FLASH
FIRE PROTECTION
The Hazard
A flash fire is a sudden, intense fire caused by ignition of a mixture of air and a dispersed flammable substance such as a solid (including dust), flammable or combustible liquid (such as an aerosol or fine mist), or a flammable gas. It is characterized by high temperature, short duration, and a rapidly moving flame front.
Flash fires are a significant occupational hazard in many industries such as the oil and gas industry, as well as manufacturing industries that generate combustible dust particulates through their ordinary course of work. Only a few seconds can make the difference between life and death. Protective clothing made of flame-resistant materials reduces or prevents thermal injury in the body areas that are covered by the flame-resistant material.
We offer a comprehensive range of UL Classified products conforming to NFPA 2112.
Suggested Norms
NFPA 2112
Protection against flash fire
Protection of industrial personnel against flash fire
This standard specifies the minimum performance requirements and test methods for FR fabrics and components, as well as the design and certification requirements for garments developed to protect workers from a flash fire hazard.
It requires FR fabrics to pass a comprehensive battery of thermal tests, including the following:
- ASTM D6413 – Vertical Flammability test Maximum two seconds after flame and four-inch char length
- ASTM F2700 – Heat Transfer Performance (HTP) test Minimum HTP of 6 cal/cm² spaced and 3 cal/cm² contact
- Thermal Stability test - Fabric must not melt or drip, separate or ignite after five minutes exposure in a 500°F or 260°C oven
- Thermal Shrinkage test- Fabric must not shrink more than 10% after five minutes exposure in a 500°F or 260°C oven
- ASTM F1930-11 – Thermal Mannequin test Maximum 50% predicted body burn after three-second thermal exposure
