What OSHA standards apply to the embroidery of FR clothing?
Response: OSHA’s standard at Section 1910.269(l)(6)(iii) requires that employees, who are exposed to flames or electric arcs, wear clothing that doesn’t increase the extent of any injury sustained by the employee. That provision does not specify the construction methods or materials (including the embroidery) of the clothing, but it does list fabrics, including blends, that are prohibited (e.g., acetate, nylon, polyester, rayon) unless the employer can prove that the clothing made of these fabrics is worn in such a manner as to eliminate the hazard involved. We suggest that you also refer to the performance specifications for FR clothing in ASTM Standard 1506-02ae1, Standard Performance Specification for Flame Resistant Textile Materials for Wearing Apparel for Use by Electrical Workers Exposed to Momentary Electric Arc and Related Thermal Hazards.
