Gear

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FR gear is workwear and headwear made to resist ignition and stop burning once the flame source is removed. It is worn by welders, electricians, oil and gas crews, and utility workers. FR headwear protects the head and neck, which are often exposed in flash fire and arc flash events.

No. FR gear is not fireproof. It resists catching fire, self-extinguishes, and does not melt onto the skin, but it can still be damaged by long or intense flame exposure. It reduces burn injury risk. It does not make a worker immune to fire.

Forge FR offers flame resistant beanies, balaclavas, neck gaiters, a hood cap, and a six panel cap for men. Prices currently range from $21.25 to $47.25. These pieces are built for cold job sites and hazardous work environments.

No. Regular cotton-poly, acrylic, or synthetic headwear can ignite or melt in a flash fire, even when your shirt and pants are FR. Any layer that touches your skin or sits near your face should be FR-rated. That is why FR beanies, balaclavas, and gaiters matter as part of a full FR kit.

Yes, most FR beanies and balaclavas are thin enough to fit under a hard hat. Check that the hat still sits securely and the suspension adjusts properly. Also confirm that the headwear does not block any other PPE, such as a welding helmet or face shield.

NFPA 2112 covers flash fire protection. NFPA 70E covers electrical safety and arc flash. An arc rating, shown in cal/cm² with a CAT level from 1 to 4, tells you how much arc flash energy the fabric can handle. A garment can meet one standard and not the other, so match the rating to your job hazard.

Follow the care label on each product. In general, wash FR gear in warm water with regular detergent and avoid bleach and fabric softener, which can reduce the protection of some FR fabrics. Replace any piece that is torn, thin, or contaminated with oil or fuel.

Yes. Forge FR has a wholesale sign-up page and a bulk enquiry line at +1 (216) 926-2925. Businesses can also email sales@forgefr.net for team and bulk orders.