Product Training

Apparel Supply provides comprehensive training and support to our customers as per PPE Directive for manufacturers of complex PPE. Complex PPE is required to be worn by workers who face high probability of experiencing exposure to life threatening injuries in their now normal working environment, e.g. Fire Fighters.

User Instruction, Training  & Safety Guide for FR Apparel.

The following is a brief overview of the training carried out by Apparel Supply.
FR & ARC Apparel is used in extremely dangerous work situations. The circumstances of each hazardous situation is unique and often impossible to predict. Training is to help workers understand their Protective Apparel and understand how to use it in the safest possible manner during dangerous work situations. Training provides the user with guidance on the use, inspection, care, maintenance, storage and retirement of Apparel.
Apparel Supply training covers wearers responsibility with regard to their Protective Apparel, including;

On completion we issue Accredited Training Certificates to both the Fire Service and to the individual Fire Fighters.

What Is An Arc Flash?

An arc flash is a sudden release of electrical energy that occurs when current jumps across a gap between two conductors or from a conductor to a ground. The arc flash generates an intense burst of heat and light that can cause serious injuries, damage to equipment, and fires.

Arc flashes can occur in a wide range of electrical systems and equipment, including switchgear, transformers, motors, and other high-voltage components. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including equipment failure, human error, or a short circuit.

The intense heat generated by an arc flash can cause severe burns, as well as ignite clothing and other materials in the surrounding area, leading to secondary fires. The bright light from the arc flash can also cause temporary or permanent vision damage.

To prevent arc flash incidents, it’s important to follow proper electrical safety procedures, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), de-energizing equipment before working on it, and maintaining a safe distance from energized equipment.

Understanding Arc Ratings and Calories

Now that you understand FR clothing is tested and given an arc rating, you know that the arc rating measures the amount of heat the flame resistant fabric blocks when exposed to electric arc. The arc rating is the number of calories that the garment is expected to “absorb” if exposed to an electric arc. Arc rating is, in essence, the level of protection provided to you, the wearer.

Calorie is the unit of measure of the heat energy of an arc flash and the protective level of FR clothing. The bigger the calorie number, the greater the heat energy level of arc flash and the greater the protective level of the clothing. You will be protected from an electric arc if your clothing has a higher calorie arc rating than the calories of heat generated by the arc.

While it does not matter if the fabric has an Ebt,  ATPV and or ELIM value, it is important to pay attention to the calorie level the fabric can support* (as expressed in cal/cm2)