One common question we hear at REED Manufacturing is whether direct embroidery, emblems, name patches, logos, or similar features on flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) garments need to themselves be flame-resistant. The short answer is: No. However, there are specific guidelines regarding their placement, quantity, and size.
To better understand these guidelines, let’s examine the two key standards governing FR/AR clothing:
- ASTM F1506 – The Standard Performance Specification for Flame Resistant and Electric Arc Rated Protective Clothing Worn by Workers Exposed to Flames and Electric Arcs.
- NFPA 2112 – The Standard on Flame Resistant Clothing for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Short Duration Thermal Exposures from Fire.
ASTM F1506 Compliance
Section 6.1.1 of ASTM F1506 states:
“Sewing thread utilized in the construction of garments shall be made of an inherently flame-resistant fiber and shall not melt.”
This requirement applies strictly to construction thread, not embroidery thread. Thus, embroidery thread does not need to be flame-resistant.
Additionally, Appendix X1.2.5 clarifies:
“Logos, name tags, and other heraldry, such as brand names, flag patches, and company award insignias, are used to identify the organization and individual. If these items are not made from flame-resistant materials and are attached to the outside of an arc-rated garment, their overall area should individually occupy no more than 16 in² and in total occupy no more than 40 in².”
NFPA 2112 Compliance
Section 7.1.4.2 of NFPA 2112 states:
“Labels and emblems not being represented as flame-resistant shall not be required to be tested for heat resistance.”
Additionally, Section 7.2 outlines Thread Requirements:
“Specimens of all sewing thread utilized in the construction of flame-resistant garments, excluding embroidery, shall be made of an inherently flame-resistant fiber, shall be tested for heat resistance as specified in Section 8.6, and shall not melt.”
This explicitly excludes embroidery thread from the flame-resistance requirement.
Lastly, Annex A, Section A.7.1.2.1 advises:
“If non-flame-resistant emblems are attached to the exterior of a garment, the maximum number should be five with no individual emblem covering an area greater than 103 cm² (16.0 in²) or total area from all these emblems covering an area greater than 258 cm² (40 in²).”
Summary of Guidelines
Both ASTM F1506 and NFPA 2112 confirm that flame-resistant thread is not required for direct embroidery, emblems, name patches, or heraldry. However, they provide the following best practices:
- Individual emblems or designs should not exceed 16 in².
- The combined area of all emblems should not exceed 40 in².
- A maximum of five emblems is recommended by NFPA 2112.
Best Practices for Employers
While these guidelines are not legally mandated, employers should consider them when implementing FR/AR clothing programs. Adhering to these recommendations can enhance employee protection while ensuring compliance with industry standards.
For more information or guidance on best practices for FR/AR programs, contact our team of protective apparel experts. At REED Manufacturing, we are committed to keeping your workforce safe!
