Flame retardant workwear: what it is and why it’s important

Flame retardant workwear isn’t just for firefighters. It’s essential in any workplace where exposure to heat, flames, and ignition sources is a daily concern.

Safety plays a key role in the workplace of any business and at Your Workwear, we know that in sectors such as manufacturing, petrochemical, and utilities, flame retardant workwear isn’t a choice; it’s an essential part of day-to-day safety, and a non-negotiable requirement. But what exactly is flame retardant workwear, when is it necessary, and what different types are available? That’s what we’re going to explore in today’s blog post.

How does flame-retardant clothing work?

Garments that are specially designed to protect the wearer from flames and thermal hazards are essential in many industries. This type of clothing resists ignition and can self-extinguish once the source of ignition is stopped, thus preventing burns from both the initial exposure and heat transfer.

Why is flame retardant workwear important?

Flame retardant workwear is necessary for any employee who is exposed to open flames, works around flammable liquids or vapours, or is exposed to ignition sources, and therefore must be protected from the associated risks. Such risks go far beyond the obvious examples of burns, injury, or smoke inhalation, and can also encompass lesser-known hazards, from the likes of heat stress and toxic fumes to arc flash and electric shocks.

This is why flame retardant clothing is an essential safety measure, not only for those exposed to open flames, but also for the likes of welders, electrical workers, those in the oil and gas industries, and even those working in research labs where hazardous chemicals and equipment such as bunsen burners may be present. Protective clothing that has been treated with flame-resistant properties plays a crucial role in preventing and mitigating risks to these workers, allowing them to carry out their jobs safely.

Protection against thermal hazards

When workers are exposed to high temperatures and potential fire hazards, flame retardant workwear acts as a barrier against thermal hazards that could otherwise cause severe injuries. The ability of these garments to resist ignition and slow down the spread of flames can be a lifesaver in emergencies.

Compliance with safety standards

Regulatory bodies in various industries often mandate the use of flame-retardant workwear to ensure compliance with safety standards. Adhering to these standards not only safeguards the well-being of your workforce but also helps your company remain compliant and avoid potential fines or legal disputes.

Enhanced worker confidence 

Providing flame-retardant workwear sends a clear message to your employees that their safety is a top priority for you. When workers feel secure in their environment, their confidence increases, and they can focus on doing their best work. This positive atmosphere not only fosters productivity but also helps you to retain skilled and experienced personnel who value responsible employers, thus contributing to the overall success of your business.

What sort of flame-retardant workwear is available?

In order to choose the right flame-retardant workwear for your staff, you need to consider the specific needs of your industry and the working conditions that your employees face on a day-to-day basis. Below, we’ve put together a breakdown of the different types of flame-retardant workwear that are available on the market, all of which are on offer here at Your Workwear.

• Boilersuits – Coveralls or boilersuits are an all-in-one solution for full-body protection and are ideal for situations where the risk of exposure to thermal hazards is high.
• Jackets and trousers –  For a more versatile approach, flame-retardant jackets and trousers can be worn as separates, allowing workers to easily tailor their protection to the specific needs of the task at hand.
• Helmets and hoods – Protection is not limited to clothing; flame-retardant helmets and hoods shield the head and neck from potential hazards, and these accessories are crucial in ensuring comprehensive safety.

How can Your Workwear help?

Here at Your Workwear, we take pride in offering a diverse range of flame-retardant clothing that meets industry standards whilst providing comfort for workers and can offer tailored advice on which products are best for the needs of your business. Choose Your Workwear, and you can be confident that our commitment to safety is reflected in the quality and durability of our products, providing you with peace of mind in your investment.

Looking to purchase durable, high-quality flame retardant clothing for your business? Browse our full selection here, or call us on 0191 499 0001 to speak to one of our friendly team members about your needs.