Flame resistant workwear
At MyWorkwear we are proud of our ability to supply flame-resistant workwear. No matter what your industry or specific requirements we will always do our best to help. One of our specialist ranges is the Bizflame range. This is our heat resistant range, which spans from simple heat resistance to full fire-resistant workwear.
What is flame-resistant clothing?
Flame-resistant (FR) garments are an important safety item for workers in the power industry. However, protection varies based on the en standards rating of the clothing. Wearers must understand how the FR clothing they select can and cannot protect them.
Flame-resistant clothing refers to any garments that are specifically designed to protect the wearer from flames and thermal injury. FR clothing resists ignition and self-extinguishes once the source of the ignition is removed. This helps to prevent burns from both initial exposures to the flames and from residual heat transfer. With multiple items available from flame-resistant trousers to stylish fashion shirts, there are many garments with FR safety standards.
For many professionals, flame-resistant (FR) clothing is an essential tool of the job. High-quality, specially engineered FR garments protect the wearer from burns caused by flash fires, electric arcs, and combustible dust. This allows professionals in a number of industries to tackle potentially dangerous tasks. Over the years, FR clothing has saved countless people from serious injury and even saved lives.
What are the EN standards for FR clothing?
When buying flame-resistant clothing you will need to be looking out for the EN standards that the item is rated for. Here are some of the basic EN standards you should be looking out for:
- EN11612 – Protective Clothing Against Flame/Heat
- EN11611 EN470 – Welding Protection Clothing
- EN14116 EN533 – Flame Protection Clothing
Other EN standards you may find are related to the high visibility side of these items:
- EN471 – High Visibility Clothing
- EN20471 – High Visibility Properties
- GO/RT 3279 Railway Group Standard
When is flame-resistant clothing required?
Most workplaces will have a health and safety manager/supervisor who will instruct you on what clothing is suitable depending on the surrounding environment. If you do not have someone who is in charge of PPE in your workplace, you can assess the situation yourself. Here are a list of questions:
If you answered yes to any of these questions you should be equipped with PPE. If you are further unsure what items you need, feel free to get in contact with us and we can make some suggestions.
What is FR clothing made of?
Typically flame retardant clothing is made of natural materials such as wool or cotton. Flame resistant clothing is designed not to melt or further spread flames.
How does FR clothing work?
Through the use of flame retardant materials and special coatings ensure the fabric is resistant to open flames and/or metal splashes. The resistance ensures longevity against flames to decrease the impact and effect on the wearer.
Quality is Key
PPE should always be sourced from trusted, experienced suppliers. Professionals need to know that the overalls, balaclavas, jackets, trousers or whatever they’re wearing will protect them in case of a thermal incident. The best way to ensure PPE is up to standard is to invest in quality clothes from recognized manufacturers.
Trusted manufacturers will list the EN Standards rating of each garment clearly on the label, and provide important information on the materials used to make each item of clothing. Understanding the protective properties of each piece will help professionals properly protect themselves while they’re on the job.
Flame-resistant clothing can dramatically reduce and even prevent injuries in case of a flash fire, electrical arc, or explosion. This makes FR clothing an essential piece of PPE for people working in a variety of industries. Investing in good-quality FR clothing, and carefully checking ratings and requirements, can help to keep professionals safe while they’re tackling even the most dangerous of tasks.
