What Are Today’s Advanced FR Rainwear Options?

September 28, 2015

This is the second post in a three-part series reviewing the 2015-16 El Niño outlook and arc-rated flame resistant rainwear options available to outdoor workers facing arc flash or flash fire hazards. In this post we explore advanced rainwear options, while in our next post we feature some cost-effective rainwear solutions that are tried and true.

As we have seen in our first post, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predictions show that the 2015 El Niño may be unusually strong and is likely to last through winter 2015 into spring 2016.

Luckily, recent advancements in arc-rated flame resistant (FR) rainwear have made it easier than ever to avoid the dangers of heat and cold stress and manage perspiration—without compromising on safety and compliance. Tyndale is a proud distributor of the latest in FR rainwear technology:

HYDROlite FR™ by NSA

Made with an exclusive 8.3oz Gore-Tex® Pyrad® material, the lightweight, next-generation HYDROlite FR™ rainwear is marketed as the most breathable on the market today. Gore-Tex® fabric features more than 9 billion pores per square inch! The pores are 20,000x smaller than a water droplet, preventing water from entering, while 700x larger than a water vapor molecule—allowing perspiration to escape. HYDROlite FR™ is available as a Jacket with D-Ring Opening (R30CY) and Bib Overall (R31CY).

Breathable, 100% waterproof durable Gore-Tex® Technology
3M™ Scotchlite™ FR Segmented Reflective Trim
ANSI/ISEA 107-2010: Class 3 (jacket), Class E (bib overall)
Arc rating: 31 cal (yellow; black areas are 34 cal) / HRC 3 arc flash protection (NFPA 70E-15)
Complies with ASTM F1891-12
Made in the USA

Rampart FR™ by NASCO

Designed for long-duration rain events but ideal for any foul weather condition, the revolutionary Rampart FR™ suit combines arc flash and flash fire protection into one comfortable, breathable, waterproof foul weather suit. Beyond protection from the hazards of the job, this dual hazard suit leverages exterior and interior moisture-management systems to keep workers dry and comfortable while avoiding heat and cold related illnesses. The line includes a Jacket with Roll-Away Hood and Fall Protection Access (R30FN), Plain Front Bib Overall (R31AN), and Elastic Waist Pant.

Electrostatic dissipative shell
Breathable moisture barrier with moisture-wicking 5.2 oz Polartec® PowerDry lining
3M™ Scotchlite™ FR Solid Reflective Trim
Triple-needle stitching
Arc rating: 13 cal (single layer; 22 cal with liner) / HRC 2 arc flash protection (NFPA 70E-15)
ANSI/ISEA 107-2010 Class 3 jacket, Class E bib overall or pant
Complies with ASTM F1891-12 and ASTM F2733
Made in the USA

Visit NOAA’s El Niño Portal to learn more about El Niño and review specific predictions for your area.

Ready to brave the storm? Try the HYDROlite FR™ for breathable arc flash protection or the Rampart FR™ for dual hazard protection – arc flash and flash fire – with moisture management. Contact your National Account Executive or call Tyndale at 800-356-3433 to request a quote or place your order.

Concerned your outerwear budget may not provide for the industry’s cutting-edge FR rainwear options? Leverage the important benefits of the waterproof layer and stay safe and dry with proven industry staples explored in the final post in our series. Contact Tyndale at 800-356-3433 to discuss your requirements and find the right FR rainwear solution today!