Flame Resistant Clothing
Flame Resistant (FR) garments are made from durable fabric that self-extinguishes and provides thermal insulation to the wearer and are designed to protect workers against extreme temperatures in the case of arc or flash fires. FR fabric does not ignite, burn, melt or drip when exposed to a flame. Although FR clothing will resist flame, it is important to note that FR clothing is fire resistant, not fireproof.
The Energy Networks Association’s (ENA) NENS 09-2014 is an Australian national guideline for the selection, use and maintenance of personal protective equipment for electrical arc hazards. Although it is not an Australian Standard, and therefore full compliance is not required, it provides a comprehensive guide to minimum levels of personal protective equipment required to protect workers against electrical hazards. NENS 09-2014 explains apparel design and features, material performance requirements and testing methods and compliance requirements for FR garments.
It is best to allow FR clothing to be laundered by professionals. Chlorine bleach and other hydrogen peroxides can be found in some detergents which can degrade the FR properties of the garment. Furthermore, industrial launders should remove all potentially flammable materials that can build up on the surface of a garment.
Cuts and open wounds are the third most common workplace injury. According to Safe Work Australia over 35% of all serious claims in 2019-2020 came from upper limb claims with the most coming from hand injuries. Most of these injuries come from sharp objects.
Browse the Bisley Premium Flame Resistant Range
Cut resistant clothing is made out of dense fabric that is able to withstand sharp objects. This is very helpful for workers who operate near sharp, heavy objects like drills, knives and saws. These types of clothing are an important safety measures to take in the case of an accident near sharp objects. It is important to remember that it is cut resistant, not cut proof. We have a range of cut resistant clothing including pants, gloves and sleeves.
There are three main standards world wide: The American (ANSI/ISEA 105-2011), the International (ISO 13997) and the European (EN388:2003) which Australia (AS/NZS 2161.3) has adopted. Australia follows the European testing by having 40mm diameter blade rotate back and forth under a fixed load until a cut is made. The damage is then compared to one made on a cotton canvas to scale in between 1-5. Click here to check out our EN 388 Glove post
The results will allow it to receive certification from CEN (European Committee from Standardisation) and its 'CE Mark' which confirms that is has been tested successfully.
As Australian follows the European Standard, the CE Mark can be found on many Australian products. EN388 is however, only a recommendation. As such, the standards are self-regulated and get away with un-substantiated cut resistant products.
ATOM can help you pick out accurately tested cut resistant products. We offer a wide range of gloves, sleeves and pants to suit your workplace.
Cut resistant clothing can be used in many different situations such as using any knives & blades