How do they test FR Workwear?

Posted on May 7, 2013 by admin

How do they test FR Workwear?

How do they test FR Workwear?

Tecasafe Plus vs Poly Cotton Workwear

Every day, workers around the world are risking their lives as they are exposed to the risk of flash fire, electrical arc flash and molten metal splash. In the split second when such a dangerous situation does occur, providing the right FR clothing can make the difference between avoiding a disaster involving serious injury, or death.

In a matter of seconds, a momentary electric arc, flash fire or molten metal splash exposure can surround a worker with searing temperatures that will ignite everyday non-flame resistant workwear instantaneously. Worse yet, non-flame resistant workwear continue to burn even after the source of ignition has subsided. In fact, the majority of severe and fatal burn injuries are due to the ignition of non-flame resistant work clothes – not by the actual exposure to the heat source itself.

Using flame resistant clothing can provide the necessary thermal protection to shield workers at the moment of exposure. Once the source of ignition is removed, flame resistant garments will self extinguish, greatly limiting the severity of a burn. In many cases, they can mean the difference between a minor accident and a tragic fatality.

With the growing need for standard FR Workwear on many worksites there are many reasons to check the quality and safety of the materials and fabrics used to construct many existing Workwear products. The following tests analyse fabrics through standard tests used to certify and categorise the safety ability of FR Materials.

Preview the test video showcasing Tecsafe Plus vs Poly Cotton Workwear. click here

What is the Definition of FR – Flame Retardant and Flame Resistant

Is the ability of a fabric or material to not combust when exposed to flame and also to self extinguish once an ignition source (flame) is removed

 

What are the Types of Fibres used in FR (Fabrics)

Inherent = flame resistance is an essential characteristic of the fibres from which a fabric is made.  This characteristic cannot be washed or worn out. e.g. Nomex and Tecasafe Plus 

Chemically Treated = a chemical treatment is applied to the raw material that changes the original level of FR, will reduce over time due to chemical being washed out of fabric e.g. Proban (Banwear and Ultra-Soft)

 

How is FR tested and measured

Exposure Energy- Is expressed in calories/cm2, 1 cal/cm2 is equivalent to the exposure of the tip of a finger to a lit match in one second

An exposure energy of 1-2 cal/cm2 will cause a 2nd degree burn on human skin

Arc Rating - Is the measurement of the maximum exposure energy resistance demonstrated by a material (or a layered system of materials) prior to break open, or at the onset of a 2nd degree skin burn, Typical non FR work wear can ignite at ratings as low as 2 cal

Arc Thermal Performance Value - ATPV is the exposure energy on a material that results in a sufficient heat transfer through the material for a 50% probability of the onset of a 2nd degree burn. An ATPV rating is assigned to FR clothing to indicate the level of protection provided.

The higher the rating (cal/cm2) the greater the protection

Hazard Risk Category - HRC is a rating range directly related to ATPV. There are 5 HRC’s ranging from 0 to 4, with a hazard risk of 0 presenting the least risk and a hazard risk of 4 being the greatest level of risk.

 

Inherent FR Materials provide FR protection that will never wash out or wear out

TenCate Tecasafe® plus is engineered to provide unbeatable electric arc and flash fire protection that lasts longer than FR treated cotton fabrics. Tecasafe® plus is soft and lightweight fabric providing unmatched comfort. It is also comforting to know that Tecasafe® plus’s inherent protection will never wash or wear out.

  • Inherently flame resistant FR properties are built in, and won’t wash or wear out.
  • Exceeds NFPA 70E HRC 2 and NFPA 2112 performance standards.
  • Comfortable to wear Soft, flexible and breathable. Specially engineered to provide excellent moisture management properties that keep the wearer cooler by naturally wicking moisture away from the skin.
  • Exceptional durability Outstanding abrasion resistance and better strength retention after multiple commercial washes.
  • Excellent value Long life cycle and competitive price means lower cost of ownership.
  • High Visibility AS/NZS1906.4, ANSI 107 and CSA Z96 compliant.
  • Earth Friendly Made with Lenzing Tencel® environmentally friendly cellulose fibre.

 

Chemically Treated FR Materials provide FR Protection through chemical treatment of raw fabric

Walls FR® materials incorporate patented flame resistant technology developed specifically to leverage

the durability and endothermic properties of nylon for long wear life and improved flame protection.

Walls FR® has changed the way people think about protective clothing, delivering comfort, protection and wear life never before thought possible in a single fabric. In fact, Walls FR® fabrics deliver the best protection combined with the lowest cost per wearing in the industry. Walls FR® now has added softness that delivers the full potential of cotton comfort.

PROBAN® is a chemically treated Cotton fabric designed to protect the wearer from a range of workplace hazards such as arc flash, flash fire, molten ferrous metal splash, exposure to welding and wildland firefighting.

The PROBAN® process ensures the fabrics are guaranteed for flame resistance for the life of the garment, provided recommended wet laundering or dry cleaning procedures are followed.

ALu- SAFE® is a unique high performance workwear fabric developed specifically and especially to protect workers in Primary Aluminium Smelters who are exposed to the hazards and dangers of molten aluminium and cryolite (reduction cell flux) splash. ALu-SAFE® also offers protection from hazards such as radiant and convective heat and electric arc.

Elliotts Quality Safety Gear includes FR Workwear using materials designed for each condition and industry. This includes Tecasafe plus and Walls FR workwear along with Nomex, PBI, Proban and Tecasafe Gemini Firefighting apparel. Learn more about FR Testing, Material Data and the Elliotts FR Range and many other safety products available at elliottaustralia.com.

Posted in Elliotts Update, Flame Resistant (FR) Workwear, FR Protective Workwear, Industry Update, New Products | Leave a comment

Tecasafe Plus – FR ArcRated Workwear Range

Posted on May 7, 2013 by admin

Tecasafe Plus – FR ArcRated Workwear Range

Tecasafe Plus - FR ArcRated Workwear Range

In a matter of seconds, a momentary electric arc, flash fire or molten metal splash exposure can surround a worker with searing temperatures that will ignite everyday non-flame resistant workwear instantaneously. Worse yet, non-flame resistant workwear continue to burn even after the source of ignition has subsided. In fact, the majority of severe and fatal burn injuries are due to the ignition of non-flame resistant work clothes – not by the actual exposure to the heat source itself.

Using flame resistant clothing can provide the necessary thermal protection to shield workers at the moment of exposure. Once the source of ignition is removed, flame resistant garments will self extinguish, greatly limiting the severity of a burn. In many cases, they can mean the difference between a minor accident and a tragic fatality.

TenCate Tecasafe® plus delivers superior electric arc and flash fire protection in a comfortable lightweight fabric. It performs to the NFPA 70E and NFPA 2112 standards and lasts longer than FR treated fabrics, making Tecasafe Plus a great value. Unlike other protective fabrics, it is inherently flame resistant. So, the unique FR protection comes built-in, and won’t wash out or wear out.

Unbeatable Electric Arc Protection

TenCate Tecasafe® plus is an NFPA 70E compliant, comfortable, light-weight fabric with inherent heat and flame retardant properties, that provides durable and affordable electric arc protection to electricians, electrical contractors, and other professionals with potential exposure to electric arc flash.

Unbeatable Flash Fire Protection

TenCate Tecasafe® plus provides durable and affordable flash fire protection for workers in the petroleum, petrochemical, fire service, mining and other industries that may be exposed to flash fire.

Unbeatable Bushfire/ Wildland Fire Protection

TenCate Tecasafe® plus is the latest fabric innovation for protection against the hazards of wildland firefighting. It combines inherent FR protection with unbeatable comfort and exceptional durability into a single garment. Specially engineered, this is a light-weight fabric that still meets the rigorous standards of AS/NZS 4824.

 

TenCate Tecasafe® plus is engineered to provide unbeatable electric arc and flash fire protection that lasts longer than FR treated cotton fabrics. Tecasafe® plus is soft and lightweight fabric providing unmatched comfort. It is also comforting to know that Tecasafe® plus’s inherent protection will never wash or wear out.

Inherently flame resistant
FR properties are built in, and won’t wash or wear out. Performance exceeds NFPA 70E HRC 2 and NFPA 2112 standards.

Comfortable to wear
Soft, flexible and breathable. Specially engineered to provide excellent moisture management properties that keep the wearer cooler by naturally wicking moisture away from the skin.

Exceptional durability
Outstanding abrasion resistance and better strength retention after multiple commercial washes.

Excellent value
Long life cycle and competitive price means lower cost of ownership.

High Visibility
AS/NZS1906.4, ANSI 107 and CSA Z96 compliant.

Earth Friendly
Made with Lenzing Tencel® environmentally friendly cellulose fibre.

 

Elliotts TecaSafe plus Workwear Range

The Elliotts range of TecaSafe plus work wear has been designed specifically to provide electrical arc flash protection.

Anthony Elliott, Managing Director “When designing clothing to provide protection from electrical arc flash at Elliotts we take care to ensure our construction techniques and components compliment a premium fabric like TecaSafe plus. We only use aramid sewing threads such as Nomex and we only use flame resistant 3M 8935 reflective tape on our stock range of garments. We also include design features such as gusseted sleeves to ensure there is no gap at the cuff area and underarm gussets to allow maximum movement when the shirt is tucked in.” 

The Elliotts TecaSafe plus range includes long sleeve shirts, trousers, coverall, jackets and vests in various colour and reflective trim combinations.

 

CUSTOMISED Tecsafe plus FR WORKWEAR

As part of the Elliotts FR Workwear range we are able to offer customised workwear systems to suit your specific requirements.

Custom Design Features available for the Tecsafe plus range include reflective trim, High collars and custom pockets, Vented back and arm gussets, Custom logos and embroidery and is available in fabric weights including 5.8oz / 195gsm  HRC 1 – ATPV 6.5, 7.0oz / 235gsm  HRC 2 – ATPV 9.0 and 8.5oz / 288gsm  HRC 2 – ATPV 10.2.

For more information visit www.elliottaustralia.com.

 

Elliotts is an Australian based designer, manufacturer and distributor of world-class quality safety gear servicing the Australasian market.  Elliotts take care to only supply quality protective clothing and equipment that protect people from harm on a daily basis. Products include Specialist Safety Apparel, Welding & Workshop Protection, Gloves & Hand Protection, Safety Workwear & PPE for workers across industries including ELECTRICAL, MINING, OIL & GAS, WELDING & METAL FABRICATION, ALUMINIUM SMELTING, FIRE FIGHTING, CHEMICAL MANUFACTURING & CONSTRUCTION.

Posted in Elliotts Update, Flame Resistant (FR) Workwear, FR Protective Workwear | Leave a comment

Tecsafe Plus – Advanced FR Materials

Posted on May 1, 2013 by admin

Tecasafe Plus- Advanced FR Materials

Tecasafe Plus- Advanced FR Materials

Every day, workers around the world are risking their lives as they are exposed to the risk of flash fire, electrical arc flash and molten metal splash. In the split second when such a dangerous situation does occur, providing the right FR clothing can make the difference between avoiding a disaster involving serious injury or death.

 

FR clothing and other PPE should be provided as a last line of defense in the event there is an accident and to ensure workers are protected from harm which can result in severe injury or even death.

TenCate Tecasafe® plus is engineered to provide unbeatable electric arc and flash fire protection for electrical, petroleum and gas workers, utility lineman, foundry men, welders, oil refinery workers, and other professionals working in the most hazardous of workplace environments. The Tecasafe plus materials lasts twice as long as FR treated cotton fabrics. Yet our soft and lightweight fabric provides unmatched comfort. It is also comforting to know that our fabric’s inherent protection will never wash or wear out.

Constructed from a tri-blend of 48% modacrylic, 37% lyocell and 15% aramid, Tecasafe plus is a soft, lightweight fabric that is extremely comfortable to wear whilst providing the end user with superior inherent FR protection that exceeds the NFPA 70E and NFPA 2112 FR performance standards.

Tecasafe plus fabric construction

Modacrylic Fibres:

  • Provides FR protection and durability to the Tencel fibres
  • Very easy to colour dye

Tencel Fibres:

  • The cellulose content provides superior comfort and soft handle
  • Superior moisture management as a result of Tencel being able to absorb 3x its own weight in water

Para-aramid Fibres:

  • Provides enhanced durability and thermal stability
  • Extremely low shrinkage and loss of strength when exposed to thermal exposure

 

The Elliotts FR Safety Workwear range is constructed using Tecasafe plus is carefully crafted to create the highest possible FR protection for worksite personnel. The Tecasafe range is sewn with Nomex FR threads, all seams are over locked and then top stitched, all stress points are bar tacked, no metal components, ergonomic design and fit for greater freedom of movement and AS4836:2011 compliant 3M 8935 FR reflective tape.

 

Tecasafe plus Fabric Benefits

  • Inherently flame resistant
  • Electrical arc flash & flash fire protection
  • Extremely comfortable to wear, soft and breathable
  • Excellent moisture management
  • Exceptional abrasion resistance and strength retention
  • Easy care washing and maintains like new appearance aftermultiple industrial washes
  • Available in a range of colours including hi vis yellow

Certification

  • Tecasafe plus is UL Certified to NFPA 2112 (Flash Fire Certified)
  • Meets  Standards for FR Fabrics  NFPA70E & ASTM F15
  • Manufactured to meet requirements of the Australian Standard
  • AS4602.1:2011 High Visibility Safety Garments

 

Elliotts is an Australian based manufacturer and distributor of world-class quality safety gear servicing the Australasian market.  Elliotts take care to only supply quality protective clothing and equipment that protect people from harm on a daily basis. Products include protective clothing for fire fighters, hazmat, chemical splash, the metals industry, wet and cold weather and ArcFlash.  Products also include personal protective equipment from Pyramex and PureSport Hydration products. For more information visit www.elliottaustralia.com.

 

Posted in Elliotts Update, Flame Resistant (FR) Workwear, FR Protective Workwear | Leave a comment

ArcSafe Protective Materials

Posted on April 30, 2013 by admin

ArcSafe Protective Materials

ArcSafe Protective Materials

Wearing the right protective fabric can make the difference!

Arc Flash Switching Protection for Utilities and Electrical Maintenance and Electrical Contractors

For electrical maintenance workers and contractors, working hands-on with hazardous and potentially dangerous energy sources, conductors, circuit parts and other energized parts is a common component of their everyday routine. While there is no substitute for maintaining safe working conditions, accidents – especially electric arcs – can happen in an instant, no matter how experienced a worker may be.

The Elliotts safety design team recommends that FR clothing should be standard for any employee working on or near energized electrical systems. This will ensure that workers clothing offers protection from an arc flash exposure rather than producing an additional hazard. The clothing must offer maximum protection while ensuring the worker is comfortable.

There are two main categories of Elliotts Arc Flash Clothing range:

Primary Protective Clothing: Electrical Switching Clothing including switching coats, switching hoods and switching leggings.

Secondary Protective Clothing: Everyday Work Clothing including shirts , trousers and coveralls.

Preview the latest test videos for the Elliotts ArcSafe Systems online. click here

The need for arc flash protection

The intense energy and very short duration of an electric arc flash, reaching temperatures of 19,400C, can both burn the skin directly and cause ignition of clothing made from regular cotton and poly/cotton fabrics. NFPA 70E, the US Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, states in section 130.7 Personal and Other Protective Equipment (5) Body Protection that employees shall wear flame resistant (FR) clothing wherever there is a possible exposure to an electric arc flash above the threshold incident energy level for a second degree burn, (1.2 cal/cm2).

Arc Exposure Energy Basics

  • Exposure energy is expressed in cal/cm2
  • 1 cal/cm2 equals the exposure on the tip of a finger by a cigarette lighter in one second
  • An exposure energy of only one or two cal/cm2 will cause a 2nd degree burns on human skin
  • Arc flash event can generate up to 40 cal/cm2
  • Up to and exceed 19,400C, hotter than the surface of the sun

 

Why Flame Resistant (FR) Clothing

People working in any industry wherever there is a possibility of arc flash should wear FR clothing. Essentially, FR clothing saves lives. Importantly, FR clothing does not ignite and continue to burn. Even single-layer FR work clothing can significantly protect employees. While most people realize that electrical shock is life-threatening, many do not understand that wearing clothing made from regular cotton or poly/cotton that is not FR can result in severe harm or death if it is ignited under an electrical arc flash.

These non FR fabrics can be readily ignited at some exposure level and will continue to burn adding to the extent of injury sustained from the arc alone. Most serious burns from industrial accidents are caused by regular work clothing igniting and burning off the wearer’s back. Thousands of clothing-related injuries due to fire occur each year. The most severe burns are often not caused by the original hazard. They are the result of the wearer’s clothing igniting.

The Solution

TenCate Tecasafe® plus delivers superior electric arc and flash fire protection in a comfortable lightweight fabric. It performs to the NFPA 70E and NFPA 2112 standards and lasts longer than FR treated fabrics, making Tecasafe Plus a great value.

Unlike other protective fabrics, it is inherently flame resistant. So, the unique FR protection comes built-in, and won’t wash out or wear out.

TenCate high performance fabrics provide protection, comfort, durability and excellent value.

 

Walls FR® has changed the way people think about protective clothing, delivering comfort, protection and wear life never before thought possible in a single fabric. Walls FR® fabrics deliver the best protection combined with the lowest cost per wearing in the industry.

Walls FR® materials incorporate patented flame retardant technology developed specifically to leverage the durability and endothermic properties of nylon for long wear life and improved flame protection. This blend of 88% cotton with 12% high tenacity nylon eliminates the need to wear undergarments to achieve industry standards for flame and electric arc protection.

The Elliotts Arc Flash Switching range allows you to choose a protection level from 9.0cal coverall kit through to 89cal coat and jackets kits in a choice of Walls FR and Tecasafe plus combinations to suit your requirements.

Elliotts is an Australian based designer, manufacturer and distributor of world-class quality safety gear servicing the Australasian market.  Elliotts take care to only supply quality protective clothing and equipment that protect people from harm on a daily basis. Products include Specialist Safety Apparel, Welding & Workshop Protection, Gloves & Hand Protection, Safety Workwear & PPE for workers across industries including ELECTRICAL, MINING, OIL & GAS, WELDING & METAL FABRICATION, ALUMINIUM SMELTING, FIRE FIGHTING, CHEMICAL MANUFACTURING & CONSTRUCTION. For more information visit www.elliottaustralia.com.

 

Posted in Arc Flash and Switching, Elliotts Update, Flame Resistant (FR) Workwear, FR Protective Workwear, Specialist Protective Clothing | Leave a comment

Reducing the stress for firefighters

Posted on April 15, 2013 by admin

Firefighting_Group

 

 

 

 

 

 

During the stress of a fire operation are two primary supports that firefighters rely on: The first is having a strong team to back them up, and second is having the best equipment and safety clothing to support their own body systems and the stress faced in fire operations.

Any fire situation Structural or Wildland can put the firefighters body through many opposing factors including extreme heat, direct contact with flame, smoke inhalation, gas vapour environments, moisture from both internal and external sources, heat stress from physical exertion, touch point damage from environmental surfaces and localised weather conditions.

A firefighter wears a full fire suit, helmet a heavy BA, has to carry heavy equipment, and go into many fire situations with weight and restrictions that can cause stress. Anthony Elliott stated “Many of the changes we have made to our firefighting systems have been based on reducing the stress to the body while increasing the protection during a fire.

When firefighters are using their personal protective equipment PPE during a fire situation, the gear should be responsive and comfortable. By improving the PPE that they wear we can make the body more comfortable in these extreme environments and allow the firefighters to perform their jobs with greater ability and under less stress from wearing poorly designed equipment.

“We looked at other parts of our safety range where the clothing is trying to protect the wearer yet not be restrictive, and we were able to take some ideas from them on styling to reduce stress on the firefighter, and give the wearer a better experience”

Our target was to minimise the friction on stress points in a firefighting situation, this started with the re-enforcing of contact areas with Arashield including padded shoulder harness braces to distribute weight evenly over the shoulders to compliment

SCBA equipment, shaped elbow reinforcing, reinforced abrasion resistant sleeve cuffs with water resistant FR neoprene sleeve wells and Nomex knit wristers with thumb loops, angled bellows pockets with Velcro closure, pocket flaps with AraShield pull tab for easy opening when wearing gloves.

The second step was to make the firefighting system easier and more confortable wear. This included the changing of the design to incorporate ergonomic aspects to improve the wear ability during a fire situation. The trousers were adjusted to include a contoured knee design to allow unrestricted movement along with a gusseted crutch for extra mobility. The jacket was shortened with an extended tail, under arm gussets allow free movement with minimal coat rise and a two piece shaped sleeve allows natural movement of the elbow.

The resulting design in the X-Series and E-Series Reinforced systems gives a higher level of protection to the wearer while at the same time providing better mobility and put less stress on the body of the wearer during any fire situation.

Elliotts is an Australian based designer, manufacturer and distributor of world-class quality safety gear servicing the Australasian market.  Elliotts take care to only supply quality protective clothing and equipment that protect people from harm on a daily basis. Products include Specialist Safety Apparel, Welding & Workshop Protection, Gloves & Hand Protection, Safety Workwear & PPE for workers across industries including ELECTRICAL, MINING, OIL & GAS, WELDING & METAL FABRICATION, ALUMINIUM SMELTING, FIRE FIGHTING, CHEMICAL MANUFACTURING & CONSTRUCTION. For more information visit www.elliottaustralia.com.

Posted in Elliotts Update, Firefighting, Specialist Protective Clothing | Leave a comment

E-Series Structural Firefighting

Posted on April 2, 2013 by admin

E-SeriesAt Elliotts, we know that firefighters today face a broad range of extreme hazards including: high heat and flame, molten materials, hot surfaces, harsh physical environments  and possible exposure to chemicals and bloodborne pathogens. Elliotts range of protective clothing for firefighters offers protection against the physiological stress created through  exposure to these kinds of environments. A unique feature of the Elliott range is that it strikes the balance between offering  protection  while limiting  stress on the wearer.                         

Elliotts Structural Firefighting Systems and protective apparel are designed to be comfortable, breathable, lightweight, highly visible, allow the wearer to move freely and offer the highest possible overall protection in the hazardous fire fighting environment.

Elliotts range of Protective Clothing for Structural Firefighters incorporates the latest in fabric technologies from TenCate, PBI and DuPont Nomex. The Australian based design, construction and structural system features have been created to protect the wearer from the extreme conditions faced by structural firefighters.

Our full range of Structural Firefighters Protective Clothing is certified to AS/NZS 4967:2009 Requirements and test methods for protective clothing used for Structural Firefighting.

E-Series Jacket Features

  • “Y” style coat design to provide ease of mobility and mimimum coat rise
  • Articulated sleeves for greater movement
  • Coat hanging loop for drying
  • Contoured collar designed for maximum thermal protection
  • Thermal throat tab with Velcro closure
  • Two large gusseted pockets with Velcro flaps and drain holes
  • Heavy duty zipper with 50mm Velcro closure system on outside storm flap for extra heat and moisture protection
  • Sleeves feature knitted Nomex wristers for added protection
  • Reflective Trim – 50mm Yellow/ Silver Firetrim
  • Optional padded and reinforced shoulders and elbows

 

E-Series Trouser Features

  • Adjustable Velcro side tabs
  • 50mm heavy duty braces
  • Large thigh pockets with Velcro flaps and drain holes
  • Reflective Trim – 50mm Yellow/ Silver Firetrim
  • Articulated knees for greater movement
  • Multilayered knee for extra protection
  • Optional reinforced knee area

Elliotts is an Australian based designer, manufacturer and distributor of world-class quality safety gear servicing the Australasian market.  Elliotts take care to only supply quality protective clothing and equipment that protect people from harm on a daily basis. Products include Specialist Safety Apparel, Welding & Workshop Protection, Gloves & Hand Protection, Safety Workwear & PPE for workers across industries including ELECTRICAL, MINING, OIL & GAS, WELDING & METAL FABRICATION, ALUMINIUM SMELTING, FIRE FIGHTING, CHEMICAL MANUFACTURING & CONSTRUCTION. For more information visit www.elliottaustralia.com.

Posted in Elliotts Update, Firefighting, Specialist Protective Clothing | Leave a comment

ArcSafe Wet Weather Protection

Posted on March 29, 2013 by admin

ArcSafe_Wet

When your job requires you to wear hazard specific clothing to protect you from various risk levels, including FR Clothing or Switching Gear, you also require hazard specific Fire Retardant ArcSafe Wet Weather Gear to complete your protective garment system.

Workers in the electrical industry are often exposed to hazardous and potentially dangerous workplace conditions while working outdoors in the rain.  The Zetel ® ArcSafe wet weather apparel was specifically developed by Elliotts to provide Australia’s leading solution for the protection of workers against electric arc flash in wet weather conditions.

The performance of the Zetel® ArcSafe fabric has also been improved. Modifications to the components and construction has improved the ATPV rating from 8.9 to 11.0 Cal.

Zetel® ArcSafe wet weather Jackets and Trousers have recently been tested by Kinetrics Laboratory in the US to ensure they meets the highest possible standards required by Electrical workers. The ArcSafe Jacket and Trouser showed no failures in the test results and provided solid feedback on the garments that they are the best Arc Flash wet weather gear available in Australian Market.

See the test video online (click here)

ArcSafe Wet Weather gear is available in two levels, the first being ArcSafe Wet Weather that provides a HRC 2 level protection in a full waterproof wet weather jacket and trouser. The second being ArcSafe GR FRAS (Flame Retardant Antistatic) which is the same ArcSafe material with an interwoven carbon grid to provide antistatic properties to the ArcSafe Garment.

 

ZETEL® ArcSafe Wet Weather Protection

ZETEL® ArcSafe Wet Weather Clothing offers increased hazard specific protective performance to address specific needs and hazards in the electrical utility industry for Australasian conditions. 
ZETEL® ArcSafe clothing is highly visible, waterproof, breathable, windproof, flame resistant and offers protection against electric arc hazards.

Elliotts ZETEL® ArcSafe is a three layer, flame retardant, durable, breathable, waterproof and windproof fabric. ZETEL® ArcSafe offers electric arc flash protection of HRC2 (ATPV 11). ZETEL® ArcSafe conforms to the requirements of EN1149-3:2004 – Protective clothing electrostatic properties-surface resistivity.

Elliotts ZETEL® ArcSafe GR is a three layer, flame retardant, anti-static, durable, breathable, waterproof and windproof fabric. ZETEL® ArcSafe GR offers electric arc flash protection of HRC2 (ATPV 8.9)

ZETEL® ArcSafe GR incorporates core conducting trilobial yarns which offer superior anti-static performance and durability. ZETEL® ArcSafe GR conforms to the requirements of EN1149-3:2004 - Protective clothing electrostatic properties-surface resistivity.

Preview the Arc Flash test video online and see for yourself the results. Test data is also available for this garment by contacting the Elliotts Team on 07 32652944.

The Elliotts Specialist ArcSafe Wet Weather gear offers options for all industries and protection levels required to keep safe in all wet weather situations.

Zetel® ArcSafe Jacket

  • Weight – 271gsm
  • Garment Rating – HRC 2    ATPV(cal/m2) = 11.0
  • Test Shot Rating – HRC 2    ATPV(cal/m2) = 11.0

Zetel® ArcSafe Trouser

  • Weight – 271gsm
  • Garment Rating – HRC 2    ATPV(cal/m2) = 11.0
  • Test Shot Rating – HRC 2    ATPV(cal/m2) = 11.0

Elliotts is an Australian based designer, manufacturer and distributor of world-class quality safety gear servicing the Australasian market.  Elliotts take care to only supply quality protective clothing and equipment that protect people from harm on a daily basis. Products include Specialist Safety Apparel, Welding & Workshop Protection, Gloves & Hand Protection, Safety Workwear & PPE for workers across industries including ELECTRICAL, MINING, OIL & GAS, WELDING & METAL FABRICATION, ALUMINIUM SMELTING, FIRE FIGHTING, CHEMICAL MANUFACTURING & CONSTRUCTION. For more information visit www.elliottaustralia.com.

Posted in Elliotts Update, Flame Resistant (FR) Workwear, FR Protective Workwear, Specialist Protective Clothing, Wet Weather Protective Clothing | Leave a comment

Saving your skin from Chemical Splash

Posted on March 19, 2013 by admin

Saving you skin from Chemical Splash

Saving your skin

Growing industries across Australia including mining , oil and gas, petrochemical, metallurgy and heavy manufacturing has seen a huge increase in the use of caustic liquids and chemical solvents in the manufacturing and maintenance process of many business.  From chemical separations, Alkylation, Electripolishing. Anodising, Phosphating, Caustic cleaning through to fuel management all require the material handling of potentially dangerous chemicals that can cause life threating burns from chemical splash.

Each industrial sector uses many chemical agents in its manufacturing processes such as:

Coatings – paints, solvents, resins, polyurethanes, oils.

Surfactants – hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, sulphuric acid, acetic acid.

Bases – sodium and potassium hydroxides, lime ; solvents ; colorants and wastes.

Mechanical liquids – Engine coolants, heat transfer fluids, oil soluble colorants, hydraulic fluids, fuel additives.

Machinery Fuels – Jet A-1, Diesel, Naphtha, Engine oils, all of which a major chemical splash risk.

 

What are the chemical splash danger areas?

 

Petrochemical

Operations : Handling chemicals or adding chemical agents.

Inspection : Handling mistakes when testing or analysing the products and sampling.

Stock Management : Unloading, storing, and transfer of chemicals from a container or a tank to another one.

Maintenance : Operations of draining, cleaning, sanitation, and purging.

 

Mining, Oil and Gas

Solvent extraction: Separation of one or more substances from a mixture by treating an aqueous solution of the mixture

with a solvent that will extract the required substances, leaving the other undesirable materials behind.

Leaching: Extracting a soluble metallic compound from an ore by selectively dissolving it in a suitable solvent, such a

water, sulfuric acid, or sodium cyanide solution.

Refining: Electrolytic or chemical process that produces a pure metal.

Flotation: Chemicals are added to a crushed ore-water slurry to recover the mineral.

 

Heavy Manufacturing

Plant Operations: Use of chemicals such as adhesives, acids, bases and cleaning chemicals

Manufacturing: electrochemical and chemical milling, Corrosion inhibition liquids, Heat transfer fluids and coolants, Oil soluble colorants, Hydraulic fluids, Fuel additives – efficient and ecological

Maintenance: Solvents used for different tasks of preparation of surfaces, such as cleaning, degreasing and pickling

 

Metallurgy

Electropolishing : commonly used electrochemical method for smoothing, polishing, deburring and cleaning various metals.

Aqueous cleaning : the workpieces are placed in this process solution for several minutes.

Pickling : pickling is a chemical procedure used to brighten and/or remove oxides from the metallic surface prior to other surface treatment processes with an acid-based pickling agent.

Anodising : the anodising of metals is an electrolytic surface oxidation process which enhances the natural aptitude for the metal to oxidise.

Phosphating : The treatment of a surface with a diluted solution of hot phosphoric acid allows its passivation

What is the best way to protect your team?

To protect operational teams responsible for handling chemicals onsite there has been an increase in development of chemical splash and Hazmat apparel designed to withstand splash and gaseous dangers face during the handling of chemical materials.

The latest generation of Chemical Splash Suit fabrics are constructed with a breathable hydrophilic polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE laminate made from a high performance, high quality 5 layer breathable fabric manufactured specifically for the requirements for chemical splash protection. These fabrics allow heat vapour to transfer through the fabric while preventing liquid penetration by a variety of chemicals. As these materials allow the body to ‘breathe’, so your perspiration can evaporate reducing the possibility of heat stress and therefore improving wearer comfort.

The multiple layers in these new fabrics include a Chemical, Oil, Soil Repellant treatment on the Outer Fabric, 300D Oxford Outer Fabric, Moisture Vapour Permeable PU Hydrophilic Coating, Moisture Vapour Permeable Microporous PTFE Film Membrane and Tricot Nylon Knit Liner.

Chemical Splash suits made from Chemtech have been highly tested to ensure that they provide high protection against chemical splash including to the following standards AS4602.1999, EN471:2008, EN1149-1:1995, AS2755.1-1985, AS/NZS ISO 6530-2006, AS3765.1:1990 and GB12012-1989. Chemtech fabrics have also been tested against liquid chemicals including Hydrochloric Acid 37%, Sodium Hydroxide 40%, Jet Fuel A1 100%, Sulphuric Acid 98% Toluene, Tetrachloroethylene and Nitric Acid 50%.

Elliotts is an Australian based designer, manufacturer and distributor of world-class quality safety gear servicing the Australasian market.  Elliotts take care to only supply quality protective clothing and equipment that protect people from harm on a daily basis. Products include Specialist Safety Apparel, Welding & Workshop Protection, Gloves & Hand Protection, Safety Workwear & PPE for workers across industries including ELECTRICAL, MINING, OIL & GAS, WELDING & METAL FABRICATION, ALUMINIUM SMELTING, FIRE FIGHTING, CHEMICAL MANUFACTURING & CONSTRUCTION. For more information visit www.elliottaustralia.com.

Posted in Chem-tech Chemical Splash, Elliotts Update, Specialist Protective Clothing | Leave a comment

Tecasafe plus flame test

Posted on February 18, 2013 by admin

Tecasafe plus flame test

Tecasafe plus vs poly cotton

See the latest video showcasing the FR protection offered by Tecasafe Plus FR Workwear.

In this video Tecasafe plus and standard poly cotton workwear gets the full burn exposure in this test to highlight the importance of good FR workwear to keep your team safe.

 

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AOG 2013 – Elliotts Stand U19

Posted on February 13, 2013 by admin

AOG 2013

The Australiasian Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference, known as AOG, will be held on the 20-22 February, 2013. If you are a member of the Oil and Gas Industry in Australia, AOG truly is a ‘must attend’ exhibition and conference.

Team will be available to show you the latest in safey gear including, Tecasafe plus FR Workwear, Chemtech, ArcSafe Electrical Switching Gear, Firefighting Apparel, Welding Safety Gear and Safety Gloves for the Oil anbd Gas Industry.

Visit the team on STAND U19.

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