Executing a wear trial may be the best way to obtain comprehensive information that will aid in your decision-making process for choosing the proper flame-resistant clothing (FRC) for your workforce.
The growing number of FRC options on the market offer a greater selection than ever before, but also complicate the evaluation process. The first step may be screening products to find those that meet all of the requirements for protection from hazards such as electric arc flash or flash fire. Finding the right FRC to satisfy your workforce requires working with fabric and garment manufacturers to find the best combination of fiber blend, fabric construction and weight for your application. Be sure to pay attention and ask questions. Look for the proof behind claims, and decide if the data is reasonable, substantial and relevant. It’s also important to understand the important role that wear trials can play in the selection process — laboratory tests and manufacturers’ claims can only take you so far.