Flammability of coveralls for offshore use

http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/hsl_pdf/2007/hsl0725.pdf


Objectives
To assess the effect of adding a disposable coverall over the top of a flame retardant coverall with respect to flame spread, using the method outlined in ISO 15025:2002 (Protective clothing – Protection against heat and flame – Test method for limited flame spread), and more specifically, to determine the following:
- Does the use of a disposable FR coverall impair the effectiveness of a FR coverall worn underneath?
- Does the use of a disposable FR coverall provide effective protection from flame spread with a non-FR coverall beneath?
- Is the effectiveness of a FR coverall impaired when a disposable non-FR coverall is used over the top?
- Could a disposable FR coverall be used without any form of additional protection, thereby limiting the potential for heat stress?
Main Findings
Disposable FR coveralls do not appear to adversely affect the protection offered by a FR coverall when worn over the top.
Any other combination of FR and non-FR coveralls does not appear to offer adequate protection.
A disposable coverall on its own does not continue to burn, but it also does not offer any protection to the user.
Recommendations
Dual layers of coveralls (disposable worn over non-disposable) should not be worn in areas where flame retardant clothing is required unless BOTH coveralls are flame retardant.
Disposable FR coveralls should not be worn as the only means of protection.
The manufacturer’s instructions on how coveralls should be deployed should be followed at all times.