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FILO Apparel, About Our Products

FILO Apparel manufactures products that adhere to rigorous flame-resistant standards, ensuring maximum comfort and safety. Our apparel meets NFPA 1975-2019 specifications, employing advanced fabric technology for superior performance. Flame-resistant (FR) clothing is indispensable for professionals facing hazardous environments, shielding against flash fires, electric arcs, and combustible dust. This specialized gear empowers individuals in various industries to undertake risky tasks with confidence. Over time, FR clothing has proven pivotal in preventing severe injuries and saving lives by resisting ignition and extinguishing flames upon removal of the ignition source.

What Is Flame-Resistant Clothing?

During fire or explosions, many fabrics can ignite and persist in burning, with some even melting onto the wearer's body, resulting in severe injuries. Textile fires often continue to burn longer and cause more damage than the initial incident itself.

Flame-resistant clothing is specifically engineered to reduce the likelihood of catching fire when exposed to high temperatures or combustion. If ignited, these garments cease burning once the heat source is removed, providing crucial escape time and minimizing injuries. It's important to note that while flame-resistant clothing is resistant to ignition, it is not fireproof; prolonged exposure to heat can still cause it to burn.

Moreover, flame-resistant apparel is designed to maintain its integrity under heat stress, preventing open areas in the fabric that could expose the wearer's skin to further hazards and potentially worsen injuries.

How Does Flame-Resistant Clothing Work?

Most flame-resistant (FR) clothing utilizes materials like Nomex, Kevlar, and Modacrylic, known for their robust heat resistance properties. These materials are chosen for their excellent flame-resistant qualities and are commonly incorporated into various components of FR garments. Additionally, fabrics such as cotton, which are naturally resistant to flames, can be further enhanced with specialized chemicals to increase their heat resistance and protective capabilities.

Both naturally flame-resistant materials and those treated with specialized chemicals exhibit similar behaviors: they do not sustain combustion once the ignition source is removed, are not easily ignited, and do not melt. This is critical as melted fabric can cause significant damage and long-lasting injuries.

Different flame-resistant materials offer distinct advantages depending on the setting. What protects individuals in one environment may not be suitable for another, underscoring the importance for professionals and employers to carefully assess which products best suit their workplace needs.

The Limitations of Flame-Resistant Clothing

Flame-resistant (FR) clothing, while crucial for personal protection, is not fireproof. In extreme conditions, FR garments can catch fire, albeit briefly, and although they do not melt onto the wearer's body, they can still cause serious injuries. It's important to understand that many performance aspects of FR clothing cannot be tested by the wearer in real-world situations.

To maximize safety, selecting FR garments rated to the appropriate standards is essential. These standards are categorized by Hazard Risk Category (HRC), with ratings ranging from HRC1 (minimum arc rating of 4) to HRC4 (minimum arc rating of 40). Layering FR clothing provides added protection: if the outer layer is burned or damaged, underlying layers can mitigate heat and flames, preventing skin burns.

Professionals should avoid wearing flammable synthetic garments under FR clothing, as these can pose significant hazards. Synthetic materials can melt onto the skin even if the outer layer of FR clothing does not catch fire. Therefore, wearing appropriate clothing from head to toe is critical for safety.

It's important to note that while FR clothing offers protection against flash fires, electrical arcs, and similar incidents, it does not shield against explosive forces, projectiles, or other hazards that may be present in certain work environments. Professionals must ensure they wear the correct PPE for specific job tasks, some of which may also incorporate flame-resistant properties to enhance overall safety.

Investing in high-quality FR clothing and adhering to stringent rating and requirement checks are crucial steps in ensuring the safety of professionals working in hazardous industries. By doing so, individuals can effectively mitigate risks and protect themselves while performing their duties.

FILO Apparel Return Policy:

Refunds will be provided to the original method of payment within 30 days from receipt of item. Items must be returned in their original packaging and include all packaging attachments and tags.


Special order items or items that have been altered in any way will not be acceptable for return unless the return is related to our error. We will consider any items for return that are defective due to materials or craftsmanship.


Items damaged by accident, negligence, improper care, normal wear and tear, or natural breakdown of colors and materials over an extended period of time and use will not be accepted for return.

Mail returns to:
FILO Apparel
1739 Indian Woods Dr.
Neptune Beach, FL 32266

For further assistance, please contact our amazing Customer Service Team!

Phone: 904-762-5035
Hours: M-F 8 A.M - 5 P.M. EST
Email: customerservice@filoapparel.com

 

Limited Warranty:

FILO Apparel warrants its products to the original owner for a period of twelve months from the date noted on the original sales invoice. This warranty applies to all FILO branded products, except those specifically designated as not covered by warranty on the product's packaging, hangtag, or label, and excludes items purchased from unauthorized sellers or dealers.

All FILO branded products are guaranteed to be free from defects in materials and workmanship when used and maintained according to firefighting, rescue, or emergency best practices. FILO Apparel reserves the right to replace any garment deemed defective in material or workmanship at its discretion. Only original, unaltered, and unmodified items are covered under this warranty. Damage caused by accidents, negligence, improper care, normal wear and tear, or natural breakdown of materials and colors over time is not covered.

This limited warranty applies exclusively to products purchased by the original owner within the specified timeframe.

Guidelines for Contaminated Clothing

Firefighters face ongoing challenges with exposure to hazardous substances, as even routine structural fires increasingly involve synthetic materials and toxic liquids that pose chemical exposure risks.

The protective clothing and equipment worn by firefighters during these incidents inevitably become contaminated, raising concerns about how to effectively manage this contamination. Structural firefighting gear is designed to provide limited protection against chemical exposure, typically featuring outer shell materials treated with repellent finishes to shed liquids and reduce potential contamination. However, the effectiveness of this protection hinges on the use of a moisture barrier and garment design to prevent liquids from reaching the skin. Despite these measures, the clothing may still retain some liquids upon contact, and can potentially absorb unknown substances or gases over time.

Firefighters become particularly concerned about contamination when:

  • They knowingly encounter an unusual substance during response activities or discover exposure later on.
  • Continued use of protective clothing leads to skin rashes or unexplained health issues that could be linked to exposure during firefighting operations.

In situations where firefighters are splashed with specific substances during an emergency response, or when chemical releases are identified post-incident, it is reasonable to suspect contamination has occurred. Managing and addressing these contamination risks is crucial to safeguarding firefighter health and ensuring effective emergency response capabilities.

Clothing Decontamination 

Dealing with contaminated firefighter protective clothing is a complex and critical process, particularly when the presence of specific substances is suspected. Departments must carefully assess whether contaminated clothing can be effectively decontaminated, a decision complicated by the lack of industry-wide data on the efficacy of cleaning methods for different chemical contaminants.

Several factors influence this decision-making process:

  • Extent of Contamination: The severity and amount of contamination.
  • Type of Contaminant: Chemical and physical characteristics of the contaminant.
  • Decontamination Agents: Availability and suitability of agents or processes known to be effective for firefighter protective clothing.

Typically, organizations rely on internal resources like hazardous materials teams or seek external expertise to assist in these evaluations. Unfortunately, FILO Apparel cannot provide specific guidance due to the wide range of potential chemical and biological contaminants encountered. Regardless of the approach chosen, contaminated clothing must be isolated to prevent further exposure. This involves storing the clothing in specialized containers, such as lined or plastic drums, until decontamination can be carried out.

Certain chemicals are so hazardous that contaminated garments may need to be condemned. For instance, clothing heavily exposed to asbestos fibers is typically condemned due to the material's carcinogenic properties and difficulty in removal. In cases where residual contamination poses health risks, such as with allergens like peanut oil, condemnation may also be recommended if safe levels cannot be assured.

Testing may be necessary to determine if clothing remains contaminated or if decontamination was successful, particularly when dealing with complex mixtures or unknown substances. Testing methods can identify and quantify contaminants but require expertise and specialized equipment.

Ultimately, departments should establish protocols for assessing and managing contaminated clothing based on specific hazards encountered. Consulting with departmental experts is crucial to determine appropriate actions and ensure firefighter safety during and after hazardous material incidents.

Proper FR Clothing Care: Washing, Repairing & Replacing

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your FILO Apparel flame-resistant (FR) garments, follow these important guidelines:

  1. Storage: Store FR clothing at room temperature in a secure location. Ensure the storage area is protected from pests and moisture to maintain the FR qualities of the garments.

  2. Inspection: Before each use, thoroughly inspect FR garments for any defects or damage that could compromise safety. Pay particular attention if the garment will be exposed to sharp objects or equipment that could potentially cause damage.

  3. Signs of Damage: Be vigilant for the following signs of damage that may require removal of the garment from service:

    • Thin or torn fabric, especially around joints where wear and abrasion are common.
    • Non-functional elements such as zippers or buttons.
    • Significant alterations that deviate from the original design of the garment.
    • Garments that do not fit properly or are uncomfortable during wear.
    • Stains or spots that cannot be removed through cleaning.

If any of these signs are observed, consider removing the garment permanently or temporarily from service until repairs or replacements can be made. Maintaining the integrity of FR clothing is essential to ensure it continues to provide reliable protection against fire and other hazards encountered in firefighting and related activities.

    Washing

    The flame-resistant fibers used in FILO Apparel's FR clothing maintain their FR properties whether they are inherent (naturally flame-resistant) or treated. These properties endure through laundering and normal wear and tear on the job.

    Proper laundering of FR clothing is crucial and differs from regular clothing care:

    • Separate Washing: FR clothing should not be washed with regular clothing. Use a separate load.
    • Machine Washing: You can use a home laundry machine for washing FR clothing. However, if the clothing is heavily soiled with grime or tough buildup, it's advisable to use an industrial washing machine.
    • Chemical Exposure: Avoid exposing FR clothing to certain workplace chemicals, such as insect repellents containing DEET, which can compromise FR properties.
    • Laundering Products: When laundering FR clothing, avoid using anti-static or wrinkle-free dryer sheets, fabric softeners, starch, and chlorine bleach. These products can diminish the FR properties of the fabric.

    Following these guidelines helps maintain the effectiveness and durability of FILO Apparel's FR clothing, ensuring continued protection for wearers in hazardous environments.

    Repairing

    Some types of damage to FR clothing can be repaired, depending on the extent and nature of the damage. If you're unsure about the repair options for a garment, consider consulting repair kit suppliers who specialize in components like Nomex, Tecasafe, and other branded materials. They can provide valuable insights into whether a garment can be effectively repaired.

    However, there are situations where repair may not be feasible or safe:

    • Flash Fire or Thermal Exposure: If an FR garment has been involved in a flash fire or other thermal incident, its FR qualities may be compromised. In such cases, it is safest to dispose of the garment and replace it.
    • Beyond Repair: If a garment is severely damaged and deemed beyond repair, replacing it is the only viable option to maintain safety standards.
    • Arc Flash Exposure: Garments exposed to arc flash incidents may also have their FR properties compromised, necessitating replacement.

    It's important to recognize that all PPE, including FR clothing, has a finite lifespan and will eventually need replacement. Regularly assess the condition of FR clothing and replace it as necessary to ensure ongoing protection. FILO Apparel offers high-quality FR products designed to meet safety standards, making them a reliable choice for replacement garments.

    Garment Marking Guidelines

    Currently, OSHA does not prohibit the use of name tags or emblems on flame-resistant (FR) clothing, but there are important guidelines to follow for safety and compliance:

    1. Material Considerations: If name tags or emblems are made of non-flame resistant materials such as polyester or rayon, their overall area on the garment should be minimized. Avoid large company logos across the back of the garment or multiple logos covering a significant portion of the clothing.

    2. Certification Labels: Do not write on UL Certification labels or any NFPA Certification marks affixed to FR clothing. These labels are critical for verifying compliance with safety standards and should remain clear and legible.

    3. Consult Department Guidelines: It's crucial to consult your department or organization for specific guidelines regarding the location and size of any emblems or additions to FR clothing. They can provide instructions tailored to ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain the protective integrity of FR garments.

    Following these guidelines helps maintain the effectiveness of FR clothing in protecting wearers from fire hazards while ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations.