Flame resistant (FR) clothing is a foundational way to help keep your employees safe and protected from burns caused by flash fires, electric arcs and combustible dust. These hazards can be especially prevalent in many different industries and trades like:
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Within each profession and industry, the legal requirements for safety workwear vary based on the duties each position entails. Because of these very specific requirements, there are distinct levels of flame resistance protection and a variety of FR fabrics available on the market.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets the standards and requirements that fire resistance garments must adhere to.
“Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace”, known as NFPA 70E, covers electrical safety requirements for workers, focusing on safeguards to remain productive within their respective job functions. The purpose of the standard is to provide “practical safeguarding of employees during activities such as the installation, operation, maintenance, and demolition of electric conductors, electric equipment, signaling and communications conductors.”
In short, NFPA 70E exists to protect electrical workers across all industries who work on or near electricity or energized parts/equipment capable of generating an arc flash.
NFPA 70E is considered the most widely practiced, comprehensive standard for electrical safety in the workplace. Electrical worker FR clothing must comply with these standards, which establishes CAT categories that define the level of arc rating needed by clothing to perform specific hazardous tasks. The standard identifies the distinct types of fire protective clothing needed for specific types of work.
Some of the key garment tests to comply with 70E include:
NFPA is the clothing standard for protection against flash fire hazards. This requirement is most commonly applicable to non-electrical work found in oil and gas industries, but it does encompass all potential jobs where flash fire is considered a hazard.
The purpose of NFPA is similar to 70E in that it exists to protect workers from burns caused by hazardous working conditions or materials in the workplace. It provides the minimum requirements “for the design, construction, evaluation, and verification of flame resistant garments for use by industrial personnel.” It intends to reduce burn injuries and the severity of burns for wearers.
The garment requirements laid out in NFPA are extremely stringent. FR clothing must tested and certified by a third party before being made available on the open market, and garments must defy melting, dripping, or after-flame burning, similar to 70E.
While FR garment designs do sometimes adhere to both standards, it is important to note that compliance with one standard does not mean compliance with the other.
While “flame resistance” and “flame retardant” are terms sometimes used interchangeably, there are differences. Flame resistance refers to any fabric where fibers have a natural resistance to burning when exposed to flame. Wool, for example, is highly unlikely to fully ignite because any flames introduced to a wool garment tend to be naturally extinguished by the fibers themselves.
Flame retardant fabrics, on the other hand, are made up of fibers treated by chemicals to make them exceptionally resistant to fire. They can burn, but at a much slower rate than all other fabrics and with the added ability to extinguish themselves.
If a flame is removed from either of these garment types, the fabric will stop burning. This means it will not burn on its own and wearers of these fabrics will have added protection against ignition.
Some of the leading clothing manufacturers we offer, like DRIFIRE® and SteelGuard®, design, test, and innovate FR clothing by using many types and blends of different fibers to make FR fabrics. Synthetic fibers continue to be a large portion of what comprises FR garments, but everyday fibers like cotton can also become flame resistant when flame retardant chemicals are added.
Nylon and polyester are both popular synthetic fibers that have fire resistant qualities. Plastic-based fibers (like nylon and polyester) tend to melt instead of burn, making them great for FR garment fabrics. Nylon and polyester are both popular materials used in FR clothing due to these high melting points and low thermal conductivity. Manufacturers often treat these synthetic fibers with a fire-resistant chemical for additional protection.
Aramid fibers are another type of synthetic fiber known for their resistance to high temperatures and corrosion. They are also extremely lightweight, yet high strength which make them an excellent fiber for usage in high-performance, FR fabrics. Aramid fibers are known for being stronger than steel at only a fifth the weight of steel.
Modacrylic are synthetic fibers known for their durability, comfort and protection. They have flame retardant qualities, but also are known to be comfortable due to low density of modacrylic fibers. These fibers can be easily dyed, shaped and are known to dry fast. As such, fabrics made with modacrylic fibers are commonly used in performance FR clothing and other workwear.
Cotton, by nature, is not flame resistant. It is highly flammable. However, chemically-treated FR cotton is indeed flame resistant. FR cotton feels and performs much like cotton, but with the added protection against fire making it another common fabric found in FR clothing. Some garments are 100% cotton, yet the flame retardant chemicals make those same garments flame-resistant and able to comply with FR standards. Cotton and nylon fibers are often blended to form a popular flame resistant fabric option for FR clothing manufacturers.
Most FR fabrics are often a specific blend of these kinds of fibers coated with fire-resistant chemicals. The blend ratios and chemical treatments required depend on the application of the garment and which NFPA standards to which it needs to comply.
How do flame resistant fabrics work? Essentially, FR fabrics are made up of fibers that won’t ignite – often flame retardant fibers, but sometimes a mix of both flame retardant and naturally flame resistant fibers. With all these fibers, both synthetic and natural, FR clothing manufacturers can mix and match different blends to create new and innovative fabrics that increase protection and garment performance, like enhanced moisture wicking, comfort, air flow or durability.
The properties of these fabrics tend to perform well to meet various standard measurements, including:
Self-extinguishing – Garments should extinguish themselves after 12 seconds of flame exposure.
Charring – Most FR fabrics should char (but not burn), which acts to eliminate the fire’s fuel while helping to block the heat from the fire.
Insulating properties – In certain workplace environments, insulating properties are needed to assess how well a garment can protect the wearer from the heat of flames as well as protection in freezing temperatures.
FR garments require special safety and care considerations to help the distinct types of FR fabrics retain their flame retardance. NFPA 70E standards state that garments should keep all their FR properties after 25 washes (and dries). But this is only possible if FR clothing is meticulously cleaned. Proper laundering and maintenance are necessary for FR clothing and critical for extending the longevity of the garments so that they keep you and your team safe.
Soils and stains MUST be removed entirely before FR clothing can be used in the field. A small oil stain on your flame resistant coveralls, for example, increases the risk of garment ignition. FR garments must also remain free and clear of other safety-compromising contaminants, like soap residue or calcium and magnesium salt build-up that can build up through washing or hard water.
Proper cleaning of FR garments is a bit more complicated than your standard cotton or polyester clothing items, but a uniform rental service can remove these challenges, shifting the responsibility of cleaning from your team to an experienced professional with established cleaning processes and protocols for FR fabrics.
A Vestis uniform rental program helps businesses just like yours save time and money while alleviating the challenges of cleaning, maintaining and managing critical safety apparel. Leveraging a uniform rental program, businesses can improve safety, ensure regulatory compliance and gain peace of mind knowing that all the routine maintenance and upkeep are handled by FR clothing professionals. Read more about the benefits of renting FR clothing and uniforms.
From superior fire protection to enhanced comfort and mobility, Vestis is proud to offer several FR clothing options from the industry’s top manufacturers. We are also the exclusive industrial laundry provider of rental DRIFIRE FR rental garments, a proven leader in the FR industry.
Along the way, we help ensure your facility remains compliant with all the statutory requirements related to flame resistant clothing based on your company’s protection needs. Here is how our FR uniform rental program works:
When it comes to safety at work, especially in jobs where fire is a risk, the right clothing can make a big difference. Fire retardant (FR) clothing is becoming more and more important across various industries. It’s not just about wearing something; it's about wearing something that can protect you against fire.
With more people realizing how crucial these clothes are, there's a growing need for fire-resistant gear. Whether you're a safety manager in the oil and gas industry, an electrician, or a construction worker, this article will provide you with crucial insights and considerations to ensure that your choice in fire retardant clothing not only meets regulatory requirements but also offers optimal protection and durability in the face of extreme conditions.
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Fire retardant clothing is specially made to resist burning or catching fire. When these clothes come into contact with fire, they are designed to self-extinguish.
This means that the fire will go out by itself, often preventing serious burns. It’s like having a safety shield made of fabric. These clothes are treated with chemicals that help stop the fire from spreading.
Fire resistant clothing, on the other hand, is made of materials that are naturally harder to catch fire. Unlike fire retardant clothing, they are not treated with chemicals. Instead, they are made of materials that are naturally slow to burn.
If these clothes do catch fire, they burn slowly, giving the person wearing them more time to escape or put out the fire.
Understanding 'flame resistant' is key for workplace safety. Whether it’s fire retardant or fire resistant, these clothes are all about protecting people from fire. Along with fire retardant clothing, it's essential to wear safety glasses and hard hats in high-risk jobs to ensure comprehensive protection.
They are especially important in jobs where there’s a high risk of fire, like in welding or electrical work. Wearing the right kind of clothes can prevent serious injuries and even save lives.
The secret to the power of fire-retardant clothing lies in its materials. Common materials used include treated cotton and nomex.
Treated cotton is regular cotton that has been treated with special chemicals that make it fire-resistant.
Nomex, on the other hand, is a high-strength material that is naturally resistant to fire. It doesn’t melt or drip and is self-extinguishing.
These materials work in different ways to keep you safe.
Both these materials are about slowing down the fire or stopping it, giving people valuable time to react and stay safe.
When we talk about fire retardant clothing, the FR rating is a crucial aspect to understand. This rating is a measure of how well the clothing can protect against specific heat and fire-related hazards.
It's important because it helps you choose the right level of protection based on the specific risks in your workplace. Different jobs and industries have varying levels of fire risk, so the FR rating helps ensure that workers are adequately protected.
This is a standard set by the National Fire Protection Association. It focuses on garments for protection against flash fire. It outlines the minimum design, construction, and certification requirements for flame-resistant clothing.
This standard is particularly crucial in industries where workers are at risk from short-duration thermal exposures.
This standard complements NFPA by focusing on the proper selection, care, and maintenance of flame-resistant garments. It's about ensuring the ongoing effectiveness of FR clothing by guiding how they should be used and maintained.
ASTM F: Pertains to the performance specification for textile material for apparel exposed to electrical arc and related thermal hazards.
ASTM F: Standard specification for arc and flame resistant rainwear.
ASTM F: Standard test method for evaluating flame-resistant clothing for protection against flash fire simulations using an instrumented manikin.
ASTM F: Standard specification for flame-resistant rainwear for protection against flame hazards.
OSHA .269: Covers the operation and maintenance of electric power generation, control, transmission, and distribution lines and equipment.
OSHA General Duty Clause: Requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards.
These standards and certifications play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of fire retardant clothing.
Each standard has its specific focus, whether it's electrical safety, visibility, or protection against flash fires, making them essential in different work environments.
Related: The Importance of FR Ratings in Jackets and How to Choose the Right One for Your Needs
Proper maintenance, washing, and care of FR clothing are crucial to ensure they continue to provide the necessary level of protection and extend their usability. Here are some tips based on information from Tyndale USA, Occupational Health & Safety, and LAPCO FR:
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Washing Temperature: Launder garments at a "warm" temperature to minimize shrinkage. For heavily soiled garments, use the hottest temperature allowed on the care label (usually warm) to remove dirt. FR garments can be dry-cleaned when necessary.
Laundering Options: Home laundering is often recommended as it ensures longer garment life and greater convenience. However, industrial laundering might be necessary for extremely soiled garments.
Avoid Bleach and Peroxide: Bleach or peroxide can degrade the FR properties of the fabric. It's important not to use these products for laundering FR clothing.
Dealing with Odors and Stains: If a garment has a lingering smell of oil or solvents, rewash it until the odor is gone. Visible stains might not impact the garment's safety, but persistent odors might indicate the presence of flammable substances.
Avoid Additives: Do not use fabric softeners, starch, or any additives that could build up and impede the FR performance of the garment.
Hard Water Concerns: Repeated washing in hard water can lead to mineral buildup, which could ignite. Consider using a water softener if hard water is an issue.
Separate Washing: Wash FR garments separately from other clothing to avoid cross-contamination and to maintain their protective qualities.
Inside Out Washing: Wash FR garments inside out to improve color retention and preserve appearance.
Drying Tips: Tumble dry on low settings and avoid overdrying. Remove the garment from the dryer while still damp to minimize shrinkage.
Repairs and Damage: If FR clothing is damaged, it can be repaired using flame resistant fabric and thread, as long as the repair maintains the garment's FR integrity. Retire any FR garment with significant damage, like a hole larger than a quarter or a rip longer than 3 inches.
Improper care of FR clothing can significantly affect its fire resistance. Using incorrect cleaning agents like bleach, or adding fabric softeners, can reduce the effectiveness of the flame-resistant properties.
Additionally, failure to remove contaminants like oil or solvents can turn the garment itself into a hazard. Regular inspection and proper laundering are key to maintaining the safety and integrity of FR clothing.
Related: Hi-Vis Clothes Cleaning Guide: How to Wash, Dry & Remove Stains
When it comes to the use of fire-resistant (FR) clothing in the workplace, there are key regulations and standards that employers must adhere to, primarily mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other safety standards.
source: U.S. Department of Labor
This foundational principle requires employers to ensure a safe working environment free of known hazards, including fire-related risks.
This specific regulation mandates that workers must wear FR clothing that protects against burns from electric arcs or flames when working in hazardous conditions.
It also requires that the outer layer of clothing, except for certain items like head, hands, and feet coverings, must be flame-resistant under specific conditions such as exposure to circuit parts operating at more than 600 volts, or risk of ignition from electric arcs or molten metal.
This rule stipulates that employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE), including FR clothing, at no cost to employees working in relevant industries.
ASTM and NFPA Standards: These include various standards like NFPA and ASTM F, which provide guidelines on the performance requirements for FR clothing.
Conditions for Using FR Clothing: Employers must ensure that FR clothing is used in situations where there's a risk of exposure to flames or electric arcs, as specified by OSHA's revisions to 29 CFR .269 and Subpart V.
Provision of FR Clothing: Employers are required to provide FR clothing to employees at risk of exposure to fire hazards at no cost.
Laundry and Maintenance: Employers have the responsibility to ensure that the laundering and maintenance of FR clothing do not compromise its protective properties. This can mean either handling the cleaning of such clothing themselves or training employees in proper laundering techniques if they are to wash their work gear at home.
Training and Compliance: Employers must train their employees on the proper use of FR clothing and ensure compliance with OSHA standards.
Inspection and Repair: Regular inspection of FR clothing for damage and proper repair using flame-resistant materials is necessary to maintain the protective integrity of the clothing.
It's important for employers to be thoroughly familiar with these regulations and standards to ensure both compliance and the safety of their employees.
The specifics can vary based on industry and risk factors, so a detailed understanding tailored to the workplace environment is crucial.
Related: The Most Common OSHA Guidelines Violated by Employers
When considering the purchase of quality flame-resistant (FR) clothing, it's important to understand the typical cost range and weigh it against the investment in safety.
The cost of FR clothing can vary widely based on the type, material, and specific safety requirements it meets. Here are some general price ranges:
Basic FR Workwear: Simple FR shirts and pants can range from $50 to $150 each. These are usually suitable for minimal risk environments.
Specialized FR Garments: More specialized items, like FR coveralls or jackets, can cost anywhere between $100 and $300, depending on their specifications.
High-End and Customized FR Clothing: For garments designed for high-risk environments, or those that are customized for specific industrial needs, prices can exceed $300 per item.
While the cost of FR clothing may seem high initially, it's essential to consider this as an investment in safety rather than just an expense. Here’s why:
Prevention of Serious Injuries: FR clothing is designed to protect workers from severe burns and injuries. The cost of the clothing is often far less than the medical costs, lost productivity, and potential legal implications associated with workplace burn injuries.
Compliance with Safety Regulations: Many industries require FR clothing as part of compliance with safety regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines and legal issues.
Longevity and Durability: Quality FR clothing is typically more durable and has a longer lifespan than regular workwear, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that employees are protected can improve morale and productivity, as workers feel safer and more valued in their workplace.
Some companies offer discounts for bulk purchases or have rental programs for FR clothing, which can reduce the overall cost.
Taking good care of FR clothing, adhering to proper washing and maintenance guidelines, can extend its life, providing better value over time.
Ultimately, the cost of FR clothing should be viewed in the context of its role in ensuring worker safety. Cutting corners on safety gear can have far more costly consequences.
Fonirra is a professional supplier of high-visibility clothing and safety uniforms, including a vast selection of flame-resistant (FR) clothing. Our product line caters to various industry needs, offering items like high-visibility shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, raincoats, and specifically FR clothing. Fonirra offers a secure shopping cart on their website, making your purchase experience safe and convenient.
We emphasize safety and visibility for construction professionals and other workers in hazardous environments. Our apparel is designed to meet various safety standards, including ANSI/ISEA for the US market, EN ISO, and EN for the European market, as well as AS/NZS standards for the Australian market.
Our website showcases a variety of safety apparel suitable for different seasons and working conditions, highlighting features like water and windproof materials, breathability, and thermal integration for cold weather conditions.
When purchasing flame-resistant (FR) clothing, it's crucial to make an informed decision. Here's a comprehensive checklist to guide buyers:
Certification and Compliance: Ensure the FR clothing meets industry standards like NFPA , NFPA 70E, or ASTM F. Check for labels or documentation proving compliance.
Fabric Type: Understand whether the fabric is inherently flame-resistant or treated to be so. Common materials include Nomex, modacrylic, and flame-resistant treated cotton.
Fit and Comfort: Choose lightweight fire-retardant clothing for greater comfort, especially when working in physically demanding environments.
Durability: Check the garment’s build quality and resistance to wear and tear. Durable clothing can withstand regular washing without losing its FR properties.
Maintenance Requirements: Look into the washing and care instructions. Avoid fabrics that require special maintenance or lose their FR properties with regular laundering.
Protection Level: Match the garment's protection level (like its Arc Thermal Performance Value or ATPV) to the specific hazards of your workplace.
Design and Functionality: Consider features like pockets, zippers, and reflective elements for functionality and visibility.
Climate and Working Conditions: Choose clothing suitable for your work environment, whether it's insulated for cold weather or breathable for hot conditions.
Cost vs. Value: Evaluate the cost against the garment’s life expectancy, safety features, and compliance with regulations.
Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research the brand’s reputation and read customer reviews for real-world insights into the clothing's performance.
Size Availability and Fit: Ensure a wide range of sizes is available to accommodate all workers, and check if the brand offers women's and men's specific fits.
Warranty and Customer Support: Look for products with a warranty and consider the manufacturer's customer support for future queries or issues.
Remember, the right FR clothing not only complies with safety standards but also fits well, is comfortable, and suits your specific work environment.
Choosing the right fire retardant work clothes is crucial for workplace safety. This article has covered key factors to consider, from understanding the difference between fire retardant and fire-resistant clothing to the importance of FR ratings, material selection, and maintenance.
We also emphasized compliance with legal standards and provided a handy checklist for buyers. Remember, investing in quality FR clothing is an investment in safety, ensuring protection and peace of mind in hazardous environments.
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