The art of arc protection

The risk posed by electricity on the rail network is made clear by Network Rail’s Life Saving Rules.

Three rules deal specifically with electricity: never assume equipment is isolated – always test before touch, always test before applying earths or straps and always be sure the required plans and permits are in place before you start a job or go on, or near, the line.

The consequences of not following these steps when working around 25 kV overhead lines is obvious. But even when all the rules are followed, accidents can occur. Equipment failure is another real risk.

The majority of orange fire resistance (FR) workwear being used on the rail network today does not comply with the relevant high visibility standard, even though they include silver reflective tape in the EN configuration. Most flat orange garments are manufactured using an FR treatment, which is not permanent, meaning the wearer has no way of knowing how flame retardant their clothing continues to be.

Two new products

For the past three years, Worcestershire-based Praybourne has been developing two new products – a Class 3 Combat Coverall and Class 2 Combat Trouser.

Both the Combat Coverall and Combat Trouser are flame retardant, anti- static and electric arc protective. But unlike many other brands, wearers can be confident that Pulsarail clothing will always protect them from potential workplace hazards.

Using a patented Protex multi-fibre blend – Protal 5, the range has a 16 Cal/ cm2 ATPV rating, virtually double the performance of the next market-leading fabric. Combined with the Xcelcius Electric Arc Base Layers, the level of protection increases to 42.6 Cal/cm2.

Some of the benefits of Protal 5 include excellent breathability and wicking properties, as well as an enhanced electric arc performance because of its ability to shed the metal electrodes from an arc blast. When welding, it sheds sparks and molten metal, extending the life expectancy of the coverall.

On top of its safety credentials, the Combat Coverall has been designed with the wearer in mind. The coverall includes breast, combat and rear pockets, an elasticated waist and adjustable cuffs. The triple stitched inside leg, front and rear rise seams, and five extra crotch bar tacks reduces the risk of splitting.

Other features include non- conductive plastic studded wrap around cuffs, a front storm flap – which conceals a two-way plastic zip, internal knee pad pockets and double stitched FR reflective tape in the chevron design.

The Combat Trouser has all the same attributes as the Combat Coverall but with a slightly elasticated waistband with triple press stud fastening and zip fly.

To be worn in conjunction with the Pulsar FR Combat Trouser, the Pulsar FR high-visibility orange Class 3, GO/ RT 3279, flame retardant polo shirt incorporates 3M Scotchlite thermally- applied reflective tape, FR collar and cuffs, and concealed three button placket.

If it gets a little chilly, then why not layer up with the Pulsar FR high visibility orange Class 3, GO/RT 3279, flame retardant sweatshirt. Again, both garments are manufactured using a Protal blend of FR fibres to guarantee the highest level of performance without compromising on comfort or fit.

The Xcelcius Electric Arc Base Layers are manufactured from a knitted Protal – blend and comply with EN11612 (FR), EN1149 (AST) and IEC61482 (Arc) standards. Both top and bottoms have a 9.2 Cal/cm2 ATPV rating. When worn in conjunction with the double- layer balaclava, it ensures maximum next-to-skin protection. All styles incorporate red contrast FR thread and are presented in a sporty design for optimum fit and comfort.

Find your nearest stockist by visiting www.praybourne.co.uk/stockists or for further information on the range contact Praybourne directly on 0844 6691860 or e-mail: enquiries@ praybourne.co.uk