All fabrics made of untreated natural fibres and most synthetic fibres are combustible. It is normal and expected that they will ignite and continue to burn when exposed to an ignition source such as flame or electric arc. Because clothing constructed from these normal fabrics meets flammability requirements established by 16 CFR Part , it is generally accepted as having no unusual burning characteristics.
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Resistance to ignition and burning is an abnormal condition of wearing apparel. When work environments or occupations pose a risk of garment ignition and burning, flame-resistant apparel should be considered and selected.
Normal fabrics and apparel will burn away from the point of ignition with an increasing rate of flame spread and continue to burn after removal of the ignition source. Normal fabrics will continue to burn until they are extinguished or all flammable material is consumed.
Flame resistant fabrics and apparel are intended to resist ignition, prevent the spread of flames away from the immediate area of high heat impingement, and to self-extinguish almost immediately upon removal of the ignition source.
Flame resistant apparel will not provide significant protection from burn injury in the immediate area of contact with the ignition source. However, flame-resistant garments do provide protection against clothing ignition and sustained flame spread.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, states that non-melting, flammable fibre undergarments may be used in conjunction with flame resistant apparel. Flame resistant t-shirts, Henleys and base layer garments can provide additional wearer protection.
Flammable substances on flame resistant apparel will ignite and continue to burn on the surface of the flame resistant garment. Flame resistant apparel should be immediately removed and replaced with clean flame resistant apparel if they become fouled with flammable material. If laundering or dry cleaning cannot remove flammable contaminants, the contaminated garments should be removed from service.
There is a common perception that untreated 100% cotton fabric is somehow "flame resistant." This is simply not true. While heavyweight untreated 100% cotton fabrics may be more difficult to ignite, they can and will ignite and continue to burn if exposed to an ignition source.
Where any risk of ignition exists in the workplace, there is a need for flame resistant apparel.
Under paragraph 5a1, the General Duty Clause of the federal OSHA Act, it is the employer's responsibility to identify risks and hazards in the workplace and seek out appropriate protective work apparel and equipment for the protection of workers.
In making this hazard assessment, the employer must consider the risks present and the most appropriate means of addressing those risks. Where ignition risks are present, flame resistant protective apparel can become a prudent part of an action plan to address these concerns.
Any flame and thermal protective fabric must provide the wearer with the expected degree of protection for the useful life of the garment. Apparel is specified based on the employer's evaluation of workplace hazards. Protective garments, which function as wearing apparel for normal work activities, must be comfortable and durable while achieving appearance that is acceptable to both the employer and the wearer. In addition to these general considerations, there may be other hazards present such as chemical or molten substance exposure. Finally, these multi-use garments must be able to withstand laundering to remove soils and flammable contaminants and be returned to service without excessive colour loss, fuzzing/pilling (surface appearance change) or excessive shrinkage.
The National Fire Protection Association 70E Standard is a comprehensive standard that contains detailed instructions on how to protect workers from the heat of electric arc exposures.
Employees during activities such as operation, maintenance and demolition of exposed energized electrical conductors or circuit parts. Research shows that approximately 10% of the employees in any operation work as electricians, maintenance, or other categories of work covered by this standard.
Examples of job tasks not covered under the Edition of NFPA 70E include installations that occur:
No. Currently, NFPA 70E guidelines do not cover the generation, transmission and distribution areas of electrical utilities.
OSHA believes that the NFPA 70E standard offers useful guidance for employers and employees attempting to control electrical hazards, but OSHA has not conducted a rulemaking and therefore does not "enforce" NFPA 70E. OSHA does use consensus standards, such as NFPA 70 as evidence of hazard recognition in evaluating General Duty Clause violations.
NFPA 70E is available from NFPA, 1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box , Quincy, MA -; : 1-800-344-; online at: http://catalog.nfpa.org.
The standard requires that arc rated garments have a minimum Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) based on the hazard/risk analysis for the task being performed. The ATPV is expressed in calories per square centimeter and represents the protection from electric arcs provided by the garment. If the ATPV cannot be calculated because the fabric breaks open, the energy causing the break open in expressed as the Breakopen Threshold Energy (EBT).
Arc ratings are included on Canadian Linen flame resistant garment labels and in Canadian Linen flame resistant apparel brochures.
Electrical switching clothing (flash suits) is available for those needing HRC 3 (25 minimum ATPV) or HRC 4 (40 minimum ATPV). Many insulated outerwear garments also have ATPVs greater than 25. These can be used for specific applications where higher arc ratings are needed. Keep in mind that hearing, head, face and neck protection are also required for these higher exposure levels.
Arc rated clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn either based on the calculated incident energy determined for the specific task or by using Table 130(C)(9) to determine the hazard/risk category (HRC). HRC is specified based on specific job tasks. These range from HRC 0 that allows non-melting flammable materials up to HRC 4 that requires an arc rated flame resistant shirt and pants or flame resistant coverall, and arc flash suit with a minimum system arc rating of 40.
Annex H provides a simplified approach to selecting appropriate arc rated clothing and PPE based on whether the ask requires "everyday work clothing" or "electrical switching clothing."
Probably not. Non-melting flammable garments are only allowed for HRC 0 exposures. Employees must wear flame resistant apparel wherever there is a possible exposure to an electric arc flash above the threshold incident-energy level for a second-degree burn (1.2 cal/cm2).
Layers of non-melting flammable garments are permissible to be worn under flame resistant apparel for added protection. However, if Table 120.7(C)(9) is used to determine the HRC, only flame resistant layers within the layered system are used to determine system arc rating. Arc Ratings of individual layers cannot simply be added together. Any garment worn as the outer layer, including rainwear, must be flame resistant.
Both deliver protection. It is the responsibility of the employer to determine the appropriate selection for each environment.
In inherently flame resistant fabrics, flame resistance is an essential characteristic of the fibre from the textile is made. Because the actual structure of the fibre itself is not flammable, the protection it affords is permanent-it can never be worn away or washed out. When exposed to flame, inherently flame resistant fibre swells and becomes thicker, forming protective barrier between the heat source and the skin. This protective barrier stays supple until it cools, giving the wearer vital extra seconds of protection to escape.
Treated fabrics are treated with a flame retardant chemical to make them flame resistant. The fibres used in these fabrics, such as cotton, are not normally considered protective and become flame resistant because of the treatment. The durability of the treatment can vary from very limited life to the life of the garment. Unlike fabrics made with inherently flame resistant fibres, chemically treated flame resistant fabrics may have their flame resistant properties diminished or removed completely depending on how these fabrics are laundered and/or which chemicals they are exposed to in the work environment.
However, fabrics made from treated synthetic fibres-which are extruded with a flame retardant chemical in the fibre-forming process-become flame resistant for the life of the garment because the flame retardant cannot be removed by wear of laundering.
Nomex® IIIA by DuPont is an inherently flame resistant fabric and provides excellent protection from fire and arc flash hazards. A blend of 93% Nomex®, 5% Kevlar® and 2% static dissipative fibre is woven into fabric to create flame resistant protection for industrial workers in Flash Fire (NFPA ) and HRC 1 Arc Flash applications.
Nomex® IIIA minimizes break open and maintains a stable, inert barrier between the fire and skin, protecting the wearer from direct exposure. Forming a tough, protective char when exposed to flame, the fabric stays supple until it cools, allowing wearers the valuable seconds they need to escape fires. The lightweight, durable fabric resists abrasion, tears and chemicals, lasting three to five times longer than other standard and protective fibres.
INDURA® Ultra Soft®, a chemically treated fabric comprised of 88% cotton and 12% high tenacity nylon blend, is guaranteed flame-resistant for the life of the garment. The high tenacity nylon is focused on the face of the fabric, substantially improving abrasion resistance, as well as extending garment wear life by over 50 percent. Featuring multi-purpose protection, INDURA® Ultra Soft® provides superior protection in Electrical Arc Exposure, NFPA Flash Fire Testing and in welding and ferrous metal applications. The soft, yet breathable, fabric stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter, providing worker comfort in any condition.
Combining comfort and protection, EXCEL FR® treated fabric is 100% flame-resistant and 100% cotton. EXCEL FR® cotton garments offer unbeatable protection for foundries, flame cutting and welding, as well as electrical utilities and the chemical, oil, gas and petrochemical industries.
EXCEL FR® fabric is treated with a flame retardant chemical in the fibre-forming process. This procedure ensures the fabric's flame-resistant properties are not compromised by laundering or by chemical exposure in the work environment. With this treatment process, all EXCEL FR® cotton apparel is guaranteed flame-resistant for the life of the garment.
EXCEL FR delivers good resistance to dry heat and acts as a natural insulator. Additionally, moisture regain of durable FR cotton is excellent, resulting in low static propensity.
COOL TOUCH® 2 is an inherently flame-resistant fibre blend of 48% Modacrylic, 37% Lyocell, and 15% para aramid fibre. Providing flame-resistant protection, high durability and comfort, COOL TOUCH® 2 offers the ultimate protection in a lightweight, wearable fabric. The fabric is designed to provide protection in NFPA 70E/Arc Flash HRC 2 applications and Flash Fire (NFPA ) applications.
COOL TOUCH® 2 fabric resists abrasion and delivers high strength with low thermal shrinkage. Because COOL TOUCH® 2 garments are made from a blend of inherently IR fibres, the fabric's flame-resistant property cannot be removed by wear or laundering.
The flame resistant properties of inherent fabrics cannot be washed out or worn away, period. This means the flame resistant properties of apparel made of inherent fibres cannot be compromised. It is crucial for the wearer to know the flame resistant protection is always there.
Only garments using fabrics made of inherently flame-resistant fibres are truly "inherent."
For flame resistant treated fabric, such as flame resistant cotton/nylon blends, one way to remove its flame resistant properties is to use regular chlorine bleach while washing the garment. While use of chlorine bleach may not be recommended per some fabric manufacturers' laundry instructions, this can happen in the real world. It does not take many washes with chlorine bleach to damage the flame resistant properties of a flame resistant cotton or cotton/nylon fabric. And unfortunately, the wearer would not be able to tell it was no longer flame resistant simply by looking at the garment. With inherent fabrics, the flame resistant properties cannot be removed.
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If home laundering instructions for Nomex® IIIA and flame resistant treated cotton/nylon garments are followed precisely, nothing negative should happen to any of these garments. However, there have been specific instances when flame resistant treated cotton/nylon garments were laundered using hydrogen peroxide (a type of oxygen bleach) during the wash cycle and the flame resistant properties of the flame resistant cotton/nylon fabrics were compromised.
The combination of hydrogen peroxide (a type of oxygen bleach) with 'hard' water during laundering could compromise the flame resistant properties of garments made with flame resistant treated fabrics. Exposure to oxidizing (e.g., chlorine-containing) chemicals in the workplace may, over time, compromise the flame-resistant properties of garments made with flame resistant treated fabrics.
Without performing destructive testing, such as vertical flammability testing, you would not know. This is dangerous, since the wearer cannot see the difference between a flame resistant treated garment that is still effective and one that has lost its flame resistant properties.
Any garment with visible holes, rips, and/or tears or contamination from flammable materials should be properly repaired, cleaned, or removed from service. But it is difficult to judge the remaining level of flame-resistance in a flame resistant treated garment because there are no visible cues. The flame resistant performance can only be determined through a destructive test. Since the flame resistant properties of a truly inherent flame resistant fabric, like Nomex® IIIA, do not change with use or laundering, the flame resistant properties for Nomex® IIIA will be there no matter the garment age or how it was laundered.
A garment made with flame resistant treated fabric, such as flame resistant cotton/nylon blends, may need to be retired from service because its flame resistant chemical treatment was compromised, long before the fabric shows any visible wear. However, the wearer would not know this since the garment would show no indication of this compromise.
The two main garment performance standards for flame resistant apparel, NFPA and ASTM F (used for NFPA 70E), only specify minimum performance levels for fabrics and garments. These standards do not address all factors related to durability of the flame resistant properties. It is the end-user's responsibility to determine if these minimum standards provide an appropriate performance level for their particular application.
In high-risk industries, ensuring the safety and protection of your workers is the most important step you can take. One of the most crucial elements in safeguarding employees from potential hazards, such as flames and extreme heat, is the use of appropriate protective clothing. Fire-resistant fabric plays a vital role in this regard, offering a layer of defence that can prevent severe injuries and save lives.
This blog will delve into a range of fire-resistant and flame-retardant fabrics, providing you with essential information to make informed decisions about your personalised workwear choices. By exploring the benefits of these materials, we’ll help you select a high-quality uniform that not only protects your workforce but also contributes to a greener future.
Whether you need fire-resistant high-vis workwear for industrial applications or specialised garments for firefighting, this comprehensive guide will help you choose the right fire-resistant fabric to meet your needs.
Fire-resistant fabrics are specially-engineered materials designed to withstand ignition and resist burning when exposed to fire. These fabrics are either inherently fire-resistant due to their chemical structure or treated with fire-retardant chemicals to enhance their resistance to flames. Flame-retardant fabrics, on the other hand, have been chemically treated to slow down or halt the spread of fire. Both types play a crucial role in enhancing safety in environments where exposure to fire is a significant risk.
While the terms “fire-resistant” and “flame-retardant” are often used interchangeably, they refer to different types of fabric treatment. Fire-resistant fabrics are inherently non-flammable due to their chemical composition; they do not easily ignite and will self-extinguish if they catch fire. Flame-retardant fabrics, on the other hand, are made from materials that are not naturally fire-resistant (such as cotton) but have been treated in a manner that inhibits the spread of fire.
Understanding this distinction is essential for selecting the appropriate protective clothing based on your specific workplace hazards.
The importance of fire-resistant fabrics in workplace safety cannot be overstated. In industries such as firefighting, oil and gas, electrical maintenance, and welding, workers are regularly exposed to high temperatures, sparks, and flames. Fire-resistant clothing provides a critical layer of protection, reducing the risk of burns and injuries. This protective gear can be the difference between a minor incident and a life-threatening injury, ensuring that employees can perform their duties with a greater sense of security.
Aramid fibres such as Nomex and Kevlar are renowned for their exceptional heat resistance and durability. These synthetic fibres do not ignite easily and offer excellent resistance to high temperatures.
Nomex, in particular, is widely used in firefighting gear and military uniforms due to its ability to withstand intense heat and flames without compromising wearer safety.
Kevlar, known for its strength and lightweight nature, is also employed in protective gear where strength-to-weight ratio is critical, such as body armour.
Carbon foam is prized for its outstanding thermal resistance and lightweight properties.
This material can withstand extreme temperatures and is favoured in aerospace and specialised industrial applications where heat management is crucial. Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for applications where reducing overall weight is important without sacrificing thermal protection, such as in thermal barriers and insulation for aircraft components.
PBI is known for its exceptionally high melting point and inherent resistance to combustion.
It does not burn or melt easily, making it suitable for extreme firefighting conditions and astronaut suits. PBI’s ability to maintain its integrity at high temperatures protects wearers from heat and flames, making it a preferred choice in environments where exposure to fire is frequent and intense, such as in space missions and structural firefighting.
Flame-retardant cotton, also known as treated cotton, combines the natural comfort and breathability of cotton with added flame resistance through chemical treatments. This fabric is comfortable to wear and cost-effective compared to some synthetic alternatives.
It finds widespread use in general workwear, where protection against flash fires and sparks is necessary, as well as in welding uniforms where both comfort and safety are crucial during hot work operations.
Wool is a natural fibre known for its inherent flame resistance and sustainability. It has a higher ignition temperature compared to many synthetic fibres, and it does not melt or stick to the skin when exposed to fire.
Wool garments offer natural insulation and comfort, making them suitable for protective clothing in environments with lower fire risks. Wool’s renewable and biodegradable properties contribute to its eco-friendly credentials, aligning with sustainable clothing practices.
Choosing fire-resistant fabrics that are sustainable as well as durable is crucial for ensuring workplace safety that also reduces environmental impact and manages costs.
Such textiles, by definition, withstand both tough conditions and prolonged use, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimising costs and waste alike. By adhering to the correct guidelines for cleaning and care, you can ensure even longer-lasting protection from such garments, promoting a sustainable approach to safety.
Whether you choose fabrics with recycled content, or naturally fire-resistant wool, opting for textiles made from renewable and eco-friendly materials is key to sustainability
Responsibly disposing of fire-resistant garments at the end of their life cycle is essential. Many suppliers offer recycling programmes to ensure garments are recycled or repurposed, but you can also donate and repurpose your old clothing where possible.
Selecting the appropriate fire-resistant fabric for your business is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of your employees. This decision involves assessing the specific risks associated with your industry, considering budget constraints, and choosing a reputable supplier.
Here’s a detailed look at each of these factors:
Understanding the specific fire hazards in your industry is the first step in choosing the right fire-resistant fabric. Each industry has its own specific requirements when it comes to the protective gear and PPE you wear on the job.
Firefighters need gear made from high-performance fabrics (like Nomex or PBI) that can withstand extreme temperatures and prolonged exposure to flames. These materials provide essential protection against the intense heat and direct flame contact encountered during firefighting operations.
Electricians require clothing that not only resists flames but also offers protection against electrical arcs. Fabrics treated with flame-retardant chemicals, such as flame-retardant (FR) cotton, are commonly used in this field to protect against arc flashes and other electrical hazards.
Workers in the oil and gas industry are exposed to flash fire hazards and require garments made from materials that provide quick self-extinguishing properties and minimal after-burn, such as aramid blends. These fabrics ensure that any ignition is quickly extinguished, reducing the risk of severe burns and injuries.
Welders need durable, heat-resistant fabrics that can protect them from sparks and spatter. Treated cotton and wool are popular choices in this industry because they offer the necessary heat resistance and comfort, ensuring that welders can work safely and efficiently.
Assessing the specific hazards and protection levels required in your industry will guide you in selecting the most appropriate fire-resistant fabric.
Balancing cost with quality and durability is essential when choosing fire-resistant fabrics, so, while the initial investment in premium fire-resistant fabrics may be higher, the extended lifespan and reduced maintenance costs associated make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
Not only do high-quality fire-resistant garments tend to last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and resulting in cost savings over time, but they also require less maintenance to retain their protective properties. Not to mention, using such higher-end, reliable fabrics ensures that your company meets safety regulations and standards, potentially avoiding costly fines and liability issues.
When it comes to choosing where to get tour fire-resistant gear from, it is crucial to ensure you end yp with high-quality garments that meet all the required safety standards. Partnering with reliable workwear suppliers like Clothes2order offers several advantages, from aforementioned quality assurance to product variety, as well as customer support and sustainability.
Ensuring worker safety in high-risk industries is essential, and using the right fire-resistant fabrics is a key factor in maintaining this security. By understanding industry-specific hazards and choosing sustainable, durable fabrics, you can protect your employees (and the planet) effectively. Partnering with reputable suppliers like Clothes2order for your personalised workwear, high-vis workwear, and PPE needs, meanwhile, ensures high-quality, compliant gear that balances cost with long-term safety and sustainability.
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