Arc-rated foul weather protection

In November 2015, meetings between SSEN’s senior training staff and engineers and Associates from Gore & Associates (UK), set out the crucial importance of fit-for-purpose PPE garments, which must be capable of drying quickly when engineers work several consecutive days, as well as being waterproof, windproof, flexible and light.

When working with electrical systems with risk of exposure to an incident involving a high temperature arc flash, engineers must be protected. Such incidents are rare but companies increasingly choose to procure protective workwear with arc retardant properties.

Protection & ergonomics

Existing PPE in this sector satisfactorily meets health and safety requirements but is often heavy to wear once wet, with a long drying-out time. Working up poles demands garment flexibility as dexterity is needed. So the correct balance of protection and ergonomics is essential for SSEN’s engineers. Hiking across fields and over stiles and fences means clothes must be robust for all-round protection.

Brand partner Bell Apparel worked with GORE to develop garments using GORE-TEX PYRAD Technology, which are said to be up to 45% lighter than other models. Arc rated, durable and breathable, they were successfully waterproof tested in Gore’s Rain Tower. Garments were then issued to a group of SSEN engineers, whose feedback was crucial in understanding the experience of end users.

Field testing

In February 2016 engineers undertaking the most challenging jobs began the test, with feedback in March and August. From February to July 2016 the SSEN test team completed feedback forms weekly. Covering weather conditions, comfort, flexibility and wearing weight, they also assessed drying properties. They worked in cold, wet, windy conditions undertaking a range of challenging tasks.

All feedback showed that the garment was appropriate for the climate and task in hand – neither too hot nor cold. One quarter of respondants found jackets very soft and very flexible, with three-quarters stating soft and flexible. Drying time ranged from 50% dry within a few hours, 25% dry by the next day and 25% dry by the next use.

Feedback

In August 2016, further feedback was obtained from engineers working for SSEN in remote parts of Scotland. 

Linesman Angus Campbell described how much lighter his new GORE-TEX PYRAD Jacket felt: “This summer I’ve been climbing a great deal - it’s flexible when working on top of the pole. You can move freely, giving less strain on my shoulders and no issue to reach and stretch for up to 2 hours whilst on a pole.” 

Brian Anderson, linesman in Shetland noted: “The material is good, breathable and doesn’t make you sweat. The new garment has excellent stretch and freedom of movement.”

Ian Crawley, operational safety manager at SSEN, comments: “Our engineers deserve nothing less than the best, and it is vital that our PPE is safe, comfortable and able to withstand a wide range of weather conditions. This new range allows them to operate safely within challenging environments and focus on the job at hand, helping us to continue to provide our customers with the best service possible.”