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Fire-resistant clothing for firefighters, including jackets and gloves, hanging from a rusty metal rack.

Jobs that require the use of fire-resistant clothing

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Feature Staff

Some jobs are a hot commodity, in that they require workers to be exposed to intense heat and flames. These jobs may include firefighters, welders, foundry workers, or those who work in the oil and gas industry. To protect themselves from potential burns and injuries, these workers wear fire-resistant clothing while on the job. Here are five jobs that require the use of fire-resistant clothing.

Electricians

Electricians handle high-voltage gear and live wires, which exposes them to potential electrical arcs and flashes. These flashes can cause severe burns if the worker isn't wearing FR clothing. There are a few different types of FR clothes for electrical workers, ranging from coveralls to jackets. This diversity is designed to provide them with full-body protection so that accidental sparks or flashes don’t result in serious injuries.

Firefighters

It goes without saying that firefighters need the best protection against flames and heat. Their job involves entering burning buildings, so they need clothing that can withstand extreme temperatures.

Fire-resistant gear, including coats, pants, and helmets, helps shield firefighters from burns while allowing them to move freely. Without this protective clothing, the risk of serious injury or death would be much higher for firefighters.

Welders

Welding involves high heat and sparks, making it a hazardous job if workers do not have the proper protective gear. Welders wear fire-resistant jackets, pants, and gloves to protect them from potential burns and injuries caused by flying molten metal. These clothing items are typically made from materials such as leather, wool, or treated cotton that can withstand high temperatures and protect the welder's skin.

Foundry workers

Foundries are industrial workplaces where workers melt and mold metals into various shapes. Melting metals generates intense heat and exposes workers to molten metal splashes, which can cause severe burns if there's nothing to protect their skin. That's why foundry workers wear fire-resistant clothing, such as aluminized aprons and jackets, to protect themselves from these hazards.

Oil and gas industry workers

The oil and gas industry involves working with flammable substances, making it a high-risk job for fires and explosions. Workers in this industry are required to wear fire-resistant clothing, including coveralls, hoods, gloves, and boots, to protect them from potential flash fires or chemical splashes. This protective gear helps keep workers safe while they work in hazardous conditions.

Fire is a bigger threat than most people realize, and those who work in high-risk jobs need to take extra precautions to stay safe. This means wearing the fire-resistant clothing required by their job. Without protective gear, workers in these industries face a higher risk of burns and injuries. By investing in quality FR clothing, they can safely continue their important work.