Company offers Category 1 and 2 clothing to protect against arc flashes and flash fires
J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc., known for its SAFEGEAR Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), has partnered with DRIFIRE, a leading brand in flame-resistant (FR) apparel, to expand its range of protective clothing. This collaboration aims to provide workers with reliable protection against dangerous arc flashes and flash fires, which contribute to an estimated average of 30,000 incidents annually.
J. J. Keller® SAFEGEAR® PPE now offers an extensive selection of Category 1 and 2 FR clothing, including base layer short- and long-sleeve T-shirts, high-visibility vests and sweatshirts, coveralls, jeans, a work shirt, and a balaclava. These garments are not only flame-resistant but also arc-rated, complying with OSHA standards 1910.269 and 1910.252, which mandate protective clothing for workers in the electric industry and welders.
Ray Qureshi-Chishti, EHS editor and subject-matter expert at J. J. Keller, emphasized the importance of utilizing FR clothing in hazardous environments, saying, "serious injuries and illnesses may result from contact with arc flashes, blasts, or flash fires if workers don't use FR clothing when required. If they're wearing regular clothing, it can melt onto their skin, causing severe burns."
The collaboration with DRIFIRE aligns with J. J. Keller's commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its customers. Joel Clark, forms and supplies portfolio director for J. J. Keller, expressed his excitement about expanding the SAFEGEAR line, highlighting DRIFIRE's esteemed reputation and their utilization of advanced and proprietary fabrics that enhance breathability and comfort.