Is Hi-Vis Tape Flame Resistant?

Hi-vis arc-rated and flame resistant (AR / FR) garments sold by trusted brands – like Tyndale – in the United States are made with retro-reflective tape that is also flame resistant. Similar to the base AR / FR fabric, the reflective tape on these garments won’t ignite and continue to burn and won’t melt or drip in an arc flash or flash fire.

This is critical because it’s rarely, or never, the momentary thermal hazard – the arc flash or flash fire – that causes the worst outcomes. Instead, most catastrophic injuries and deaths are actually caused by flammable (non-FR) clothing or materials igniting and continuing to burn against the skin.

Keep in Mind: Hi-Vis Doesn’t Automatically Mean Flame Resistant

It’s important to note that not all hi-vis is AR / FR. Non-FR hi-vis garments do not utilize flame resistant reflective tape – and will ignite, burn, or melt in an arc flash or flash fire, causing injury. Never wear a non-FR garment – hi-vis or otherwise – over your AR / FR garments.

The Bottom Line

If you have an arc flash or flash fire hazard and need enhanced visibility on the jobsite, it’s important that you select hi-vis garments that are also AR / FR.

Always read the specs, verify the standards, and choose garments from trusted suppliers who use and certify their materials for both visibility and AR / FR performance.