MAKING SURE FR IS PROPERLY CARED FOR
For PPE to effectively protect a worker, it must be maintained. The policies employers create need to address how workers are caring for their PPE.
Most industry standards point to manufacturer recommendations, while others provide specific instruction and guidance.
But there are consistent rules that apply, and in general no special processes or equipment are needed to clean FR clothing.
Following a few basic guidelines that will maximize the protective capabilities of FR/AR clothing:
- Do not use bleaches or peroxides
- Do not use any additives, such as fabric softeners or starch, that could build up to impede FR performance
- Do avoid washing in hard water as mineral buildup can negate the FR properties over the course of many launderings
- Do wash FR garments separately from other garments
- Do wash FR garments inside out to help with color retention and preserve the appearance
- Do use liquid detergent for best results
- Do avoid extreme washing and drying temperatures to reduce shrinkage
- Do soak garments in liquid detergent or non-bleach, non-peroxide pre-wash stain removers to address tough stains
- Do dry clean garments with really bad stains
- Do tumble dry on low settings and never over dry
- Do rewash garments with lingering odor
TOP 5 TIPS TO CARE FOR FR
Professional jobsite appearance without sacrificing protection.
#1
Stain or no stain, if it smells gassy, it needs cleaning. Any odor of oil, solvents, flammable chemicals, or other potential accelerants should be taken seriously as it could indicate the presence of a combustible substance.
#2
Washing with bleach or peroxide will harm flame resistant fabrics. Don’t use these laundry products alone or as additives to detergent.
#3
Any kind of buildup on the surface of the garment fibers is dangerous. The obvious clothing treatments or additives include starch, fabric softener, and DEET-based insect repellant.
#4
Hard water is another important thing to consider. Laundering FR clothing in hard water, if done repeatedly, can negate the FR characteristics of the garment, and may serve as fuel if exposed to an ignition source.
#5
If FR clothing is damaged, it can be repaired, but it needs to be done right. Holes, tears, or damaged closure systems, such as broken zippers or missing buttons, can be repaired as long as the garment’s flame resistant integrity is maintained. Only flame resistant fabric and flame resistant thread may be used for repairs. ASTM F 1449 provides specific guidance for returning FR garments to service.
Handle alterations and fix-ups with care and intention.
TWO IMPORTANT NOTES
The law requires that employers establish and maintain an oPPE. This includes FR clothing, but for many companies, compliance efforts fade once a program has been implemented.
Whether workers are part of a company sponsored uniform or laundry program, or are caring for their garments at home, it is up to the employer to ensure that the status of the PPE used in the field is monitored and managed on a regular basis.
Bulwark FR | 545 Marriott Dr., Ste. 100 | Nashville, TN 37214 | 800-733-5271
Bulwark FR is a brand of Workwear Outfitters LLC | 2023 Workwear Outfitters LLC. All Rights Reserved.