You might think you can’t have protection from flash fires and Arc Flash in the same garments, but you’d be mistaken. ProGARM’s range of Arc Flash PPE also has built-in flash fire protection. Here’s what you need to know.
What is a flash fire and where are they a risk?
Flash fires are one of many potential dangers to people who work in high-risk environments.
They happen when fuel or flammable liquids mix with air and combust, spreading flames almost at the speed of sound.
According to research by the Health and Safety Executive, the type of workplaces that are at risk include chemical facilities, foundries, manufacturers and garages.
Without the right protective gear millions of people would be at risk of sustaining life changing thermal injuries. How many are still not properly protected though?
Fortunately, at ProGARM we have developed a wide-range of clothing that can protect people from flash fires and particularly against the thermal pressures of Arc Flash incidents. As these incidents can produce temperatures of up to 19,000ºC – almost four times hotter than the sun – it means that our products are also capable of offering protection against flash fires.
The highest standards of protection
At ProGARM, we are dedicated to producing safety clothing to the highest standards. This means that the garments we provide have been designed by specialists and rigorously tested to meet international safety standards but they also need to pass our rigorous quality inspections too.
Our garments are FR certified to BS EN ISO 11612, which ensures wearers are protected against heat and flame hazards and replaces the previous EN531 standard.
By adhering to this up-to-date standard, our products are certified to the latest specifications and requirements. They are intended for a wide range of uses and provide protection against various hazards including radiant heat, convective heat and splatters of molten metal, all of which could cause real harm.
And in an added bonus to those just looking for flash fire protection, all of our garments also provide protection against the thermal hazards of Arc Flash, which is governed by international standard IEC 61482-2:2018.
A rigorous testing process
When lives are at stake it is important to maintain high standards, which is why we never supply a product without it going through a rigorous testing process.
Testing garments for Arc Flash certification under BS EN ISO 11612 there two prescribed test methods to show the level of protection a garment provides against the thermal pressures of Arc Flash.
Firstly, there is the Open Arc method which sets out to determine the maximum amount of thermal energy the garment can withstand before the wearer is subjected to 2nd degree burns. This is a safe and proven method of demonstrating that Arc Flash clothing can protect you from an incident.
Secondly, there is the Box Test method where a fabric sample is exposed to an electric Arc for only milliseconds. Then we analyse the data collected on the heat transmitted to determine how the fabric will manage.
You can see these blink-and-you-will-miss-it tests for yourself in these videos we have recorded.
Components that work when you need them most
We don’t just look at the fabric when it comes to producing these garments, as every element of the garment needs to be flame resistant and Arc Flash durable.
At ProGARM, we use ThermSAFE components which have also been rigorously tested against Arc Flash incidents. Our zips, poppers, buttons and velcro patches are all flame resistant and can withstand high-temperatures. This means that if you were exposed to a flash fire they will not melt and you can still unfasten everything if you need to remove your clothing fast and receive first aid.
High-temperatures. High-performance.
At ProGARM, we have made it our mission to help operatives get home safely every day. By providing high-quality protective clothing, which can withstand the extreme temperatures of flash fires, we can help your team stay safe should the worst ever happen.
If you are looking to increase protection for your team you can speak to one of our friendly experts, who are part of a team of sector specialists who understand the requirements and needs of your industry.
They are always happy to help, so give them a call on 44 (0) 1482 679600 or email info@progarmcurrent.wpengine.com
Make sure that you’re specifying the right PPE for your team.
Read our free guide on the top considerations when choosing Arc Flash clothing & PPE below and make the best choice for you and your team via the link below ⬇.
