Frequently Asked Questions

You asked, we answered. Below, you’ll find our responses to customer questions on industry terminology, GlenGuard fabric applications, cleaning, and more.
What does AR/FR stand for?
AR/FR stands for “arc-rated, flame-resistant”. It is a shorthand acronym referring to a class of dual-hazard safety fabrics that are used to make arc-rated and flame-resistant protective clothing.
What does “arc-rated” mean in fabric?
Arc rated fabrics are designed to resist arc flashes, which are violent electrical explosions that subject anyone nearby to blinding light, molten metal, and temperatures four times hotter than the surface of the sun.
What does “flame-resistant” mean in fabric?
Flame resistant fabric is designed specifically to resist ignition and melting during fire, whether that’s a flash fire or another kind of thermal event.
Are all arc-rated fabrics also flame resistant?
All arc-rated fabric is flame resistant, but not all flame-resistant fabric is arc-rated. Dual hazard AR/FR protective clothing is the only kind that is designed to resist both arc flashes and flash fires.
What’s the difference between inherent flame resistance and chemically dependent flame-resistance?
Inherently flame-resistant fabrics are made with fibers that have flame resistance properties built into their structure. This means that the protection is intrinsic and can never be washed or worn out. On the other hand, if a fabric has been treated with chemicals to make it flame resistant, it’s more likely that repeated wear, wash, and hazard exposure could compromise the level of protection it provides.
What does solution-dyed mean in fabric?
Instead of dyeing the fabric after it's made, solution dyeing adds color directly into the fiber before it's ever woven. The result is color that's locked in from the start, so it won't fade in the sun or wash out over time. All of GlenGuard’s fabrics are solution-dyed to prolong color and vibrancy.
What types of workwear garments can be made using GlenGuard?
Coveralls, pants, shirts, vests, jackets, bib overall, outerwear, and reinforcement for stress areas.
What is the GlenGuard Wickzz moisture management system?
GlenGuard’s proprietary Wickzz Moisture Management System rapidly drives moisture away from skin to the outside of the fabric, allowing the wearer to stay cooler, drier, and more comfortable while working.
Who is required to wear FR Hi-Vis clothing?
FR Hi-Vis clothing should be worn in situations where workers need to be visible, as well as protected from possible fire. The flame-resistant qualities of GlenGuard’s material help protect workers from flash fires while the high-visibility reflective qualities help the worker to clearly be seen.
What can I wear underneath my FR Hi-Vis vest?
Depending on the hazard risk analysis performed by your company, a FR shirt, FR jacket, or FR coveralls that meet the applicable safety requirements should be worn under your vest.
Does laundering affect the performance of GlenGuard?
No. As long as your workwear is laundered to the proper care and maintenance standards, GlenGuard’s inherent AR/FR protection, unrivaled comfort, and proven durability should not be affected.
What are the effects of bleaches and solvents on GlenGuard fabrics?
GlenGuard fabrics are resistant to most solvents and chlorine bleach—however, solvents and bleach should never be used with any FR fabric, no matter the maker.
What are the effects of aging, sunlight, and abrasion on GlenGuard FR?
None! GlenGuard fabrics are solution-dyed and innovatively woven to provide excellent resistance to any conditions you face on the job, including sun and extreme weather, repeated industrial washing, and physically-abrasive tasks.
How should GlenGuard fabric be cleaned?
GlenGuard fabrics will last longer if properly taken care of and cleaned. We recommend washing garments separately from everyday clothing without the use of fabric softener. GlenGuard fabrics can also be dry-cleaned.
How do I buy GlenGuard?
Our site does not offer direct purchase. Check out our retail partners on our Where to Buy for more information about where you can buy!
Does GlenGuard guarantee compliance?
No. However, GlenGuard believes that if workers are comfortable, they will be less likely to cheat compliance.
What level of FR clothing do I need for my job?
It depends, as all work environments are dynamic and have separate specific standards. GlenGuard recommends that employers conduct a thorough Hazard Risk Analysis and monitor workplace conditions in order to determine the best solution.

Still Have a Question?