What is NFPA 2112?

NFPA 2112 is the National Fire Protection Association Standard on Flame-Resistant Clothing for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Flash Fire. This standard establishes the minimum performance and testing requirements for flame-resistant garments and the fabrics used in their construction. It is designed to provide industrial workers with protection from flash fire hazards, which are rapid and high-intensity fires that can result from fuel-air mixtures igniting.

Key Points About NFPA 2112:

1. Purpose:

   • To minimize injuries and fatalities caused by flash fires in environments like oil and gas, petrochemical, and other industries where such hazards are present.

2. Certification:

   • Garments and fabrics that meet NFPA 2112 undergo rigorous testing, including flame resistance, heat resistance, and thermal shrinkage resistance.
   • Certified products must also pass durability testing to ensure the protection remains effective after repeated laundering and use.

3. Performance Requirements:

   • The garment must not allow more than 50% total body burn during a flash fire exposure of 3 seconds as determined by testing on a thermal manikin.
   • Materials must meet standards for flame resistance, not melting or dripping during exposure.

4. Testing Methods:

   • Heat and thermal shrinkage testing.
   • Flash fire simulation using ASTM F1930 standards (a manikin test in a controlled flash fire environment).

5. Applications:

   • Commonly used in industries where workers face potential flash fire risks, such as oil refineries, chemical plants, and fuel transportation.

6. Complementary Standards:

   • NFPA 2113 provides guidelines for the proper selection, use, care, and maintenance of flame-resistant garments certified to NFPA 2112.

By adhering to NFPA 2112, employers ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations and provide their employees with appropriate protective gear for hazardous environments.