Flame Resistant (FR) and Arc Rated protective clothing plays a critical role in protecting workers exposed to electrical, thermal, and industrial hazards. Understanding the meaning of FR clothing icons and compliance standards helps ensure the correct PPE is selected for the job.
This guide explains the key flame resistant workwear symbols, safety certifications, and performance ratings used in industrial PPE across Australia and international standards.
ANTI-STATIC
Designed to reduce the build-up of excess static electricity. This offers protection against ignition hazards such as flammable materials, fuels, vapours, and gases.
Anti-static properties are essential in environments where even a small discharge of static electricity can create a serious safety risk.
ANTISTATIC EN 1149-5: 2018
Meets the performance requirements of:
EN 1149-5:2018 Protective Clothing – Electrostatic Properties – Part 5: Material Performance and Design Requirements.
This standard ensures garments are designed to minimise electrostatic charge build-up and reduce the risk of ignition in explosive or flammable atmospheres.
ARC THERMAL PERFORMANCE VALUE (ATPV)
Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) measures the energy required to pass through a fabric and cause a second or third-degree burn with 50% probability. The value is measured in calories/cm².
Simply put, the ARC rating indicates how much protection a fabric provides against electrical arc flash hazards.
- Higher ATPV rating = greater protection
- Required for garments used in electrical hazard environments
- Must be clearly indicated by manufacturers when arc protection is claimed
For more information, visit www.nfpa.org
ENA NENS 09
ENA NENS 09 complies with national guidelines for the:
Selection, use, and maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for electrical hazards.
This guideline supports safe PPE practices for workers exposed to high-voltage electrical environments.
FLAME RESISTANT
Flame Resistant garments are designed to:
- Inhibit ignition
- Reduce or limit combustion
- Self-extinguish when exposed to flame
Workers must ensure all workplace hazards are assessed before selecting appropriate FR clothing.
For best performance:
- Wear garments correctly
- Maintain proper fit
- Follow correct laundering and maintenance procedures
HI-VIS DAY
A garment that uses high-visibility materials designed for daytime use only.
- Hi-vis material must encircle the upper torso
- Complies with AS 4602.1:2011 Hi-vis Safety Garments Class Day
These garments are commonly used in construction and industrial sites operating during daylight hours.
HI-VIS DAY/NIGHT
Designed for use in all lighting conditions including:
- Day
- Night
- Dawn
- Dusk
- Poor weather conditions with vehicle headlights
Complies with:
AS 4602.1:2011 Hi-vis Safety Garments Class Day/Night
This is the most commonly required standard for 24/7 worksites.
HI-VIS NIGHT
Garments designed specifically for night-time visibility using retro-reflective materials.
- Enhances visibility under artificial lighting
- Suitable for low-light or night operations
- Complies with AS 4602.1:2011 Hi-vis Safety Garments Class Night
ISO 11612:2015
Certified to:
ISO 11612:2015 Protective Clothing – Clothing to Protect Against Heat and Flame Standard
This international standard specifies requirements for garments designed to protect workers from heat and flame exposure.
LIGHTWEIGHT FABRIC
Lightweight fabric construction is designed to:
- Improve breathability
- Reduce heat stress
- Enhance all-day comfort
- Support mobility in physically demanding jobs
Ideal for hot Australian working conditions.
MOISTURE MANAGEMENT
Moisture management fabrics are engineered to:
- Wick moisture away from the skin
- Dry quickly during physical activity
- Improve airflow and breathability
- Keep workers dry and comfortable
These features are especially important in high-intensity industrial environments.
NFPA 70E
Tested to:
NFPA 70E:2015 Electrical Safety in the Workplace Standard (USA)
This standard defines safety requirements for workers exposed to electrical arc flash risks, including PPE selection and arc-rated clothing requirements.
NFPA 2112 (2018)
Certified to:
NFPA 2112: Flame-Resistant Garments for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Flash Fire
This certification ensures garments provide protection against sudden flash fire hazards in industrial environments.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
Arc-rated clothing selected to meet required minimum incident energy exposure levels (cal/cm²), tested in accordance with:
NFPA 70E:2015 – Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace
This ensures workers are protected against arc flash hazards in electrical environments.
EXCELLENT UPF RATING
Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) measures how much UV radiation penetrates fabric and reaches the skin.
- Higher UPF = better protection
- Recommended UPF 50+ for excellent sun protection
- Complies with AS/NZS 4399:2017 Sun Protection Clothing Classification
This is especially important for outdoor workers exposed to Australia’s high UV conditions.
WATER RESISTANT 10K
Water-resistant garments are constructed using fabrics tested under pressure measured in millimetres (mm).
- 10K rating = high water resistance level
- Designed to protect against rain and wet working conditions
- Suitable for outdoor industrial and construction environments
Final Note on FR Workwear Safety
Choosing the right flame resistant and arc-rated clothing is essential for workplace safety compliance. Always ensure garments meet the required Australian and international standards for your industry, and select PPE based on your specific hazard exposure.
At Kaya Workwear, we supply compliant FR clothing designed for durability, protection, and comfort in demanding work environments.