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What is HRC and TPP?
HRC is changing to Arc Rated Category (CAT)
HRC is an abbreviation for Hazard/Risk Category as determined by the
ATPV (Arc Thermal Protective Values) or the amount of energy from an
Electric Arc a fabric will resist. The change to Arc Rated Category is to
remove the “risk”, and define the actual arc protection as “risk” to a worker is
more a function of multiple factors that require a risk assessment or model.
This standard does not address hydrocarbon flash fire peril. HRC is going to
Arc rated Category as defined as follows:

Arc CAT ATPV Protection
CAT 1 Min. 4 calories/cm²
CAT 2 Min. 8 calories/cm²
CAT 3 Min. 25 calories/cm²
CAT 4 Min .40 calories/cm²

Over the next year you will see a transition of labelling on FR garments from
HRC to CAT (Arc Rating ATPV). HRC/CAT has a relationship with Hydrocar-
Test Methods bon Flash Fire protection in that materials of cotton or inherent FR (Nomex)
generally will meet the TPP requirements of hydrocarbon Flash Fire protec-
ASTM D6413 tion when meeting HRC/CAT 2 or greater. However, HRC/CAT 2 cannot be
The USA Testing Method and requirement for determining a fabric’s attained with polymer film fabrics like PVC which will fail Hydrocarbon Flash
requirements. When selecting Hydrocarbon Flash Fire garments focus on
resistance to ignition and ability to self-extinguish when exposed to an open the TPP values versus the HRC/CAT level.
flame.
CAN/CGSB 4.2 No. 27.10 TPP
The Canadian Testing Method and requirement for determining a fabric’s Thermal Protective Performance of a fabric tested with radiant and convec-
tive energy to determine the total energy required to simulate a 2nd degree
resistance to ignition and ability to self-extinguish when exposed to an open burn injury. The minimum requirement for a fabric used in a CGSB 155.20
flame.
garment is 6.0.
ISO 17493/ASTM F2894-12b TPP in relation to CGSB155.20.2000
A testing method and requirement for determining a fabric’s ability to resist It is not enough that a fabric may have a TPP value of 6.0+; in order to meet
ignition, melting, or shrinkage in ambient temperatures at 260°C for 5 the standard of CGSB 155.20, and provide the required amount of hydrocar-
minutes.
bon flash protection to a user, the whole garment must comply with the
ASTM F1930 CGSB 155.20 standard. Be careful about claims of “Fabric meets CGSB
A testing method using a manikin with a finished garment and using a heat 155.20, or has a TPP value of 6.0+”.
flux of 2 cal/cm² over an exposure time of 3 seconds to determine the
predicted second and third degree burn area. This test method duplicates a CAT/HRC is only used for electric arc, so a
hydrocarbon flash fire incident, and predicts the garment’s protection high CAT/HRC rating does not automatically
against 2nd and 3rd degree burns.
imply that it will offer any hydrocarbon
Codes/Guides flash fire protection. Depending on the
OSHA 1910.269 material used, a high CAT/HRC garment
This is a code or guide comprised of the operational and maintenance of may provide some inherent TPP value but
electric power generation, control, transformation, transmission and unless stated, do not assume TPP rating.
distribution lines, and equipment. OSHA standard CFR1910.269 has brought
many occupational safety principles for the protection of all the workers
working in workpaces where there is always risk of injuries due to electric
shocks or fire burns. Hydrocarbon Flash and Electric Arc
The correct standards for Hydrocarbon Flash Fire and Electric Arc
NFPA 70E-2015 protective clothing are:
Both of these code or guide are for electrical safety in the workplace,
composed of procedures, policies, and guidelines. NFPA 70E, NFPA 2112-2012, CGSB 155.20-2000
CGSB 155.22-2014, and ASTM F1506
Each of these standards has stringent requirements for compliance, lot
traceability, and independent testing. Manufacturers making any claims of
compliance to these standards should be able to provide extensive testing
reports in original state and after 50 washing cycles.
Limitations
Under each of the above standards, there is a requirement that each
garment has a clear label that outlines the limitations, and use of the
garment for applications. All Viking garments with claims of “basic” FR will
®
be labelled as follows:
Attention
This garment has been tested in accordance with the test method
CAN/CGSB-4.2 No.27.10 & ASTM D6413 Flame Resistance, Self Extinguishing
for Momentary Contact with Open Flame.
In contact with flame, this garment will resist ignition, and / or
self-extinguish.The intended use of the garment is for protection from liquids
including water, oil, light acids and caustics. This garment also provides wind
resistance and acts as a thermal layer against harsh elements, while providing
increased visibility of the wearer.This garment is not intended as protection
from hydrocarbon flash fires, electric arc hazards, or welding sparks.
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