👕 Fire-Resistant Clothing Maintenance: Field Edition

Fire-resistant (FR) clothing is a critical line of defense for workers exposed to flash fires, arc flashes, or other thermal hazards. But even the best FR gear won’t protect your team if it’s poorly maintained. In rugged worksites like oilfields, construction zones, and industrial plants, proper fire-resistant clothing maintenance is key to extending protective performance, meeting OSHA and NFPA standards, and keeping your team safe.

This Field Edition guide breaks down everything you need to know to keep FR clothing effective, even in the harshest job conditions.

🛡️ Why Proper FR Clothing Maintenance Matters

🔥 Retains Protective Properties
Dirt, oils, and flammable contaminants can compromise FR fabrics, increasing burn risks.

🔥 Ensures Compliance
Neglecting maintenance can lead to violations of OSHA 1910.132 or NFPA 2112 standards.

🔥 Protects Investment
Well-maintained FR gear lasts longer, saving you replacement costs.

✅ Field-Friendly FR Clothing Care Tips

Keep your team’s FR gear effective with these field-tested best practices:

• Inspect Daily – Look for tears, holes, or signs of wear before each use. Small rips can eliminate flame resistance in those areas.

• Wash Regularly – Launder FR garments according to manufacturer guidelines, even in the field. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which can degrade FR treatments.

• Remove Flammable Soils Promptly – Fuel, oil, or grease must be cleaned off immediately. FR clothing with flammable contamination can ignite and burn.

• Store Properly – Hang garments in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and chemicals that could damage fibers.

• Repair Correctly – Use only FR-rated thread and patches; regular materials can create ignition points.

• Educate Workers – Train crews on why and how to maintain their FR gear; empower them to take ownership of their safety.

⚠️ Common FR Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Using industrial laundry services without confirming they follow FR-safe processes.
🚫 Overdrying garments in high heat, which can shrink or damage FR fabrics.
🚫 Mixing FR and non-FR clothing in the same wash, risking contamination.

📢 Call-to-Action

Protect your crew with FR gear that actually works! Contact us today at (701) 572-8140 for on-site training in FR clothing maintenance, inspections, or compliance audits.

🔎 Conclusion: Maintain FR Gear, Maintain Safety

FR clothing is your frontline defense — but it only works if it’s cared for correctly. By adopting proactive maintenance habits in the field, you’ll protect your workers, meet OSHA and NFPA requirements, and maximize your investment in safety. Don’t let poor upkeep compromise your team’s lives — keep FR gear ready when it matters most.