What does the term 'arc rating' refer to?

The term 'arc rating' refers specifically to the maximum incident energy that a material can withstand before it fails or breaks down. This rating is crucial for determining the level of protection provided by personal protective equipment (PPE), such as flame-resistant clothing, when exposed to arc flash incidents. The arc rating indicates how well a material can protect a person from the thermal energy released during an arc flash, which can result in severe burns or injuries. Understanding arc ratings helps electricians and safety professionals to assess risks properly and select the appropriate protective gear to ensure safety in environments where electrical work is performed.