Many workplaces have a policy that their employees have to wear fire-resistant (FR) clothing. It is mainly in places that have a high risk of fire or explosions. Some of the occupations required to wear FR Clothing are electricians, paper/pulp manufacturing, food processing, and refineries, to name a few.
Here are a few things that you must know about FR clothing if you plan to wear it or make your employees wear it.
The FR Clothes Are Self-Extinguishing
Unlike regular fabrics, FR clothing will not fuel the fire. It prevents the oxygen from entering due to its material, which in turn causes the flame to extinguish as soon as it is on the cloth. What this means is that even if a flame accidentally gets on the fabric, it will almost immediately extinguish without any harm to the wearer.
Fire-Resistant Material
While most companies have to test the materials that are FR chemically, some manufacturers make products that are naturally resistant to fire. Natural fibers such as wool or silk do not melt, which makes them almost impossible to ignite. The heavier the yarn/wool, the more difficult it will be to light it on fire. That is why wool makes a good material for FR clothing.
Other materials, such as nylon are really difficult to light on fire. However, once it does catch fire, it will melt relatively easily. Despite that, it still is considered to be a good FR clothing.
The best part about these materials is that they will remain fire-resistant for life. What this means is that the FR property of these clothing will not wash or fade away with time. That is why it is an excellent investment because the clothing will remain resistant to fire no matter how much you use it.
Fabrics That Can Be Made Fire-Resistant
Materials such as cotton or linen can catch fire easily. Not only that, but they also spread the flames rapidly as well. There is, however, a way to make these materials resistant to fire. Some manufacturers treat these materials with chemicals which extinguish the flames. The compound used deprives the flame of oxygen, forcing it to extinguish.
While this is a good thing, these types of clothing eventually degrade as time progresses. Washing can also ruin their performance, which means that they can lose the FR property after some washes or uses. On top of that, the chemicals used in these clothing can have a negative impact on the natural environment.
Some Fire-Resistant Materials Are Toxic
Not all FR clothing can be considered toxic. However, the chemical used to make those materials resistant to flames is what spreads the damage in the environment. Many chemicals have been removed from the market because they were harming the natural environment too much.
How To Choose The Correct FR Clothing For Your Job?
This might seem like a simple question, but there are many aspects that you need to consider before getting an FR clothing from the most reliable supplier in your town. For example, what style of clothing or safety apparel will be most suitable for the worker, or what amount of weight is most practical? Does the FR material meet all of the safety and regulations? How much can the cloth be used before having to be replaced? These are just some of the things you need to consider before getting FR clothing.
This information will assist you to be more familiar with FR clothing. Invest time and money to do your research and find the ideal products for yourself that provide comfort, durability, and protection.
For more information on fire-resistant clothing and safety apparel in Edmonton, Canada, Visit here today.
