A November accident in Salt Lake City, Utah, should serve as a reminder to employers and workers about the importance of wearing flame-resistant clothing.
How a Worker Survived
According to the local Fox-13 affiliate in Salt Lake City, a utility transformer exploded while a worker was working in a nearby truck’s bucket above the ground. As a result of the explosion, oil from the transformer caused the worker’s truck to catch fire.
With little time to spare, the employee’s nearby co-workers performed a rescue operation. The worker caught above the flames escaped with minor burns to his neck, but his injuries could have been much worse.
Fire-resistant clothing saved that worker’s life. This incident is one more example of the incredible value provided by FR clothing.
When is Flame-resistant Clothing Needed?
Workers can wear FR clothing throughout any workplace where flames pose a danger. But electrical employees face the biggest risk because of electric arcs, according to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Electric arcs (sometimes referred to as arc blasts) emit temperatures hotter than the sun’s surface, usually in seconds. If a worker is exposed to arc blasts, he or she will suffer serious injuries.
What are the Injuries?
OSHA stated arc blast-related injuries include:
- Hearing loss
- Memory loss
- Blindness
- Minor to severe burns
- Death
Flame-resistant clothing can prevent those injuries from occurring, which is why it’s important the right type of shirts, pants and jackets are worn.
The Standards for FR Clothing
OSHA has one standard in place to ensure clothing protects workers: (1910.269(l)(6)).
According to this regulation, clothing that could ignite, continue to burn and melt to an individual’s skin is prohibited. This standard bans clothing made from synthetic materials, like polyester, from being worn around a work site.
Instead, FR clothing should be made from 100 percent cotton or wool, as long as its weight is appropriate for the flame and electric arc conditions at a workplace. Any clothing that continues to burn after ignition doesn’t meet OSHA’s 269 standard.
There are no safety shortcuts. Companies need to outfit their workers with FR clothing.
One reminder, though all arc rated clothing is flame resistant, not all flame resistant clothing is safe for arc dangers. See our blog regarding understanding the difference between AR clothing and FR clothing.
Employers unsure of what type of FR clothing to get should contact Border States Electric. We offer a wide range of flame-resistant clothing suitable for any work environment.
Read more:
Understanding the Difference Between AR and FR Clothing
What is the Differences Between FR and Nonflammable PPE?
TLC for FRC: Caring for Flame Resistant Clothing at Home
Stay FR Compliant with Employee Allowance Service
Consider Comfort to Ensure FR Clothing Compliance
Understanding Arc Rating for Protective Clothing
Be Safe and Plan Ahead: FR, Heat and Staying Cool
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Arc Flash Clothing
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Protective Clothing
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