What must be done when arc-rated garments are contaminated or damaged to impair protective qualities?

When arc-rated garments become contaminated or damaged to the point that their protective qualities are impaired, it is essential to discard them immediately. This is critical because arc-rated clothing is designed to protect workers against the hazards of electrical arcs and thermal events. Any contamination or damage could significantly reduce the garment’s effectiveness in protecting the wearer from potential injury, which can result in severe consequences in the event of an arc flash or arc blast.

Continuing to use contaminated or damaged garments with caution compromises safety and goes against the precautions outlined in NFPA 70E. Attempting to repair such garments or marking them as out of service without properly discarding them can lead to dangerous situations, as those garments may still be relied upon for protection. Therefore, the correct approach is to ensure any compromised arc-rated garments are discarded to maintain workplace safety and compliance with established safety standards.