What’s the Difference Between Arc-Rated and Flame-Resistant Clothing?

When it comes to workplace safety, especially in electrical, utility, or industrial settings, protective clothing isn’t optional—it’s essential. But if you've ever browsed PPE gear, you've likely come across the terms flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR). While they’re related, they’re not the same—and understanding the difference can be critical to your safety.

Flame-Resistant (FR) Clothing: The Basics

Flame-resistant clothing is designed to self-extinguish when exposed to flame. It doesn’t melt, drip, or continue to burn once the ignition source is removed.

Key Features of FR Clothing:

• Protects against flash fire or brief flame exposure
• Meets standards such as NFPA 2112
• Common in oil & gas, chemical, and refinery industries
• Limits burn injury and provides crucial escape time

Recommended FR Clothing from Novarlo

•  Bulwark - iQ Series® Comfort Woven Men's Lightweight FR Shirt – NFPA 2112 compliant, great for all-day wear

Link: Bulwark - iQ Series® Comfort Woven Men's Lightweight FR Shirt

• Ariat - FR M4 Relaxed Basic Boot Cut Jean - Flint – Durable FR protection with a comfortable fit

Link: Ariat - FR M4 Relaxed Basic Boot Cut Jean - Flint

• Blaklader FR Utility Work Pants – Functional design with FR protection for harsh environments

Link: BlakLader - FR Stretch Pants - 8,9cal, CAT 2

•  Drifire FR Base Layer Long Sleeve Shirt – A breathable FR option for layering under outerwear

Link: DRIFIRE Thermal Long Sleeve T-Shirt - Fire (FR) and Arc Flash Resistan

Arc-Rated (AR) Clothing: For Electrical Hazards

Arc-rated clothing offers protection against electrical arc flash hazards. All AR clothing is FR, but not all FR is AR-rated. Arc-rated gear must pass ASTM F1506 and carry a calorie rating (cal/cm²) to indicate its protective level.

Key Features of AR Clothing:

• Tested to resist arc flash heat and blast pressure
• Must comply with ASTM F1506 and NFPA 70E
• Required for electricians, utility workers, linemen, and substation personnel
• Calorie ratings determine PPE Category (CAT 1 to CAT 4)

Recommended Arc-Rated Gear from Novarlo

•  Drifire FR Helix Long Sleeve Tee Shirts - CAT 2, 12 cal/cm² – Soft, wicking fibers against the skin provide comfort and help to regulate skin temperature

Link: Drifire FR Helix Long Sleeve Tee Shirts - CAT 2

• Ariat - FR Rev Pullover Hoodie – CAT 2, 22 cal/cm² – lightweight warmth, and dependable protection in a flame-resistant hoodie built for extreme work environments

Link: Ariat - FR Rev Pullover Hoodie

• Work Pants - Flash Fire (FR) and Arc Flash Resistant – CAT 2, 9.7 cal/cm² – comfortable with lightweight fabric, reinforced stress points and dress style waistband and belt loops for a professional appearance.

Link: FR Work Pants - Flash Fire/Arc Flash Resistant, 4 Pockets

•  BlakLader -FR Hooded Sweatshirt - 17 cal, CAT 2 – Most comfortable thing you will wear on the job site

Link: BlakLader -FR Hooded Sweatshirt - 17 cal, CAT 2

FR vs. AR: Quick Comparison

Why It Matters

Wearing the wrong gear can result in serious injury—or worse. If you're in an electrical environment, FR-only clothing won’t protect you from arc flash. That’s why choosing arc-rated gear is crucial for proper safety and compliance.

 OSHA requires employers to protect workers exposed to electrical hazards under 29 CFR 1910.269 and 1910.132, which includes ensuring proper arc-rated PPE is provided.

1910.269 - Electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

At Novarlo, we stock trusted brands like Ariat, Drifire, Bulwark, and Blaklader

Pick Protection Based on the Risk

• Working around flash fire hazards? Choose FR garments certified to NFPA 2112.
• Working near live electrical equipment? Select AR-rated gear with the right CAT level.

 Protect yourself today – shop premium FR and AR clothing at Novarlo.com