Fire Resistant

Flame-resistant apparel is the last barrier between a worker and a flash fire or arc flash, which makes it the one category where specification matters more than preference.

“Flame resistant” is not the same as “flame retardant.” Inherently flame-resistant fibres such as Nomex® cannot lose their protection. The resistance is part of the fibre itself and survives the life of the garment. Treated fabrics, typically FR cotton, gain their protection from a chemical finish; that finish is durable, and is still guaranteed for the life of the garment. However, the underlying materials themselves are not innately flameproof and can be degraded by the wrong detergent, bleach or fabric softener. Both are legitimate choices. They simply need different care.

Reading an arc rating. ATPV is expressed in cal/cm² and describes the incident energy a fabric can absorb before the onset of second-degree burn. A higher number means more protection and usually more weight. Our 6.0oz Nomex® IIIA coverall is rated ATPV 12.7 cal/cm²; the 7.0oz G2 coverall is rated ATPV 9.6. Your site’s hazard assessment determines the minimum you need — never select below it to save weight or cost.

Layering. A non-FR layer worn under FR clothing can melt against the skin in a flash fire. Anything worn beneath an FR garment should itself be FR or natural fibre.

All FR garments are available with custom embroidery. Request a quote for crew pricing.

Not sure which rating you need? What ATPV ratings mean and how to pick the right one

Showing all 10 resultsSorted by latest