Everything You Need to Know about Fire-Resistant Clothing

Fire- and flame-resistant work clothing, as well as fire-retardant options are a must for anyone working around flames, sparks, and where fires are an ongoing possibility. To help you understand how these fabrics work and what they do for the wearer, we have some fire-resistant clothing basics.  

What is FR Clothing

FR or fire-resistant (aka flame-resistant) workwear is designed to protect the person wearing it from flames, fire, sparks, and heat. These clothes must meet Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guileless for flames, sparks, electrical arcs, and heat. The goal of the fabric is to provide a layer of protection from burns and injuries. While these work clothes are not 100% impervious to fire, they can give a person enough time to escape danger and remove themselves from a room or area engulfed in flames or excessive heat.

That level of protection is essential for those just-in-case moments, but it’s the everyday protection that makes FR clothing a must-have for plenty of occupations and jobs.

What’s in FR Clothing

FR clothing is not made with rayon, polyester, nylon and other fabrics that melt or offer little to no protection from flames and heat. Instead, they’re made with fibers that naturally and chemically resist flames. Don’t worry.  The OSHA says that chemically treated fibers/fabrics are safe to wear. These fabrics include modacrylic blends, Nomex, and Kevlar.

Should You Wear FR Clothing?

If the OSHA states that your occupation should wear FR clothing, it’s vital that you do so. These industries and professions include anyone working as an electrician or at an electric utility, in the oil or gas industry, those working in welding or metalworks, workers at chemical plants, as well as some construction jobs, and processing plants.

How do You Wash FR Clothes

FR clothing can be washed just like any other workwear. No dry cleaning necessary. However, you should always wash them alone and avoid fabric softeners and bleach of any kind. And if you can, line dry your FR clothes to prevent shrinking.

You’ll Eventually Need New FR Clothes

Just like your favorite t-shirt or pair of jeans, FR clothes will develop thin spots and holes. When they do, it’s time to replace them. Remember, while FR clothes can be fashionable and functional, their real purpose is protecting you from danger. If any of your skin is showing through the pants, shirts, jackets, or hats, stop using them for work and get to Coastal for a work wardrobe upgrade.

Coastal Carries FR Clothing

You’ll find a complete line of fire-resistant clothing for your job at Coastal. Stop by and check out all of the options and go back to work with the protection you need.