Proper Use of FR Clothing

Flame Resistant (FR) clothing is a mandatory part of PPE programs across a vast range of industries. Knowing the proper use, care & maintenance of FR clothing is crucial to assuring the safety of workers. NFPA 2113 is the “Standard on Selection, Care, Use, and Maintenance of Flame-Resistant Garments for the Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Flash Fire.” We have outlined some items below, but to read the full code, visit the above link.

  • Flame-resistant garment collars should be worn closed.
  • Sleeves and cuffs should be worn down and secured.
  • When a shirt and pair of trousers, both flame-resistant is worn together, the shirt should be tucked in.
  • If occupational hazards warrant use, then protective neck, head, hand, and foot coverings should be worn.
  • Do not wear non-flame-resistant clothing over flame-resistant garments.
  • Keep flame-resistant garments clean.
  • Keep gloves free of flammable contaminants or dispose of properly.
  • New flame-resistant garments should be washed or dry-cleaned at least once prior to their initial use.
  • Clean flame-resistant garments contaminated by flammable substance.
  • Do not launder contaminated FR garments in public facilities.
  • Do not store FR garments in direct sunlight.
  • Storage areas for FR garments should be clean, dry and well ventilated.
  • Do not store soiled FR garments with personal belongings.
  • Retire worn out FR garments.

washing fr uniforms

Washing FR Clothing

Properly caring for FR Clothing is extremely important in order to maintain the flame-resistant properties.  Below our our guidelines for CrudeFR Garments, but it is important to always follow manufacturer instructions.

  1. SPOT-TREAT STAINS
    Spot treat stains prior to washing.
  2. TURN INSIDE OUT
    Washing FR garments inside out will help reduce wear and tear
  3. WASH SEPARATE
    Do not launder FR garments with normal clothing.
  4. USE SMALL WASH LOADS
    This will help to reduce wear, and also insure cleaning.
  5. USE WARM WATER
    Washing in warm water helps to remove dirt and debris.
  6. TUMBLE DRY LOW
    Use the low, permanent press, or less dry setting.

Washing Gloves

FOR BEST RESULTS:
Machine wash with powdered detergent. Air or machine dry.

DO NOT USE

  • Liquid chlorine bleach
  • Fabric Softener
  • Starch
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Oversized loads
  • Rig Wash

Inspection & Maintenance

  • Inspect FR garments after each use for damage, soiling, or contamination.
  • Inspect for fabric or material damage.
  • Inspect seams and hardware such as zippers, buttons, snaps and fasteners.
  • Take damaged FR garments out of use.

Removing FR Garments from Service

Use these below guidelines to inspect and evaluate FR garments to
dispose of. Immediately take the garment out of service if it is
indicative of any below descriptions.

removing fr uniforms from service

  1. Frayed Collar
  2. Frayed Cuffs
  3. Torn, open seams
  4. 1” or Larger Hole
  5. Non-cleanable Oil / Stain
  6. Thread-Bare

Questions?

If you have any questions about caring for any of your CrudeFR Garments, please do not hesitate to contact us.