June 23
OSHA Interpretation on FR Logos Puts Responsibility on the Employer
OSHA actually addressed logos for flame resistant clothing related to arc flash in an interpretation letter. This is interesting. They didn’t give specific guidance but indicated the employer is responsible.
For arc flash issues some use a non-melting thread like Nomex, Kermel or Conex. Other options are coming online all the time. I’d bet a modacrylic thread is available. Colors used to the the big limitation and non-melting threads were often more brittle. This is much easier to work with today with new thread technologies. Atlantic Thread is a supplier of these in the US and others are out there.
Non-FR embroidery works as long as the size is small. The burns I have seen are not from embroidery ignition but from sweat build up UNDER the embroidery which can happen with any embroidery. One manufacturer recommends nothing over a business card size and that seems like a good limit but the standards like ASTM F1506 do not put this limitation on the logo.
If cost is an issue, you will probably see that it isn’t much more than a dollar more for non-melting thread. The ones who charge more don’t usually do it much.
Click here to read the OSHA interpretation.
Click here to see the ASTM F1506 Standard which complies with NFPA 70E.
Click here to see the NFPA 2112 Standard for flash fire with its FR logo requirements.
