleaned

according to the instructions for use.

If a single manufacturer makes claims for a garment system as arc thermal protective

clothing, then this garment system shall be tested and shall fulfil the requirements of this

standard.
NOTE 2 If the user is wearing a garment system (e.g. jacket + shirt) from different manufacturers as arc thermal

protective clothing, then this garment system should be tested to determine how the system fulfils the requirements
of this standard.
4.3 General material requirements
4.3.1 Limited flame spread of material
4.3.1.1 Classification of limited flame spread index
All materials claiming compliance with this standard shall achieve a specified limited flame
spread index when tested in accordance with ISO 15025 Procedure A (see 5.3.1) and
classified according to ISO 14116.
4.3.1.2 Single layer material
If a single-layer material is used in the garment, this material shall fulfil the limited flame
spread index 3.
4.3.1.3 Multi-layer material
If a multi-layer material is used in the garment, the following requirements shall be fulfilled:
– all outer layer and innermost layer materials shall fulfil the limited flame spread index 3,
– all middle layers shall fulfil in minimum the flame spread index 1.
4.3.2 Mechanical properties of woven outer material
4.3.2.1 Tear resistance
The woven outer material shall have a tear resistance of at least 15 N (for weight higher than
2 2 2
220 g/m ) or at least 10 N (for weight within 150 g/m and 220 g/m ) in the machine and the
cross directions tested according to ISO 13937-2.

4.3.2.2 Tensile strength
The woven outer material shall have a tensile strength of at least 400 N (for weight higher
2 2 2
than 220 g/m ) or at least 250 N (for weight within 150 g/m and 220 g/m ) in the machine
and the cross directions tested according to ISO 13934-1.
4.3.3 Burst strength of knitted outer material
The knitted outer material shall have a burst strength of at least 200 kPa tested according to
ISO 13938-1.
4.3.4 Dimensional change due to laundering and/or dry cleaning of outer material
The woven outer material shall have a dimensional change according to ISO 5077 not
exceeding ± 3 % in the machine and the cross directions tested according to 5.3.4.

– 12 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
The knitted outer material shall have a dimensional change according to ISO 5077 not

exceeding ± 5 % tested according to 5.3.4.

4.4 Arc thermal resistance requirements

The protective clothing covered by this standard shall have certain resistance properties to

the thermal effects of an electric arc.

Two international test methods have been developed to provide information on the resistance

of clothing to the thermal effects of electric arcs. Each method gives different information.

To be in accordance with this standard, a product shall be evaluated by using IEC 61482-1-1
or/and IEC 61482-1-2. Depending on the needs, the users will specify for one test method or
the other.
NOTE 1 Depending of the characteristics of the network and equipment (e.g. medium voltage or low voltage,
available short-circuit current, protection characteristics) and the location on the network where the live working is
performed (e.g. close to the substation or not), the possible energy in the arc is different. The users should
evaluate the needs in term of thermal resistance to electric arc taking these elements into consideration.
Material test as well as garment test shall be performed.
For garment certification both the material and garment shall fulfil the requirements.
Previously certified materials do not require retesting for the garment certification.
When tested according to IEC 61482-1-1, the protective clothing made of the tested material
shall be assigned a corresponding ATPV of the material. A protective clothing will
demonstrate a minimum arc thermal resistance, if the ATPV is at least 167,5 kJ/m
(4 cal/cm ). The higher is the ATPV value, the better is the thermal resistance under higher
incident arc energy (higher current value, longer exposure time).
NOTE 2 The necessary ATPV is to be determined by risk analysis. Guidance for the appropriate selection of an
ATPV is provided in other separate standards, e.g. in IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E.
In case that no ATPV can be determined, the E shall be determined and assigned to the
BT50
tested material. The minimum E demonstrated by the material shall be at least
BT50
167.5 kJ/m (4 cal/cm²).
When tested according to IEC 61482-1-2, the protective clothing made of the tested material
shall be assigned a Class 1 or a Class 2 depending of the test conditions and the resulting arc
thermal protection. A protective clothing will demonstrate a minimum arc thermal protection, if
it passes the Class 1 test. A Class 2 indicates a higher arc thermal resistance.

NOTE 3 The classification of IEC 61482-1-2 does not intend to evaluate the resistance of protective clothing to
electric arcs having arc energies above 318 kJ ± 44 kJ.
If other material(s) are used for the back (rear or dorsum) they shall fulfil at least the require-
ments of Class 1 according to IEC 61482-1-2 or a minimum ATPV rating of 167,5 kJ/m
(4 cal/cm ) according to IEC 61482-1-1. The label of the garment shall reflect the lowest of
these ratings.
If a garment is made of different materials or different layers (e.g. only the front part of the
garment is made with more material-layers), then this shall be clearly stated in the
instructions for use.
4.5 Marking
Each garment for which compliance with this standard is claimed shall at least be marked with
information as outlined in Annex A.1. The marking shall meet the general requirements of
marking in ISO 13688.
61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 13 –
If a garment is made of different materials or different layers (e.g. only the front part of the

garment is made with more material-layers) the label of the garment shall indicate the lowest

of the arc ratings.
If a garment manufacturer claims protection by a garments system (e.g. jacket with shirt) the

marking shall make the correct use clear for the end user.

4.6 Instructions for use
Protective clothing according to this standard shall be supplied with the manufacturer’s written

instructions for use and care.

These instructions shall be prepared in accordance with the general provisions given in
IEC 61477 and ISO 13688, at least as outlined in A.2.
5 Tests
5.1 General
The present standard provides testing provisions to demonstrate compliance of the product
with the requirements of Clause 4. These testing provisions are primarily intended to be used
as type tests for validation of the design input. Where relevant, alternative means (calculation,
examination, tests, etc.), are specified within the test subclauses for the purpose of protective
clothing having completed the production phase.
A list of type tests with reference to corresponding subclauses is given in Table B.1 of
Annex B.
5.1.1 Test conditions
For the tests according to 5.3, the conditioning atmosphere shall be the temperature
(20 ± 2) °C and relative humidity (65 ± 5) % for 24 h.
5.1.2 Pre-treatment - Laundering and/or dry cleaning
For arc testing and flame testing of materials or garments (5.3.1 and 5.4.1) and for testing
according to 5.3.2.1, 5.3.2.2, 5.3.3 and 5.3.4, the specimen shall be washed five times in a
front-loading horizontal drum machine, using 1 g/l of detergent 3 in soft water and finally dried
in accordance with the procedures of ISO 6330. Washing shall be carried out by procedure 2A
(60° C ± 3° C) and drying by procedure E (tumble drying) unless otherwise specified in the
care labeling.
Products which are labelled as dry cleaning only shall be dry cleaned five times in accordance
with ISO 3175-2.
If washing is permitted as well as dry cleaning, then the specimen shall only be washed.
5.2 Tests of design requirements of the protective clothing
The compliance with the requirements of 4.2 shall be verified by visual inspection or other
appropriate means for validation.
5.2.1 Garment construction and workmanship
If applicable, the garment construction shall be inspected visually for the following design
properties:
– long sleeves,
– 14 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
– no outside metal parts,
– no uncovered internal metal and/or melting parts,

– all parts made of arc thermal resistance material,

– identical arc thermal resistance performance of front side and complete sleeves.

If the garment is made of different materials it shall be inspected if the instruction for use

clearly indicates the weaker area of the garment (drawing, warning indication).

5.2.2 Size designation and ergonomics

The conformity to size designation shall be checked by measurement. The conformity to

ergonomics (design appropriate to not hinder wearer performing work) shall be checked by
inspection when the appropriate size of clothing is donned by a wearer (human test person).
NOTE Procedures for checking of ergonomic features of protective clothing are described in Annex D of
ISO 11612.
5.2.3 Ageing
The test according to procedure A of ISO 15025 (see 5.3.1) shall also be made after the
maximum laundering and/or dry cleaning cycles indicated by the manufacturer in line with the
manufacturer’s instructions on the basis of standardized processes.
NOTE Manufacturer instructions typically indicate one or several of the various methods and processes of
ISO 6330, ISO 15797 or equivalent, as standardized processes for cleaning.
The test shall be considered as passed if the aged material keeps the same classification
index as determined under 5.3.1 with after pre-treatment according to 5.1.2.
5.2.4 Thread, accessories, closures
Sewing thread used for the outer- and/or innermost materials shall be tested according to
ISO 17493 with the temperature of 260 °C.
The opening and closing function of fasteners shall be tested by practical performance test.
5.3 Tests of general material requirements
5.3.1 Limited flame spread of material
The test shall be carried out with the number and arrangement of specimens according to
ISO 15025, Procedure A after pre-treatment according to 5.1.2. If the garment consists of
several layers, each material-layer shall be tested separately.

5.3.2 Mechanical properties of woven outer material
5.3.2.1 Tear resistance
The test shall be carried out with the number and arrangement of specimens according to
ISO 13937-2. If the garment consists of several layers, only the outer material shall be tested.
5.3.2.2 Tensile strength
For woven material the test shall be carried out with the number and arrangement of
specimens according to ISO 13934-1 (strip). If the garment consists of several layers only the
outer material shall be tested.

61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 15 –
5.3.3 Burst strength of knitted outer material

For knitted material the test shall be carried out with the number and arrangement of

specimens according to ISO 13938-1. If the garment consists of several layers only the outer

material shall be tested.
5.3.4 Dimensional change due to laundering and/or dry cleaning of outer material

The test procedure shall be carried out with the number and arrangement of specimens in

accordance with ISO 5077.
5.4 Tests of arc thermal resistance requirements

5.4.1 Type tests
At least one of the two possible standard tests according to 4.4 shall be performed.
• IEC 61482-1-1 (ATPV-test, both method A and method B)
Testing according to IEC 61482-1-1 provides the ATPV or E .
BT50
• IEC 61482-1-2 (box-test, both material box test method and garment box test method)
Testing according to IEC 61482-1-2 makes it possible to decide whether the requirements
of Class 1 or Class 2 are fulfilled.
5.4.2 Alternative means to arc thermal resistance test to fulfil conformity assessment
of protective clothing having completed the production phase
There is no real alternative test to the arc thermal resistance test (destructive test) after
completing the production phase for checking the conformity to the associated requirement.
Nevertheless the garment manufacturer shall prove that he has followed the same
documented assembly procedure with identical components (materials and accessories) as
per the type tested garment. The material manufacturer shall prove that he has followed the
same documented manufacturing process as per the type tested material.
5.5 Marking
5.5.1 Visual inspection
It shall be checked by visual inspection whether the requirements of 4.5 are fulfilled.
5.5.2 Durability of marking
The marking shall be rubbed for 15 s with a lint-free cloth soaked with water and then be
rubbed for 15 s with a lint-free cloth soaked with isopropanol (CH -CH(OH)-CH ).
3 3
NOTE It is the duty of an employer to ensure that the relevant legislation and safety requirements for the use of
this chemical are complied with in their entirety.
The test shall be considered as passed if the marking is still easily legible and the label has
not curled or become detached
5.6 Instruction for use
It shall be checked by visual inspection whether the requirements of 4.6 are fulfilled.

– 16 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
6 Conformity assessment of protective clothing having completed the

production phase
For conducting the conformity assessment during the production phase, IEC 61318 shall be

used in conjunction with the present standard.

Annex C provides the classification of defects and identifies the associated tests applicable

for follow-up of production of protective clothing intended to comply with this standard.

61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 17 –
Annex A
(normative)
Marking and instructions for use

A.1 Marking
Each garment complying with this standard shall have a marking label which shall contain at

least the following items of marking:

– name, trade mark or other means of identification of the manufacturer or of its authorised
representative;
– designation of the product type, commercial name or code;
– size designation according to Clause 6 of ISO 13688;
– symbol IEC-60417-5216 (2002-10) – Suitable for live working; double triangle – and,
adjacent to the symbol, the number of the relevant IEC standard (IEC 61482-2) and the
level of arc protection;
NOTE The exact ratio of the height of the figure to the base of the triangle is 1,43. For the purpose of
convenience, this ratio can be between the values of 1,4 and 1,5.

IEC 61482-2
ATPV or E = xxx cal/cm
BT50
or
Class 1 or Class 2
or
IEC 61482-2
ATPV or E = xxx cal/cm
BT50
and
Class 1 or Class 2
– care labelling in accordance with ISO 3758.
A.2 Instructions for use
Protective clothing shall be supplied to the customer with information written at least in the
official language(s) of the country of destination. All information shall be unambiguous. It shall
include at least the following:
– name and full address of the manufacturer and/or authorized representative;
– product designation;
– 18 – 61482-2 © IEC:2009
– number of the relevant IEC standard with the year of publication (four digits), (IEC 61482-

2:2009);
– pictograms, information and explanation about the type of arc test (ATPV/E or box test
BT50
classification or both);
– information to the user that

• the environmental conditions and the risks at the working site shall be regarded;

• deviations from the parameters in this standard may result in more severe conditions;

– information to the user
• about the protective level of all garments of protective clothing;

• if the garment is made of different materials (see 4.2), by means of a drawing of the
garment including dimensions and warning indication;
• that for full body protection, the protective clothing shall be worn in the closed state
and other suitable protective equipment (helmet with protective face screen, protective
gloves and footwear (boots)) shall be used;
• that no garments such as shirts, undergarments or underwear should be used which
melt under arc exposures, made of e.g. polyamide, polyester or acryl fibres;
– care instructions in accordance with ISO 3758;
– cleaning and repair instructions (e.g. warning: tears should not be repaired by user; a
flammable (not flameproof) thread or heat-reactivatable piece likely to melt would be very
dangerous in the event of exposure to flame);
– information on sizing.
61482-2 © IEC:2009 – 19 –
Annex B
(normative)
Type tests
Table B.1 – List of type tests

Subclauses
Type of tests
Requirements Tests
Tests on materials
Limited flame spread (classification 4.3.1.1 5.3.1
of the materials)
Ageing (of the garment)
4.2 5.2.3
Mechanical properties
Tear resistance 4.3.2.1 5.3.2.1
Tensile strength 4.3.2.2 5.3.2.2
Burst strength 4.3.3 5.3.3
Dimensional change 4.3.4 5.3.4
Arc thermal resistance 4.4 5.4.1
(ATPV test method A or Material box
test)
Tests on garments
Design
4.2 5.2
Garment construction and
workmanship 5.2.1
Size designation and ergonomics 5.2.2
Thread, accessories, closures 5.2.4
Limited flame spread (verification of 4.3.1.2 5.2.1
the correct classification of the 4.3.1.3
different layers)
Arc thermal resistance 4.4 5.4.1
(ATPV test method B or Garment box
test)
Marking 4.5 5.5
General requirements of ISO 13688 5.5.1
Presence and correctness of the
specif
...