Know Your Flame Resistant Clothing

What qualifies as “flame resistant” in clothing?

Flame Resistant Clothing is probably something we don’t give a second thought to, but should! Just what is it? Flame Resistant Clothing (FRC) is made from non-flammable materials that have an inherent ability to self-extinguish or burn very slowly. FRC is designed to provide protection against unpredictably occurring exposure to fire and extreme temperatures. The ability of FRC to self-extinguish can significantly reduce burn injuries and gives the wearer of the garment additional time to escape. This greatly increases the chance of survival if a person is caught in a flash fire, an electric arc, or another thermal hazard.

Why FRC is Necessary

A requirement of OSHA in many industries, FRC exists for very good reason. The use of FRC protects companies by serving as an insurance policy in the event of on-site accidents. The expense associated with just one employee burn injury could far outreach the cost of an entire FRC program. As an example, a utility company suffered a $1.5 million loss for the injury of one employee who was not protected with FR clothing. Unfortunately, that employee was permanently disabled. Since using FR clothing, another fire-related injury cost the company less than $40,000, and the employee suffered minor injuries and is still employed.

Caring for FRC

There are two basic types of FRC fabrics used to make flame-resistant garments - Inherent FRC and Treated FRC. Inherent FRC fabrics are engineered to be permanently flame-resistant, with FRC properties built into them at the molecular level. This technology does not wash out or wear out. An inherent FRC garment will always be FRC.

Treated FRC fabrics undergo an application process where the flame-resistant chemicals are applied to the fabric. This is not as effective or permanent as inherent FRC manufacturing. The FRC properties weaken over time and the protective properties wear out as the life of the garment ages. The useful life of a treated FRC garment is shortened by laundering, wear, abrasion, and UV exposure. Cotton is a flammable fabric and becomes dangerous when FRC treatments start to wear off.

If you prefer to wash your FRC garments yourself, never use chlorine bleach or liquid non-chlorine bleach. Starch and fabric softeners are also not recommended, as they coat the fibers and weaken the FRC performance. They can also work as fuel in the event of garment ignition. Also, be careful not over-dry garments in the dryer.

It is best to trust your garments to the professionals at Central Discount Cleaners who specialize in uniform cleaning and cleaning FRC garments. To learn what Central Discount Cleaners can do for you, visit our website or call us today at 815-726-1229. Be sure to ‘like’ us on Facebook to stay up to date on specials, events, and specials.