Working near powerlines is always high-risk and when bad weather hits, the hazards multiply. From rain and lightning to snow and wind, stormy conditions can turn an already dangerous job into a life-threatening one. That’s why electrical crews need PPE that’s not just compliant, but built to perform in extreme weather.
At Dukel, we specialize in outfitting utility workers, linemen, and electricians with PPE that meets NFPA 70E, OSHA 29 CFR 1910, and real-world storm protection standards.
Why Electrical Work Gets Riskier in Storms
Harsh weather introduces multiple threats:
- Moisture increases electrical conductivity, heightening arc flash danger.
- Wind and rain reduce visibility and make tool handling more difficult.
- Lightning risks grow — especially when working at elevation.
- Wet clothing can become heavy and restrict movement.
That’s why the right PPE must do double duty: defend against arc flash and hold up in rain, wind, and cold.
1. Arc-Rated Flame-Resistant Layers
In storm conditions, your base layers and outerwear must be FR and arc-rated — standard cotton absorbs moisture and offers zero thermal protection.
Top FR Layering Options:
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Ariat FR DuraStretch Hoodie – CAT 2, 21.2 cal/cm²
Ariat - Mens FR DuraStretch Full Zip Hoodie -
DRIFIRE Hi-Vis Rain Jacket – CAT 3, ANSI Class 3
Drifire Hydroflash Hi Vis FR/AR Rain Jacket -
Bulwark FR Insulated Bomber Jacket – CAT 3
Bulwark - Men's Heavyweight FR Insulated Bomber Jacket -
Blaklader FR Henley Shirt – 9.1 cal/cm², CAT 2
BlakLader -FR Henley Shirt - 9.1 cal, CAT 2
Pro Tip: Layer for insulation, waterproofing, and arc protection — base, mid, and outerwear all matter.
2. Electrical-Grade Gloves with Protection
When working with energized lines, rubber voltage-rated gloves are mandatory — always pair with leather protectors.
Recommended Gloves:
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Class 2 Glove Kit (Rubber + Leather)
Rubber Voltage Glove Kit - Class 2 Voltage Rated Enespro ArcGuard -
Class 0 Rubber Glove Kit – 1,000V Rated
Rubber Voltage Glove Kit - Class 0 Voltage Rated - Arc Guard -
Kunz Cowhide Leather Protectors
Kunz Cowhide Leather Drivers Glove Shirred, Arc/Puncture/Cut
OSHA 1910.137 requires regular voltage glove testing.
3. Type II, Class E Hard Hats
Your hard hat needs to protect against electrical shock, falling objects, and side impact — all in tough weather.
Top Storm-Ready Helmets:
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HexArmor Ceros® XT400E Full Brim – Class E
HexArmor - Class E Type II Full Brim Safety Helmet - Ceros® XT400E -
Zero Pinnacle Exo Helmet – Arc + Molten Metal Rated
Zero Pinnacle Exo Chinstrap Helmet - Voltage & Molten Metal Protection -
Pyramex Ridgeline XR7 (Pack of 6)
Ridgeline XR7 Hard Hats with Chin Strap (PK 6 Helmets) - Pyramex
Look for helmets with built-in rain channels and chin straps.
4. Eye & Face Protection for Arc Flash + Weather
In driving rain or high winds, fogged-up or unsecured eye protection can be deadly. Use anti-fog, impact-rated, and arc-rated face gear when applicable.
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Top Picks:
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HexArmor VS250 Anti-Fog Safety Glasses
HexArmor - Safety Glasses - VS250 TruShield® (1 Pair) -
12 Cal Hover XTR Arc Flash Face Shield Kit
12 Cal Hover XTR Series Arc Flash Face Shield Kits - Enespro -
Lift Front Hood with Arc-Rated Faceshield
FR & Arc Flash Resistant Lift Front Hood with Faceshield
Use sealed goggles in driving rain to prevent moisture from entering.
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HexArmor VS250 Anti-Fog Safety Glasses
5. Arc-Rated Rain Gear
Regular rain jackets can ignite or melt during arc flash exposure. Only wear outerwear that's both waterproof and FR-rated.
Storm-Proof Picks:
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Drifire Hydroflash FR/AR Rain Suit
Drifire Hydroflash FR/AR Rain Suit
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Blaklader Hi-Vis Shell Jacket – 32 cal/cm², CAT 3
Blaklader - Multinorm Yellow Hi-Viz/Navy Blue Shell Jacket - 32 cal/cm -
Drifire Arc H2O FR Hi-Vis Rain Jacket
Drifire Arc H2O Hi Vis FR/AR Rain Jacket
Add FR rain pants and reflective stripes for visibility and full-body protection.
Built for the Storm
Electrical hazards don’t pause for bad weather and neither should your protection. With the right arc-rated and waterproof PPE, you can power through storm season while staying dry, visible, and protected.
Explore Dukel’s full line of electrical PPE today Dukel.com
