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FR (flame-resistant) clothing is designed to self-extinguish once the flame source is removed. Its main benefit is that it does not melt, drip or keep burning, which can reduce a severe burn to a minor one. It is worn in oil and gas, utilities, welding and manufacturing.

NFPA 2112 covers clothing for industrial flash fire hazards, while NFPA 70E covers protection against the thermal hazards of an electric arc. Oil, gas and petrochemical workers usually need 2112. Electricians and utility workers need 70E. Some garments meet both.

ATPV (Arc Thermal Performance Value) measures a garment's arc protection in cal/cm². HRC 1 is 4 cal/cm², HRC 2 is 8, HRC 3 is 25 and HRC 4 is 40. Choose a garment rating that meets or exceeds your workplace hazard assessment.

No. A garment labeled FR is not automatically arc-rated. Arc-rated clothing is FR, but it has also been tested to ASTM F1959 and given a specific cal/cm² rating. Check each Forge FR product page for its ATPV/HRC value and NFPA compliance before ordering.

It depends on the fabric. In inherently FR fabrics the protection is built into the fiber, so it does not wash out, while treated fabrics depend on following care instructions. General rules are: use liquid detergent, no bleach or peroxide, no fabric softener or starch, and tumble dry low.

FR clothing protects against flash fires, not molten metal or heavy sparks. Sparks and slag can still burn through standard FR shirts, so welders should pick garments made for welding. Forge FR also lists welding shirts. Check the product description for its intended use before buying.