Page 10 - OHS, October 2024

P R O T E C T I V E A P P A R E L
Defi ning Durability: A Technical Guide to FR/AR Apparel
Material quality, proper maintenance, and cost-eff ectiveness ensure optimal protection.
BY JEFF DULONG
safety of workers depends heavily on the protective clothing
In industries where fi re and electrical hazards are a risk, the
they wear. Flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) apparel
are essential in safeguarding against potential life-threatening
injuries. However, the eff ectiveness of this protective gear is not
only determined by its initial quality but also by its durability over
time. Safety managers, especially in the utilities, oil and gas, and
electrical industries, must understand the key factors that infl u-
ence the longevity of FR/AR apparel.
Material Considerations
Flame-resistant apparel is made to resist ignition and prevent the
spread of fl ames, while arc-rated apparel protects against electrical
arc fl ash hazards. Arc rating, measured in calories per square centi-
meter (cal/cm²), indicates a garment’s ability to withstand an elec-
trical arc event without breaking open, igniting or causing burns.
Th e durability of FR/AR clothing largely depends on the ma-
terials used in its construction. Common materials include engi-
neered cotton, Nomex, Kevlar, and blends of these fi bers with oth-
er synthetics, each with strengths and weaknesses for durability.
Engineered cotton, for instance, undergoes a chemical process
to impart fl ame-resistant properties. While cost-eff ective—if not
sourced from a reputable fabric manufacturer with a long-standing
history of providing the industry with reliable materials—these
types of fabrics can lose their fl ame-resistant qualities over time,
especially if not properly maintained. On the other hand, inher-
ently fl ame-resistant fi bers like Nomex maintain their protective
properties throughout the garment’s life, even aft er repeated wash-
ing and wear. Th ese materials are also known for their exceptional
strength, making them popular choices, especially for organiza-
tions that utilize industrial laundry rental programs.
Th e weave of the fabric also plays a signifi cant role. For exam-
ple, tighter weaves may provide greater resistance to wear and tear,
making the garment more durable. Additionally, certain weaves
can enhance the fabric’s ability to resist abrasion, further extending
the life of the apparel. Talk to the fabric manufacturer or request
more information from your garment provider about diff erent
weave options and their impact on durability.
Th e National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets stan-
dards for both FR and AR apparel to ensure they provide adequate
protection in hazardous environments, including NFPA 70E and
2112. Compliance with these standards is non-negotiable; how-
ever, ensuring that FR/AR garments remain compliant over time
requires attention to their durability. As garments age and endure
repeated laundering and exposure to harsh conditions, their pro-
tective properties can diminish if not sourced from a manufacturer
with a proven history in the marketplace and product guarantees
in place. It’s a safety manager’s job to stay vigilant in monitoring
the condition of protective apparel and replacing garments that no
longer meet the required standards.
Impact of Care and Maintenance Methods
One of the most critical aspects of maintaining the durability of
FR/AR apparel is proper laundering. Incorrect washing methods
can degrade the fabric and diminish the garment’s protective quali-
ties. Safety managers should establish strict laundering protocols,
whether the garments are washed in-house or by an industrial
laundry service. It’s essential to use detergents specifi cally designed
for FR clothing and to avoid harsh chemicals that can weaken the
fabric. Additionally, following the manufacturer’s care instructions
is crucial to preserving the durability and eff ectiveness of the ap-
parel.
When sourcing materials for PPE programs, a critical speci-
fi cation to include is a guarantee from the fabric manufacturer
that the FR protection will last the life of the garment. With more
knockoff and unproven import materials entering the U.S. mar-
ket, working with certifi ed manufacturers with these guarantees
in place will ensure that the protection characteristics of FR/AR
apparel remain intact even if the fabric itself begins to show signs
of wear and tear.
It’s important to know that the NFPA 70E standard only re-
quires fabric to maintain the required standards aft er 25 wash and
dry cycles, while fabrics that must adhere to the 2112 testing are re-
quired to meet standards set aft er 100 industrial laundering cycles.
Cost-Effectiveness and Durability
While durable FR/AR apparel may come with a higher initial cost,
it’s important to consider the long-term value these garments pro-
vide. Investing in high-quality, durable protective clothing can re-
duce the frequency of replacements, leading to cost savings.
Safety managers should weigh the initial investment against the
potential costs of frequent replacements and the risk of reduced
protection from worn-out garments. Sourcing materials from fab-
ric manufacturers with domestic facilities and customer service
teams can ensure any issues and claims are resolved quickly and
likely with no additional cost. Spending more upfront on durable
apparel can result in signifi cant savings over time, both in terms of
direct costs and in minimizing the risk of workplace injuries.
Maintenance practices directly impact the cost-eff ectiveness
of this specifi c type of PPE. By maintaining the integrity of the
protective clothing, safety managers can ensure workers remain
protected, minimizing the risk of costly accidents and injuries.
Diligent maintenance, such as training on care and selecting the
right laundering services, can also maximize return on invest-
ment.
Investing in high-quality FR/AR apparel and maintenance
practices enhances safety as well as cost-eff ective protection. By
prioritizing durability, safety managers can make the decisions that
safeguard their workforce and uphold the highest standards.
Jeff DuLong is senior sales manager at Westex: A Milliken Brand.
10 Occupational Health & Safety | OCTOBER 2024 www.ohsonline.com