Arc Protection Hood – HRC 4 (47.0 cal/cm²)

This Arc Protection Hood HRC 4 (47.0 cal/cm²) is designed for use by electric professionals who are at the greatest risk of arc flash. When the levels of incident energy exceed the categories of personal protective equipment, this particular product is useful in providing protection from the high thermal energy released in arc flashes.

The integration of the hard hat and true colour visor ensures that safety does not come at the expense of visibility or usability.

The standard gives safety professionals a justifiable approach to the selection of personal protective equipment, consistent with risk assessments for arc flash. For the engineer, the standard provides a high level of protection that can be worn through complex electrical work.

Key Specifications

• Arc Rating (ATPV): 47.0 cal/cm²

• Hazard Risk Category: HRC 4

• Standards Tested: ASTM F2178, IEC 61482‑1‑1, CSA Z462, OSHA 1910.269

• Protection Coverage: Head, face, neck and shoulders

• Visor: Arc‑rated true‑colour face shield with minimal distortion

• Helmet: Integrated hard hat with secure mounting

• Fabric Construction: Double‑layer anti‑static cotton, 350 g/m² per layer

• Size: Universal / one size fits most

• Approval: Suitable for live electrical working

Applications & Suitability

This arc flash hood is intended for environments where arc flash incident energy levels demand the highest category of PPE, including:

• Electrical substations and switching rooms

• HV and LV switchgear operation and maintenance

• Panel racking and de‑racking activities

• Electrical testing and fault‑finding near live parts

• Industrial power distribution and utilities

It is particularly suited to tasks identified through arc flash risk assessments as exceeding lower PPE categories, helping organisations meet their duty of care obligations.

Standards & Compliance Explained

This hood has been tested to internationally recognised arc flash standards used by electrical safety professionals worldwide:

• ASTM F2178 (ATPV Testing): Confirms a protection level of 47.0 cal/cm², indicating the incident energy level at which second‑degree burn onset is predicted.

• IEC 61482‑1‑1: International arc flash test method recognised across Europe and the UK.

• CSA Z462 / OSHA 1910.269: Widely referenced arc flash safety standards supporting compliant PPE selection.

An ATPV of 47.0 cal/cm² provides a margin of protection beyond the commonly referenced 40 cal/cm² HRC 4 threshold, supporting robust PPE justification following formal arc flash hazard analysis.

Compatibility & System Use Guidance

The Arc Protection Hood is designed to integrate seamlessly into a complete arc flash PPE system:

• Integrated hard hat removes the need for separate helmet compatibility checks

• Intended to be worn with arc‑rated jackets, trousers and gloves of equal or higher ATPV

• True‑colour visor supports safe identification of conductors, indicators and labels

For best practice, the hood should be used alongside documented Lockout Tagout procedures, risk assessments, and permit‑to‑work systems, where applicable.

Comfort & Usability Benefits

• True‑Colour Visor: Preserves accurate colour recognition critical for electrical safety

• Balanced Design: Integrated helmet helps distribute weight evenly

• Anti‑Static Fabric: Reduces static build‑up in dry environments

• Universal Fit: Accommodates a wide range of users without adjustment complexity

These features encourage correct and consistent use, even during extended working periods.

Care, Maintenance & Inspection

To maintain protective performance:

• Inspect before each use for visor damage, fabric wear or contamination

• Clean in accordance with manufacturer instructions; avoid harsh chemicals

• Store in a clean, dry environment away from direct sunlight

• Remove from service immediately if exposed to an arc flash incident

Regular inspection and controlled storage are essential to preserving arc‑rated performance.

Product Summary – Confidence for UK Electrical Safety

The HRC 4 Arc Protection Hood from Reece Safety provides effective protection from high-energy arc flashes. It is safe for live working and complies with international standards. This product will ensure conformity to UK electrical safety standards when used in accordance with an arc-flash network study.

It is a sensible and legitimate option for those concerned with protecting their employees from potential dangers associated with electricity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this hood suitable for HRC 4 arc flash risks?

Yes. With an ATPV of 47.0 cal/cm², it exceeds the standard HRC 4 protection threshold.

Can this hood be used for live electrical work?

Yes. It is approved for live working when used within a safe system of work and risk assessment.

What does 47.0 cal/cm² mean in practice?

It represents the level of arc energy the hood can withstand before predicted second‑degree burn injury.

Does the visor distort vision or colour?

No. The true‑colour visor maintains accurate colour perception for safer working.

What other PPE should this hood be used with?

It should be paired with arc‑rated clothing, gloves and footwear rated to an equivalent or higher ATPV.