Flame Resistant Clothing

Flame resistant clothing works on the principle of creating a barrier between the heat or flames and the wearer’s skin. The mechanism of this barrier is created by using special materials that owe their resistance to ignition as well as have the potential to self-extinguish or insulate the wearer from the heat.

The Science Behind Flame Resistance

The science behind flame resistance lies in the properties of the materials used in producing the clothing. The flame-resistant materials vary according to synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, or aramid, coated with flame retardants, or having inherent flame-resistant properties. These are: resist ignition; are not easily inflamed; and extinguish on their own.

If, though, the material does ignite, it self extinguishes; when its source of flame is taken away, burning ceases.

Insulate

Flame resistant materials are designed to prevent exposure to heat; in other words, they insulate the person inside from burning.

Types of Flame Resistant Materials

There are many types of flame-resistant materials used in FRC:

Inherent flame resistant materials

These materials contain inherent flame resistant properties like aramid fibers themselves.

Flame Resistant Treated materials

These are treated, like with polyester or nylon for example to be inherently flame resistant.

Hybrid flame resistant materials

They possess a combination of inherent and treated flame resistance. Some examples include the blend of aramid fibers with polyester

Benefits of Flame Resistant Clothing

Flame resistant clothing provides various advantages to employees in high-risk industries. These include:

Protection from Fire Hazards

Fire-resistant clothing prevents burning and thus injuries due to fire hazards. This is very crucial in industries where fire usually breaks out suddenly, for example in the oil and gas companies.

Compliance with Safety Regulations

The flame-resistant clothing complies with the safety regulations of most companies, reducing possible fines and penalties. Many companies require companies to use them as part of personal protective equipment.

Sectors That Must Use Flame Resistant Clothing

Some sectors require the use of flame resistant clothing as part and parcel of their PPE. Some of these include:

Oil and Gas Industry

The oil and gas industry happens to be among the high-risk industries as far as fire hazards are concerned. In most cases, they require the use of flame resistant clothing for protection against fires and explosions.

Construction Industry

Another industry that has a high risk, therefore necessitating flame resistant clothing is the construction company. Workers might be exposed to fires during welding and cutting or any other form of hot work.

Manufacturing Industry

Flame resistant clothing is needed in the manufacturing industry, especially in any industry wherein the work involves hot work processes. For example, there are kinds of manufacturing processes requiring welding or cutting.