Caring for Your FR Workwear: Important Tips to Stay Safe

Flame-resistant (FR) workwear is a crucial piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) in industries where fire hazards are present. To ensure that your FR garments continue to provide the necessary protection and comply with industry regulations like NFPA 2112, it's essential to care for them properly. This guide provides valuable tips on washing, drying, and storing your FR workwear, along with recommendations for American-made products to help you maintain its effectiveness.

Quick Answers to Common FR Workwear Care Questions:

Question	Answer
Can you wash FR clothing?	Yes, most FR garments can be washed. However, always follow the manufacturer's specific care instructions.
Can you use stain remover on FR clothing?	Yes, but choose a product specifically designed for FR fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage the flame-resistant properties.
What detergent is safe for FR clothing?	Opt for a mild detergent formulated for FR fabrics, like Woolite FR Garment Wash. Avoid detergents containing chlorine bleach or fabric softeners.
Can you put FR clothing in the dryer?	Yes, most FR clothing can be dried in a dryer, but follow the care instructions. Some fabrics require low heat, while others can handle higher temperatures.
Can you iron FR clothing?	Yes, but use a low heat setting and avoid ironing directly onto any flame-resistant treatments.

 

Detailed Guide to Caring for FR Workwear

Washing FR Clothing

• Check the Care Label: Always refer to the care label on your FR garment for specific washing instructions. Different fabrics may have varying washing requirements.
• Separate Colors: Wash dark and light colors separately to prevent color bleeding.
• Use a Suitable Detergent: Choose a mild detergent formulated for FR fabrics to avoid damaging the flame-resistant properties.
• Wash on a Gentle Cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine.
• Avoid Bleach and Fabric Softener: These can degrade the FR treatment and compromise safety.

Drying FR Clothing

• Follow Care Instructions: Refer to the care label to determine the appropriate drying method (tumble dry low, hang dry, etc.). Excessive heat can shrink FR garments or damage the flame-resistant properties.
• Avoid High Heat: Even if the garment feels dry after a low-heat setting, consider additional air drying to ensure complete moisture removal.

Storing FR Clothing

• Clean Before Storage: Wash and dry your FR garments according to the care instructions before storing them. This removes dirt, sweat, and other contaminants that might compromise their effectiveness.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing FR clothing in damp or humid environments. Moisture can promote mildew growth and potentially damage the fabric.
• Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the color of FR garments and potentially weaken the fabric over time.

Maintaining Safety and Compliance with Regulations

Proper care and maintenance of FR workwear are crucial for ensuring the safety of workers in hazardous environments. Following these guidelines and using recommended American-made products will help your FR garments maintain their flame-resistant properties and comply with industry regulations like NFPA 2112.

By following these tips and using recommended products, you can extend the life of your FR workwear and ensure it continues to provide maximum protection. Remember, proper care is an essential investment in safety.

Sources for Further Information:

Learn more about the requirements when it comes to caring FR workwear in hazardous environments from the OSHA:

• Laundering Responsibilities for FR Clothing

Fireball Workwear: Committed to Your Safety

At Fireball Workwear, all of our FR garments meet or exceed industry standards, ensuring both safety and durability. Explore our extensive collection of FR garments designed to provide optimal protection in various work environments.

Browse our collection of FR garments to ensure you're always protected in the toughest environments.