The heat energy which results from an electrical arc flash comprises of both convective and radiant heat (the latter being electromagnetic in nature)

Additional requirements need to be considered as the electromagnetic radiation emitted by an arc flash can, in part, pass through a face shield or hood window. Visible light is also electromagnetic radiation, and the wearer needs to be able to see through a face shield or window. It is essential that whilst the face shield or window must withstand the heat and the electromagnetic radiation, protecting the eyes & skin behind. It must, at the same time, allow the wearer to look through it without stress to the eyes.

In Europe all eye & face protectors, including those designed to protect against electrical arc flash, must be tested to EN 166 for optical and mechanical properties. Furthermore eye & face protectors protecting against an arc flash shall filter a “well defined” proportion of UV radiation generated by an arc flash. EN 170 describes the test methods with respect to such UV protection.

Finally, complete eye & face protective devices need to be tested to ascertain their “resistance” to electrical arc flashes.

GS-ET-29 is an Arc-In-Box testing is very similar to IEC 61482-1-2 but with a sensor assembled test head.

ASTM F2178 is the Open-Arc pendant to IEC 61482-1-1, again with a sensor assembled test head.

Where a device also consists of textile components (e.g. chin protector, shroud, hood, etc.) the fabric must fulfil the fabric requirements as per IEC 61482-2.