Arc-rated clothing and flame-resistant clothing are designed to protect workers from arc-flash and flash-fire hazards, respectively.
What’s the difference between the two?
AR clothing is specifically tested and rated for protection against the heat and energy of an electric arc. FR clothing, on the other hand, won’t ignote or burn in other fire-related incidents.
We spoke with Paul Sung, marketing manager at Protective Industrial Products, who shared his thoughts on the state of the FR/AR protective clothing industry.
What developments are happening in AR/FR protection?
Sung: When it comes to FR/AR products, most innovations stem from advancements in engineered fabrics and materials.
Traditionally, garments with higher arc ratings have been thick and often made with multiple fabric layers to achieve the desired protection. These types of garments can be difficult to work in because of limited mobility and poor breathability.
Now, we’re seeing a shift toward innovative, high-performance fabrics that provide the same high arc ratings while being lightweight and exceptionally comfortable. These attributes make it easier for workers to wear the proper AR garments while performing critical tasks, without sacrificing comfort or mobility.
What do you wish employers and workers better understood about using AR/FR products in the workplace?
Sung: I wish more safety managers and workers understood that they’re not stuck with the same traditional options.
There are newer garments on the market that directly address the pain points we hear most often, mainly that these garments are hot, stiff and uncomfortable to work in.
Like anything else, innovation continues to move forward. Today’s high-performance FR/AR garments offer the protection you need with improved comfort, mobility and breathability.
What concerns or questions are customers coming to you with regarding AR/FR products? What advice do you provide?
Sung: When workers try on high AR garments made with newer, high-performance fabrics, their first reaction is often one of disbelief that a single-layer garment can offer the same level of protection as the traditional multilayered styles that are on the market.
That skepticism isn’t unreasonable – the difference in feel is significant.
But that’s exactly where technology has taken us.
We reassure them with test data and help them understand how these fabrics are engineered to deliver to them both comfort and high-level arc-flash protection.
Compiled with the assistance of the International Safety Equipment Association
Coming next month:
- Eye/face protection
- First aid
