What Features Are Important In FR Rainwear?

When selecting FR (Flame Resistant) Rainwear, several features are crucial to ensure safety and comfort for the wearer, especially in hazardous work environments. These features include:

1. Flame Resistance: The primary feature of FR rainwear is its ability to resist ignition and self-extinguish once the ignition source is removed. This is vital for protecting wearers from brief exposures to flames and thermal exposures.
2. Compliance with Safety Standards: FR rainwear should meet relevant safety standards like NFPA 70E, NFPA 2112, ASTM F1506, ASTM F2733 and ASTM F1891. These standards ensure the garment’s performance in protecting against electrical arc flash and flash fire hazards.
3. Durability: The material should be durable to withstand the rigors of the work environment without compromising its flame-resistant properties. This includes resistance to tearing, abrasion, and repeated washing.
4. Waterproof and Breathability: Since the rainwear is used in wet conditions, it should be waterproof. Breathability is also important to prevent overheating and reduce sweat buildup, enhancing wearer comfort.
5. Comfort and Fit: Ergonomic design, flexibility, and lightweight materials can improve comfort and mobility. Proper fit is essential to ensure that the garment does not impede movement, which is crucial for tasks that require agility.
6. Visibility: For workers in low-light conditions, high-visibility features such as reflective strips are essential for safety. This is especially crucial in construction, road work, and emergency services. Be sure your FR rain gear is compliant to ANSI/ISEA 107.
7. Chemical Resistance: Depending on the work environment, resistance to chemicals, oils, and other industrial fluids can be an important feature to protect the wearer and prolong the life of the garment.
8. Arc Rating: For electrical work, the arc rating (expressed in cal/cm²) indicates the level of protection against electrical arc hazards. The higher the rating, the greater the protection.
9. Burn injury prediction: For flash fire protection, it is important to understand the predicted burn injury percentage. The lower the percentage of 2nd and 3rd degree burns, the greater chance of survivability.
10. Layering Capability: The ability to layer the rainwear with other protective clothing without compromising its protective features can be important in various climates and work conditions.
11. Hood and Closure Design: A well-designed hood that does not obstruct vision and effective closure systems (like zippers or storm flaps) are essential for maximizing protection against the elements and potential hazards.
12. Easy Maintenance: The rainwear should be easy to clean and maintain without losing its protective properties. This includes being machine washable and having colorfastness to prevent fading.

These features collectively ensure that the FR rainwear provides the necessary protection against fire and electrical hazards and remains functional and comfortable for the wearer during long working hours in challenging conditions.

At NASCO Industries, our journey in innovating FR rainwear has been responsive and forward-thinking. As we adapt to the dynamic changes in the industry and integrate advanced technologies, our primary mission remains to protect workers from the hazards of Flash Fires and Arc Flash. Our commitment to safety is woven into every garment we create, ensuring they meet the highest standards of protection, comfort, and durability. With over 40 years of experience, we have built a legacy of trust and reliability in worker safety, standing as a beacon of quality and assurance in the protective clothing industry — a legacy we are proud to continue and expand with each passing year.