Top 10 FR Myths

Myth 1:
Cotton provides sufficient FR protection from electrical hazards

This is easily the most dangerous misperception of all. Not only is cotton 100% flammable, it will ignite and continue to burn long after being exposed to an ignition source. Most people recognize the burning and melting hazards of fibers such as nylon and polyester. But they often fail to recognize the dangers that cotton presents, especially considering that cotton can sometimes propagate flames more quickly than other fibers. In certain electric utility applications, 100% cotton is only acceptable for use when the exposed energy source is not sufficient to ignite the garment.

Myth 2:
FR garments are rigid and uncomfortable

In the past this may have been true. But today, a variety of new FR fabrics are available that include inherent blends and FR cotton blends that offer superior comfort over those from decades ago.

Myth 3:
Why do I need FR clothing? I've never had an accident

Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, and to anybody, regardless of past performance. The fact is that equipment breaks, people make mistakes and eventually a situation will arise with the potential of causing serious injury. The use of FR clothing and other personal protective equipment is the last line of defense when these incidents occur .

Myth 4:
FR clothing is too expensive

While FR clothing may be priced higher than standard work clothing, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial costs. For one, many FR garments have a significantly longer wear life than basic work clothing, providing a greater value on a cost per wear basis. Not to mention, the cost of one serious burn injury can be enormous, draining millions of dollars from your company’s bottom line. But more importantly, if FR clothing saves one life, there is no cost too great.

Myth 5:
If I'm hot, it's perfectly safe to roll my sleeves up while working

Unfortunately this can be a dangerous misperception. FR clothing can only provide protection where it separates the wearer from the ignition source. If the sleeves are rolled up or cut off, the exposed body parts are completely unprotected and will suffer the same injuries as if the garments had never been worn. Some company policies may allow for employees to unbutton their shirts or roll up their sleeves when not working around energized parts or other potential ignition hazards.

Myth 6:
Flame resistance doesn't last. It washes out.

That's incorrect. ARAMARK Uniform Services only offers FR garments that are protective for life. Our fabrics are either flame resistant inherently through man-made, synthetic fibers or via special fiber treatment. Most flame resistant garments can even be laundered at home. It is important to note that some FR fabrics' protective qualities may be compromised if laundered with certain chemicals, namely chlorine or hydrogen peroxide bleaches. As long as the garments are laundered to the fabric manufacturer's recommendations, the flame resistance will not "wash out."

Myth 7:
All FR fabrics are the same.

No, all FR fabrics are not created equally. Some are inherently flame resistant, while others are specially treated to provide such protection. Different fabrics also provide different levels of protection against various hazards. It is important for the employer to assess their workplace hazards and supply the appropriate fabric and garments to match their company's safety needs.

Myth 8:
We contract out our maintenance work. So we don't have to worry about OSHA coming down on us if our contractors don't wear the proper FR clothing.

Safety is your concern no matter who is employing the workforce. Even though you may have contracted employees working near an ignition source, you are responsible for ensuring their safety. OSHA can issue citations and fines to companies who do not require contractors to follow the same safety rules and use the same safety equipment (including FR clothing) as full-time employees.

Myth 9:
Home laundry is just as good as industrial laundry care.

Not always true. While it is acceptable to have workers launder their FR garments at home in most cases, it is always best to let a professional industrial laundry service care for these garments. Some common home laundry processes, such as the use of chlorine bleach, can degrade the protective qualities of the garments. Not to mention, routine industrial laundering methods can best remove potentially flammable materials and soils that may build-up on the surface of the safety garments.

Myth 10:
FR garments provide the same protective qualities as those worn by my local firefighters.

No, your FR garments are made to withstand momentary heat and ignition sources. They are secondary protection against burn injuries, unlike the primary protection gear your local fire department uses. Be sure your employees follow all manufacturer's regulations on the proper use of their FR garments and PPE.