What type of clothing is effective in reducing injury and burns during an electrical arc or flash?

Fire retardant clothing is specifically designed to resist ignition and self-extinguish when exposed to flames or high temperatures, making it highly effective in reducing injuries and burns during electrical arcs or flashes. This type of fabric is treated with chemical compounds that provide a barrier against heat and flames, significantly increasing safety for workers in environments where there is a risk of electrical hazards.

While other materials like cotton, leather, and wool have varying degrees of safety properties, they do not offer the same level of protection as fire retardant clothing. Cotton can catch fire and continue burning, leather might not withstand high heat for prolonged periods, and wool, although inherently more resistant to flames than cotton, does not provide the specialized protective features of fire retardant materials. Therefore, choosing fire retardant clothing is crucial for minimizing the risks of severe burns and injuries in the electrical field.