In addition to other requirements, head protection must meet arc flash protective head protection requirements.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only for helmets with visors
• D. Only when working above 50V

Answer: (A)

Arc flash protection applies to headgear just as it does to other PPE. A hard hat that only meets impact and basic electrical protection may keep you from a physical injury or electric shock, but an arc flash can unleash intense heat and pressure that can burn or injure the head even through a non–visored helmet. For electrical work, the head protection chosen must be arc-rated to withstand the specific incident energy the task presents. That means selecting a helmet or face shield system with an arc rating appropriate to the hazard, independent of voltage alone.

This is why the statement is true: head protection must meet arc flash protective requirements in addition to the standard helmet requirements. The requirement isn’t limited to helmets with visors, nor is it restricted to tasks above a certain voltage like 50V—the arc flash hazard can exist at various voltages, and arc-rated protection is needed whenever there is a potential arc event.