ExoFit XP Arc Flash Harnesses from DBI-SALA

For utility and other electrical workers, arc flashes are a common hazard of the job. In order to best protect yourself, you need equipment that is designed and tested to provide the greatest safety in these dangerous work environments. DBI-SALA has developed many products to meet ASTM F887-04 standards for the electrical and high-heat environmental safety.

For more arc flash fall protection, please see our Arc Flash Lanyards page.

The ASTM F887-04 Standard Specification for Personal Climbing Equipment outlines testing criteria to meet the specific needs of fall protection for electrical and welding workers. This specification covers accepted testing of harnesses used by workers in the climbing of poles, trees, towers, and other structures.

The ASTM standard covers the performance criteria of harnesses for arc flash resistance for harnesses worn by workers who may be exposed to thermal hazards of momentary electric arcs or flame. One criteria of the standard is that the webbing material must have a 7000 lb tensile strength which is higher than most standard harness webbings on the market. The harnesses also need to pass the Electric Arc Performance criteria, which require being exposed to an electric arc and having an afterflame time of less than 5 seconds and no melting or dripping of the tested object.

After the arc testing, a drop test per ANSI Z359.1 must be performed to check the integrity of the harness. Only after all this testing is completed, can it be labeled as meeting the ASTM F887-04 standard.

The Electric Arc testing is performed at Kinectrics in Toronto, ON. Kinectrics is a third-party laboratory specifically designed for servicing the energy sector. In addition to harnesses, they test all types of personal protection equipment and clothing for the utility industry.