The primary decision when implementing a flame-resistant clothing program, and consequently the first thing specified by the majority of people, is the flame-resistant (FR) fabric brand(s).

When selecting FR fabrics, safety pros can enlist the help of industry performance standards, such as ASTM F-1506 for arc flash and NFPA 2112 for flash fire. However, these standards are designed to represent a minimum performance criteria; they are intended to be used as the starting point, not the finish line, when evaluating FR clothing.

Many people believe that switching from poly/cotton blend work garments to non-flame resistant 100% cotton is an “upgrade” in safety when it comes to electric arc flash. Safety experts across the country today are busy trying to dispel this very dangerous myth.