What is better than one item of flame protective workwear? The answer is simple: two or more items of flame protective workwear. While each quality flame-protective garment should provide a relatively high level of protection, the key to comprehensive protection for firefighters and other workers is the layering of multiple garments. CHARNAUD® explains how layering creates a stronger, more effective barrier against flame and heat.

Building an Effective Protective Barrier Against Heat and Flame

Creating an effective flameproof PPE outfit involves multiple dimensions of layering. Firstly, garments such as jackets, trousers and overalls are designed and manufactured with multiple layers built into them. Secondly, wearers can enhance their protection by wearing these garments in conjunction with others, creating multiple strata of flame-retardant protection.

Effective flame protection involves at least four layers, each of which helps to keep the wearer safe and enhance their comfort. These include:

  • Base layer: This is the layer closest to the skin, providing comfort and keeping the wearer dry with moisture-wicking fabric and design.
  • Insulating layer: The next layer provides insulation for dual protection. On the one hand, it insulates against cold weather, and on the other hand, it also keeps the wearer from getting too hot under all those layers.
  • Protective layer: This is where the real flame, heat, or arc flash protection is to be found. Certified, flame-resistant (FR) fabric is used to create a protective shell around the wearer.
  • Outer layer: This adds an extra layer of insulation for effective protection against wind and rain.

Garments such as bunker suits and fire-fighting jackets each contain all of these layers. However, for maximum protection, work teams should be supplied with head-to-toe protective outfits that double up these layers with multiple garments, ensuring the most effective protection against open flame and extreme heat.

Read our blog for more tips and advice on all varieties of PPE.

CHARNAUD®’s Flame Protective Workwear

CHARNAUD’s follows these design and manufacturing principles in the production of our flame-resistant and thermal PPE ranges for firefighters (FIRE-SAFE®), electrical workers (SURVIVE-ARC®), workers who operate in sub-zero conditions (ZERO-TECH®), and more. These collections are made according to the highest international safety and quality standards and are guaranteed to keep workers safe, dry, cool and comfortable.

Trust CHARNAUD® for Your Quality Flame-Protective Workwear

CHARNAUD® is a supplier of quality firefighting equipment, as well as other safety gear. Contact us for advice and quotations on quality PPE, including firefighting gear and safety equipment for a host of other professions.

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