Author: Phil Slade, 1222 Apparel Corp.
For professionals working in high-risk industries, safety is paramount. Flame-resistant (FR) clothing is a crucial line of defence against potential hazards, but did you know that layering FR clothing can enhance its protective capabilities? Layering not only provides additional insulation in cold weather but also plays a vital role in heat stress prevention during scorching summer months.
The Science Behind Layering: Understanding ATPV
Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) is a key metric used to assess the protective performance of FR clothing. It measures the level of thermal energy (cal/cm²) required to cause a second-degree burn through the fabric. While FR garments are designed to offer protection on their own, layering can significantly increase the ATPV, providing an extra layer of defense against arc flashes and other thermal hazards.
Testing Different Combinations: Unveiling True Protection
To determine the true protective value of layered FR clothing, comprehensive testing is essential. MWG conducts rigorous tests to evaluate various combinations of FR garments. These tests involve exposing the layered clothing to simulated arc flash scenarios, measuring the energy levels, and analyzing the results. The goal is to identify the optimal combinations that offer the highest level of protection without compromising comfort and mobility.
Layering for Cold Weather: The Ultimate Insulation
Working in cold weather poses unique challenges for professionals, and staying warm is vital for maintaining focus and productivity. Layering FR clothing with premium thermal base layers, mid-layers, and outer shells not only provides insulation but also allows for easy adaptation to changing weather conditions. Outer shells like the MWG STORMSHIELD FR Parka and the quilted FR Cooler Jacket trap body heat and cut cold wind from reaching your core. The combined ATPV of the clothing is also increased, ensuring that workers remain protected even in freezing temperatures.
Layering for Summer: Defending Against Heat Stress
Summertime can be sweltering, especially in industrial environments where heat stress is a genuine concern. The misconception that layering is only suitable for cold weather must be debunked. In reality, proper layering can still be beneficial during the summer months. Lightweight and breathable FR clothing, like the MWG EVOLUTION FR Henley or the MWG COMFORT WEAVE FR Button Up can be layered to create a cooling effect, wicking away sweat and preventing heat buildup. This layered approach ensures that workers are safeguarded from thermal hazards without sacrificing comfort in hot conditions.
A Year-Round Safety Solution
The significance of layering FR clothing goes beyond just boosting protection values. It offers a versatile solution for professionals working in diverse climates and environments. By investing in a well-thought-out combination of FR garments, workers can have peace of mind, knowing they are adequately shielded against potential dangers throughout the year.
Layering FR clothing is a powerful strategy that optimizes protection for professionals in high-risk industries. The process of testing different combinations to determine the true ATPV ensures that workers receive the highest level of safety possible. Whether it's the cold chill of winter or the scorching heat of summer, layering proves to be an indispensable tool for safeguarding against thermal hazards. Embrace the power of layering, and empower your workforce with the utmost protection, come rain or shine.
Phil Slade - 1222 Apparel Corp.