Fire Resistant Safety Workwear

Real-Life Protection: A Demonstration

To demonstrate the effectiveness of FR clothing, (watch video above) I conducted a simple test. I set a regular cotton-polyester t-shirt on fire, and it burned rapidly. In contrast, an old FR high-visibility shirt smoldered but did not catch fire. This stark difference highlights how FR clothing can prevent severe injuries or even save lives.

Why is this important?

• Regular fabrics can ignite and continue burning, potentially melting into the skin.
• FR fabrics, by contrast, prevent this continuous burning, minimizing injury.

Types of Fire Resistant Fabrics

There are three main types of FR fabrics used in safety workwear:

1. Inherent FR Fabrics: These materials have flame-resistant properties built into their fibers. Examples include Nomex and Kevlar.
2. Treated FR Fabrics: Regular fabrics treated with flame-resistant chemicals. An example is treated cotton.
3. Blended FR Fabrics: A combination of inherent and treated fabrics to enhance fire resistance.

Each type offers different levels of protection, with inherent fabrics generally providing more durable and long-lasting protection.

Arc Ratings and Protection Levels

In industries with high fire risks, clothing is rated based on its Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV). This rating measures the fabric’s ability to withstand heat energy from an arc flash without causing burns.

Arc Ratings Explained:

• Category 1: Minimum ATPV of 4 cal/cm². Basic protection for low-risk tasks.
• Category 2: Minimum ATPV of 8 cal/cm². Standard for most electrical work.
• Category 3: Minimum ATPV of 25 cal/cm². Used in higher-risk environments.
• Category 4: Minimum ATPV of 40 cal/cm². Maximum protection, often paired with additional PPE like face shields.

Choosing the Right FR Clothing

When selecting FR clothing, consider the following:

• Comfort: Look for breathable, flexible fabrics for better comfort during long workdays.
• Durability: Ensure the clothing can withstand the work environment’s physical demands.
• Compliance: Verify the clothing meets industry standards, such as NFPA 70E for electrical safety.

Popular FR Brands:

• DragonWear: Known for comfort and durability.
• Carhartt: Offers a range of rugged, reliable FR clothing.
• Bulwark: Specializes in various FR apparel, including outerwear.

Conclusion

In high-risk trades, FR clothing is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity. It provides essential protection against life-threatening hazards like flames and arc flashes. As a lineman, wearing fire-resistant gear daily has become second nature. It’s a small but vital step in ensuring that I go home safely every day.

By choosing the right FR clothing, you prioritize safety without compromising comfort. Whether you’re new to the trade or a seasoned professional, investing in quality FR apparel is a crucial decision that could one day save your life. Remember, safety workwear is more than just a uniform; it’s your first line of defense against the hazards of your job.

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