What is the primary purpose of an arc flash glove?

The primary purpose of an arc flash glove is to protect against burns from electrical arcs. Arc flash incidents can occur when there is a fault in an electrical system, leading to a rapid release of energy, which can cause extremely high temperatures and intense light. This can result in severe burns if a person's skin is exposed during such an event.

Arc flash gloves are specifically designed to withstand these conditions by using materials that insulate against the heat and flash of an electrical arc, thereby providing crucial protection to the wearer’s hands. They play a vital role in a comprehensive safety strategy for individuals working on or near energized equipment.

While some gloves may offer additional protection against various risks, such as cuts or mechanical impacts, the distinctive feature of arc flash gloves lies in their ability to mitigate the severe hazards presented by electrical arcs, which is reflected in their design and the materials used.