How to Understand FR Clothing Certifications
Flame-resistant (FR) clothing saves lives. It protects workers from serious burns during arc flashes, flash fires, and other heat-related hazards. But not all FR clothing is the same. Some meet strict safety standards, while others only claim to be protective.
That’s why it’s so important to understand the rules and certifications behind FR clothing. The two big players here are OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and ANSI (American National Standards Institute). Let’s break down what each does, what standards matter most, and how you can tell if your gear is truly compliant.
What OSHA Requires
OSHA doesn’t design FR clothing, but it does require employers to keep workers safe. That means:
- Checking for hazards – Employers must look at each job and decide if there’s a risk of fire, arc flash, or heat exposure.
- Providing FR gear – If there is a risk, employers must supply workers with the right FR clothing.
- Keeping clothing safe to use – Employers must replace damaged FR clothing and make sure it’s cleaned properly.
OSHA rules often point to other standards, like NFPA and ASTM, to define what “safe” FR clothing really means. For example:
- 29 CFR 1910.269 – Requires FR clothing for workers who face arc flash hazards.
- 29 CFR 1910.132 – Says all PPE, including FR clothing, must meet performance standards.
In short: OSHA sets the rules, but the details of what FR clothing must do come from other standards.
How ANSI Fits In
ANSI doesn’t make the fabric tests either, but it approves and coordinates safety standards. In FR clothing, ANSI often works with groups like:
- NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)
- ASTM International
- ISO/IEC (international groups)
If a standard has ANSI approval, it’s trusted across the industry and often used by OSHA to enforce safety.
The Standards You Need to Know
Here are the main FR clothing standards every employer and worker should recognize:
NFPA 2112
Covers clothing for flash fire protection. Garments must pass tests for flame resistance, heat resistance, and shrinkage. If a shirt or coverall is certified to NFPA 2112, the label will say so.
NFPA 70E
Focuses on electrical safety and arc flash. It uses “arc ratings” measured in calories per square centimeter (cal/cm²). Clothing must meet or exceed the hazard level found in a workplace’s arc flash study.
ASTM F1506
Applies to fabrics used in arc-rated clothing. It ensures materials won’t ignite or fall apart under arc flash conditions.
ANSI/ISEA 107
This one covers high-visibility clothing. Sometimes workers need gear that’s both FR and high-visibility. In those cases, garments must meet both standards.
How to Read FR Clothing Labels
The label on FR clothing tells you a lot. Look for:
- The standard it meets (NFPA 2112, ASTM F1506, etc.).
- The arc rating, if it applies.
- The manufacturer’s name and tracking number.
- Care instructions (important because wrong washing methods can ruin FR protection).
⚠️ Watch out for clothing that just says “FR treated.” Unless it’s third-party certified, it may not hold up after repeated washes.
Employer Responsibilities
If you’re an employer, here’s what OSHA and ANSI expect from you:
- Do a hazard assessment – Find out when FR clothing is required.
- Buy the right gear – Only purchase clothing with proper certification labels.
- Train workers – Explain why FR clothing matters, when to wear it, and how to care for it.
- Monitor clothing condition – Replace items that are torn, worn, or contaminated.
- Provide washing guidance – Workers should avoid bleach, fabric softener, and other chemicals that weaken FR fabrics.
Common Myths About FR Clothing
- “All FR gear is the same.” Wrong. Flash fire protection and arc flash protection are different.
- “Treated cotton is always enough.” Not true. Some treated fabrics lose resistance after washes.
- “If it’s hi-vis, it’s automatically FR.” False. Hi-vis clothing must carry a dual certification to be both visible and flame-resistant.
Why Certification Matters
The difference between certified and uncertified FR gear can be life or death. Certified clothing has been tested under tough conditions. It gives workers a fighting chance in an arc flash or fire. Uncertified gear may not.
For companies, compliance isn’t just about avoiding OSHA fines—it’s about protecting people. Workers go home safe when employers follow OSHA rules and buy clothing certified to NFPA, ASTM, and ANSI-recognized standards.
Understanding FR clothing requirements doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s the simple breakdown:
- OSHA: Requires employers to protect workers and provide FR clothing when hazards exist.
- ANSI: Approves the standards that define how FR clothing is tested and certified.
- NFPA and ASTM: Provide the actual performance requirements.
Employers should buy properly certified gear, train workers, and make sure clothing is cared for correctly. Workers should wear it every time, without shortcuts.
The result? Less risk, fewer injuries, and safer workplaces.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Join our Save-ty Club for exclusive deals and safety news. Sign up here.
Share this article on social media and tag us for a special discount on your next purchase.
Let's spread the word on staying safe!
Disclaimer: The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
The information on this site should not be construed as establishing any safety standard or as providing directives for compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or any other health and safety regulatory agencies. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. We do not accept any responsibility for any loss which may arise from reliance on information contained on this site.