Choosing the right flame resistant workwear

Flame-resistant workwear protects employees in industries where exposure to open flames, extreme heat or sparks is a daily reality. These garments are designed to slow down the spread of flames and provide essential protection for workers.

Characteristics of flame-resistant clothing

These garments are made from materials that do not ignite immediately when exposed to fire. They are capable of isolating the flame and slowing down and extinguishing its spread.

The key feature of flame-resistant workwear is not that it is completely non-flammable, but that it delays ignition and extinguishes flames within two seconds. This gives the wearer valuable time to move to safety.

Types of flame-resistant materials

There are two main types of materials used for flame-resistant workwear.

Treated fabrics:

These are fabrics treated with a chemical finish, such as Proban or Pyrovatex, which gives the fabric flame-resistant properties. These fabrics are generally more cost-effective and are often used for protective clothing that shields against welding splatter and grinding sparks.

A high percentage of cotton provides these fabrics with almost lifelong protection against flames and heat. Since welding splatter and grinding sparks will cause holes in any type of fabric, it is often more economical to use treated fabrics for this application.

Inherently flame-resistant fabrics:

Materials such as aramids (for example Nomex) and modacrylic fibres have built-in flame-resistant properties that do not diminish after repeated washing.

These fabrics are more expensive but provide longer-lasting protection and are often stronger. As a result, they are suitable for less destructive but hazardous environments such as the chemical industry.

Differences between inherently flame-resistant fabrics: Aramids versus Modacrylic

Various materials are used to protect workers against fire and heat.

Aramids and modacrylic fibres are both popular choices for flame-resistant workwear. Each material has distinct characteristics that make it suitable for specific applications. The key differences are outlined below.

Aramids

Aramids, such as Nomex and Conex, are inherently flame-resistant materials that are particularly suitable for less destructive tasks, such as those found in the chemical industry. The main advantages of aramids are:

• Protection against liquid chemicals: Aramids treated with a fluorocarbon finish provide excellent protection against various chemicals. They are also hydrophobic, meaning they do not absorb water or other liquids.
• Durability: Aramids are highly resistant to wear and have great strength, resulting in a longer lifespan. This helps compensate for the higher initial cost.

Modacrylic

Modacrylic is another type of inherently flame-resistant material that is often less expensive than aramids but more costly than treated fabrics. Modacrylic is versatile in use.

• Versatile applications: Modacrylic can be used for both light welding and grinding work, as well as tasks typically performed with aramids. This makes modacrylic a flexible choice for companies that need protection against both fire and chemical risks.
• Chemical protection: When combined with a fluorocarbon finish, modacrylic also provides good protection against chemical splashes. This finish adheres well to the synthetic fibres in blended modacrylic fabrics, improving resistance to liquid chemical splashes.

Antistatic properties

Both materials can be given antistatic properties by adding an antistatic fibre, usually a carbon fibre. This is important in environments where electrical discharge may pose a risk, such as in explosive (ATEX) zones.

Conclusion

Choosing the right flame-resistant workwear is essential for safety in high-risk environments. Each material offers advantages depending on the specific requirements of the working environment.

Durability, chemical resistance and antistatic properties are important factors. By carefully evaluating these characteristics, companies can create a safe working environment that ensures the protection of their employees.

FAQ

1. What is the main advantage of flame-resistant workwear?
   Flame-resistant workwear is designed to slow the spread of flames, giving workers additional time to move to safety when exposed to fire, extreme heat or sparks.
2. What is the difference between treated and inherently flame-resistant fabrics?
   Treated fabrics are finished with chemicals such as Proban or Pyrovatex to provide flame resistance, but their protective properties may decrease over time and after repeated washing. Inherently flame-resistant fabrics such as aramids and modacrylic fibres retain their protective properties permanently, even after frequent washing.
3. Which flame-resistant materials are most suitable for the chemical industry?
   For the chemical industry, aramids such as Nomex and Conex are recommended due to their durability and hydrophobic properties that help repel liquid chemicals.
4. How often should flame-resistant workwear be replaced?
   The replacement frequency depends on the type of material and the intensity of exposure to hazards. As soon as damage appears in the fabric, the garment should be replaced.
5. Are there flame-resistant materials that also protect against electrical discharge?
   Yes. Both treated fabrics and inherently flame-resistant fabrics can be given antistatic properties by adding an antistatic fibre such as carbon fibre, ensuring safety in explosive (ATEX) zones.