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Westex and PES: Leading the Charge in Arc Flash Safety with New OSHA Guidelines

## A Legacy of Protecting Lives Did you know that until recent updates to OSHA guidance, over 600,000 workers did not have proper PPE or equipment to prevent injury from deadly arc flash hazards despite industry standards? This chilling statistic underscores the critical need for advancements in safety measures and protective equipment.

For over 83 years, Westex has been at the forefront of safety innovation, starting with flame-resistant insulation for Allied bombers during World War II. Today, we continue to lead in protecting workers from various hazards, including arc flash incidents, by staying ahead of safety standards and technological advancements.

As a PPE manager, you understand the critical importance of selecting the right materials to safeguard your workforce. Westex leads the industry in protecting workers from arc flash hazards through advanced technology and unwavering dedication to safety.

Westex is a proud member of the Partnership for Electrical Safety (PES), an organization dedicated to ensuring equal protection for all electrical workers against arc flash hazards. PES has played a crucial role in advocating for enhanced safety measures, including the recent updates to OSHA’s Arc Flash Protection guidelines.

**### Recent OSHA Updates: **

In November 2024, OSHA released updated guidance to help employers and employees better understand and mitigate arc flash hazards. These updates are designed to enhance workplace safety and provide comprehensive protection for electrical workers.

The new OSHA guidance includes several key points aimed at improving safety for electrical workers:

**##### Enhanced PPE Requirements: ** Emphasizes the use of arc-rated (AR) clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect against arc flash hazards. This includes specific guidelines on the types of PPE required for different levels of exposure.

**##### Clarification on De-energized Work: ** Stresses that de-energized work is not the same as Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) or Electrically Safe Work Condition (ESWC). It requires an energized work permit and appropriate PPE.

**##### Low Voltage Hazards: ** Highlights the dangers of low voltage (120/208, 277, etc.) work, debunking the myth that low voltage is not hazardous. It mandates the use of PPE even for low voltage tasks.

**##### Administrative Controls: ** Recommends administrative controls to prevent arc flash incidents, such as proper training, hazard identification, and assessment.

##### Worker Participation: Encourages active participation from workers in safety programs to identify and mitigate arc flash hazards.

#### For more detailed information, you can refer to the full OSHA documents linked below:

• Protecting Employees from Electric-Arc Flash Hazards
• Common Electrical Work Myths
• Establishing Boundaries Around Arc Flash Hazards
• Being Aware of Arc Flash Hazards

### Reliable Protection for Your Workforce Westex understands the importance of adhering to these updated safety standards. FR fabric is your last line of defense, and with hundreds of different fabrics in the market, you want to be sure that you are choosing a fabric from a reputable company that you can count on. By choosing Westex, you ensure your team is protected by the most advanced and reliable safety fabrics available.

The intense energy and very short duration of an electric arc represent a unique exposure, requiring flame-resistant garments durable enough to withstand temperatures approaching 35,000°F. Unlike regular cotton or poly/cotton work clothes that can continue burning even after the ignition source is removed, Westex brand arc flash protection fabrics will self-extinguish and provide guaranteed flame resistance for the life of the garment.

Through advanced technology and rigorous testing, Westex ensures our protective clothing complies with the latest guidelines and standards while offering comfort and durability for everyday use. Our goal is to provide electrical workers with peace of mind, knowing they are safeguarded by products backed by decades of research and expertise.

Our arc flash protection fabrics not only meet key safety standards but also prioritize wearer comfort. Designed to be lighter, softer, and moisture-wicking, our Westex DH Air fabric exemplifies this commitment. This innovative fabric ensures that workers stay cool and dry even in demanding environments, making it an ideal choice for those who value both protection and comfort.

## Together, We Can Make a Difference At Westex, we believe collaboration is key to creating a safer work environment for everyone. By partnering with organizations like PES, we aim to better protect every electrical worker and reduce arc flash injuries and fatalities.

Join us in our mission to safeguard lives and ensure a safer future for all. Contact us today to learn more about our FR/AR fabrics and how we can help protect your workforce.