How To Properly Layer FR Clothing
Understanding the proper way to layer FR clothing will help you to not only perform the task the correct way but also to help you realize the benefits of layering.
Certain jobs require different levels of arc rated protection and when done properly you can not only stay protected but also be more comfortable on the job by having less fabric on your body when it is not required and more for the short duration that it might take to perform a certain job task.
The method of determining the combination layering arc rating is not done by adding two fabric’s arc ratings together such as a 5.3 oz. under layer and a 4.5 oz. outer layer. The garments in question would actually have to be tested by a third party testing facility in order to label the combination as providing the appropriate protection.
A definite benefit of this method is that if a person is only required to wear a low level of protection for a certain job but a higher level for certain tasks that are performed on an irregular occasion they could get away with not having to wear excessive clothing that is unnecessary.
For example this could be achieved by wearing a light shirt and pants for an 8.2 cal rating for office work and throw on a 4.4 cal rating coverall to do a quick task that specifically requires at least 16 cal protection.
Please note that the cal rating achieved above is an example only and the garments being used must be tested by a third party testing laboratory like Underwriters to be able to know for sure what cal rating is being achieved with the given combination. This information can usually be obtained from certain manufacturers that have done the testing with specific garments.
This layering affect is also beneficial in either hot or cold weather. In the hot weather you can achieve the lowest possible cal rating that is still above the minimum requirement. In cold weather a person could layer up with more comfortable items according to the cold temperature being exposed to. For example a person could wear a shirt, pants and a sweatshirt in fall like weather and throw on a parka when it is very cold. Coming back inside the parka can then be taken off so as not to overheat in more reasonable temperatures.
Terry Smeader
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