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Fire Resistant Clothing

Fire Resistant Clothing is required Personal Protective Equipment for many who work in high temperature areas or near energized electrical equipment. If your job requires the use of FRC, there are several important things of which you should be aware.

Not all garments classified as FRC are created equal. When choosing FRC you should be aware that:

• FRC is not fireproof. It is designed to protect the wearer from burns by resisting ignition during brief periods of high temperature exposure such as electrical arc flashes.
• FRC is manufactured with different materials and different weights. Be certain that the chosen material is appropriate for the task at hand.
• FRC effectiveness can be compromised by age, wear, contamination with flammable materials and the attachment of name patches or embroidery. FRC can be permanently damaged by improper cleaning or laundering.
• FRC is only effective when it is worn properly. It should always be worn as the outer-most garment. If worn over other layers clothing, the undergarments should be made of natural fiber and completely covered by the FRC.

Before wearing FRC, be certain to understand its proper application and limitations and how to use it properly. As always, remember to work safely!