18 December 2025
what flame retardant technologies are used in alsico’s arc flash clothing?
Arc flash incidents are one of the most dangerous risks in electrical work. Protecting workers against sudden bursts of heat and flame requires more than standard workwear. Alsico’s arc flash clothing is engineered with advanced flame retardant properties, high-performance fabrics, and ergonomic design to provide uncompromised protection while supporting wearer comfort.
This article explores the technologies used in alsico’s arc flash range, the standards behind them, and how they protect workers in high-risk environments.
1. flame retardant fabrics
At the core of alsico’s arc flash garments is 100% inherent flame retardant (FR) fabric. Unlike garments that rely on chemical treatments, inherent FR fabrics integrate flame retardant properties directly into the fibres.
This approach ensures:
- Permanent protection: The flame retardant properties do not wash out or fade with wear.
- Durability: Fabrics maintain integrity even after repeated laundering.
- Consistent safety: Workers can rely on the same high level of protection over the garment’s lifetime.
In high-risk environments, this reliability is essential. Explore alsico’s protective workwear ranges for garments designed to meet industry demands.
2. high ELIM ratings
A key metric in arc flash safety is the Energy Limit Value (ELIM). This measures the maximum energy a garment can withstand from an electric arc without causing second-degree burns.
Most garments in alsico’s arc flash range achieve an 8+ ELIM rating, reflecting rigorous testing to international standards. The combination of inherent FR fabrics and high ELIM ratings ensures workers are shielded from the intense heat of electrical incidents.
This level of protection aligns with safety best practices and regulatory requirements, providing peace of mind for employers and employees alike. Learn more about arc flash protection in our helpful guide.
3. ergonomic and wearer-focused design
Protection is only effective if workers consistently wear it. Alsico addresses this with garments designed for natural movement.
Features include:
flexible fabrics
Lightweight and breathable materials support mobility.
ergonomic cuts
Garments move with the body, making overhead work, bending, and climbing easier.
inclusive sizing
Female-specific fits and extensive size ranges ensure comfort for all workers.
4. durability for high-risk environments
Alsico’s arc flash resistant clothing is built to last in the toughest conditions:
- Reinforced seams and stitching provide longevity in industrial settings.
- Colour options, including Hi-Vis Yellow, Hi-Vis Orange, and Navy, support workplace visibility and compliance.
- Alsico’s premium fabric technology maintains performance even under heavy use.
For workplaces requiring both arc flash protection and general workwear reliability, alsico garments deliver on both fronts. Explore our full range of high-visibility workwear and speak to our team for expert guidance.
5. independently verified safety
Alsico is a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier, a mark of trust and compliance. This certification confirms:
- Garments are tested and verified against safety claims.
- The company meets industry regulations and standards.
- Workers and employers can trust the protection offered by the clothing.
Choosing BSIF-registered suppliers ensures peace of mind and adherence to legal and safety obligations. Discover more about alsico’s BSIF membership and compliance.
what are alsico’s arc flash clothes made of?
Arc flash clothing is made from specialist flame retardant fabrics designed to resist heat, flame, and electrical energy. These materials use advanced fibre technology to create a protective barrier that won’t ignite, melt, or break open when exposed to an arc flash.
Unlike standard workwear, the protective qualities are engineered directly into the fabric structure, offering permanent defence against thermal hazards. The result is durable, lightweight clothing that delivers maximum safety to wearers without compromising on their comfort or mobility.
Protect your teams by choosing garments that meet standards and fit every worker.
frequently asked questions
An arc flash is a sudden release of electrical energy through the air when a high-voltage gap exists. It can produce extreme heat, intense light, and pressure, causing serious injury or burns.
Inherent FR fabrics have protective properties woven into the fibres. This ensures permanent protection that doesn’t wash out or degrade, unlike garments treated with chemical finishes.
ELIM (Energy Limit Value) indicates the energy a garment can withstand from an arc flash without causing second-degree burns. A rating of 8+ provides high-level protection in severe electrical incidents.
Yes. The range offers broad sizing and tailored fits for both men and women. Each garment is designed for comfort, mobility, and protection, ensuring every worker benefits from the same high ELIM-rated safety.
Selection depends on risk assessment, ELIM rating requirements, and workplace conditions. Alsico offers a variety of sizes, colours, and protective ratings to match specific needs.
learn more about the environments we supply into
Environments
wearer protection
Protection is weaved into every part of alsico, we build it into everything we do and it drives our every decision. Our protective workwear range covers all high-safety sectors.
Environments
healthcare
We are one of the largest healthcare uniform suppliers in the UK, and are the majority supplier for the new NHS National Healthcare Uniform project.
Environments
workwear
At alsico, we have shown excellence in a wide range of work uniforms, ranging from warehousing to global travel companies and from transportation to construction.
Environments
electrification
Our passion for creating innovative fabrics has positioned us as a key supplier in the exciting new sector of electrical safety clothing, from battery companies to aerospace, to all anti-static environments.
Environments
contamination control
We have developed a specialism in cleanroom clothing and uniforms, delivering exceptional performance in highly controlled environments.
Environments
emergency response
We are always honored to be asked to provide workwear for our emergency services teams. We put our trust in them to help to look after us, and we do our very best in return, delivering performance when it matters.
contact us
