Tips for Buying the Best Fire Resistant Outerwear for Oil Rig Workers

Oil rigs are dangerous places to work in. Workers are surrounded by toxins, heavy equipment, and extreme weather. Out-of-control blazes are just a spark away in such facilities. 

Just a few weeks ago, a fire took place at an offshore Pemex Oil Platform in Mexico. The contractor died, whereas nine workers suffered injuries. Another deadly explosion occurred in an oil rig northeast of Williston. Three people were injured in it. 

With explosions being widespread in oil rigs, investing in fire-resistant outerwear has become a necessity to safeguard your workers against potential hazards. 

Picking the best fire-resistant outerwear might seem easy unless you get down to it. The overwhelming number of options, as well as the lack of knowledge of what to look for, makes the task difficult. However, we are here to help you out. In this article, we’ll share some tips to help you choose the best fire-resistant outerwear for your workers. 

#1 Familiarize Yourself With NFPA 2112 Requirements

First and foremost, understand the requirements for flame-resistant clothing for oil rig workers set by the NFPA 2112. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2112 has outlined specific requirements for flame-resistant clothing, including construction, materials, and performance criteria. 

The NFPA 2112 has specified basic requirements and test methods for garments to meet flame-resistant protection standards. These include the heat and thermal shrinkage resistance, ASTM F1930 Mankin test (predicted burning area of burn injury), and flame resistance. 

The heat and thermal shrinkage resistance, for instance, must be less than 10%. The fabric must be tested for it after it is received and then after three washes. 

Familiarizing yourself with NFPA 2112 requirements will help you choose outerwear that meets the necessary safety criteria and provides reliable protection in hazardous environments. 

MWG Apparel, specializing in flame-resistant workwear, is a brand that offers outerwear that is NFPA 2112 compliant. That means its fire-resistant clothing is third-party tested to ensure it complies with workplace safety standards. The brand offers full test results upon request. 

#2 Material Matters

When it comes to fire-resistant fabrics, not all are created equal. Some manufacturers sell outerwear that is naturally flame-resistant, whereas others treat them to meet flame-resistant test standards. 

Nomex and Kevlar are good options. Nomex, a meta-aramid fiber, is renowned for its durability and resistance to heat and flames. Kevlar, a para-aramid fiber, provides excellent strength and heat resistance. Thus, these two fabrics are ideal for fire-resistant clothing.

When drilling for oil or natural gas, explosions are possible. If you opt for outerwear made out of these materials, your workers will be protected from serious burns should an explosion take place. 

You can, however, also go for outerwear made of treated cotton if you’re looking for fabrics that strike a balance between protection and comfort. Treated cotton is actually regular cotton treated with chemicals that make it resistant to fire. 

Be it Nomex, Kevlar, or treated cotton, each of these materials offers superior protection against flames and heat. Hence, you can go for any of the three. 

#3 Assess Comfort and Fit

Comfort and fit, though they might not seem so, are important factors when it comes to choosing fire-resistant clothing. These factors have a direct impact on workers’ productivity. 

Your chosen fire-resistant outerwear must offer a balance between protection and comfort. That way, your workers will be able to perform their tasks effectively without feeling restricted or uncomfortable. 

Choose lightweight fire-resistant clothing. Kevlar is considered the lightest weight, for it weighs around 0.65–0.7 lbs per sq ft. Additionally, look for garments with adjustable features like cuffs, waistbands, and hoods. This will allow your workers to customize the fit for maximum comfort and protection. 

Fabrics with stretch properties enhance flexibility and range of motion, further improving comfort and mobility. Hence, consider going for them. Outerwear with all these features will minimize distractions, allow your rig workers to stay focused on their tasks, and ensure their safety in hazardous environments.

#4 Evaluate Durability

Oil rig workers are exposed to harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, rough surfaces, and chemicals. Moreover, they are faced with demanding tasks, such as working in confined spaces and handling heavy equipment, that put stress on their clothing. Prioritizing durability is, thus, important. Their fire-resistant outerwear must be durable enough to withstand the rigors of their jobs. 

Kevlar, Nomex, and PBI score high in durability. Treated cotton outerwear of some brands is also durable. In addition, look for garments with heavy-duty zippers, reinforced seams, and abrasion-resistant materials to ensure longevity and reliability. 

Outerwear with heavy-duty zippers is less prone to damage and failure. This ensures that the garment remains securely fastened in high-stress situations. Reinforced seams, on the other hand, prevent fraying and tearing, enhancing the overall durability of the garment. 

Meanwhile, abrasion-resistant materials, such as reinforced panels or ripstop fabrics, protect against wear and tear from rough surfaces and mechanical equipment commonly found on oil rigs. 

To wrap things up, choosing fire-resistant outerwear is more than just a matter of compliance. The safety of your oil rig workers depends on them. Thus, it’s essential to select nothing but the best. When picking fire-resistant outerwear, be sure to follow the tips discussed here. Rest assured that you will make an informed decision.