Collection: Novarlo Blog

No-Shave November is a great cause, but facial hair can compromise the safety seal of tight-fitting respirators like N95s and half-mask respirators. OSHA’s standard (29 CFR 1910.134) prohibits facial hair that interferes with the respirator seal, as even light stubble can allow harmful particles to leak in. Workers can stay compliant and comfortable by choosing loose-fitting, beard-friendly options such as the Optrel Swiss Air PAPR, RPB Nova 3, or T-Link respirators. With the right PPE plan, teams can safely support men’s health awareness without sacrificing protection.

Many FR rental programs appear convenient at first but often lead to hidden fees, poor quality, and restrictive contracts that frustrate teams and drain budgets. Novarlo helps companies transition away from these costly rentals through phased conversions, trade-in credits, bulk discounts, and custom-branded replacements, all while maintaining OSHA 1910.269 and NFPA 70E compliance. With premium brands, no contracts, transparent pricing, and a complimentary ordering portal, Novarlo empowers businesses to take control and own their protection instead of renting it.

Understanding the difference between flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) clothing is crucial for workplace safety. While all AR gear is FR, only AR-rated clothing protects against electrical arc flash hazards and must meet specific standards like ASTM F1506 and NFPA 70E. FR clothing is essential for flash fire protection in industries like oil and gas, whereas AR gear is mandatory for electrical and utility work. Novarlo.com offers a full range of compliant FR and AR apparel from top brands to match your job’s specific risks.

Working around powerlines in bad weather dramatically increases the risk of arc flash, electrocution, and injury. That’s why linemen and electricians need specialized PPE that’s both arc-rated and weather-resistant. From FR rainwear and insulated gloves to anti-fog face protection and Type II Class E hard hats, Novarlo offers OSHA- and NFPA 70E-compliant gear built for stormy conditions. Stay safe, dry, and compliant by layering up with protective apparel that performs when the weather doesn’t.

Negative pressure respirators are affordable, lightweight, and effective but rely on a tight seal and the wearer’s breathing effort, which can cause fatigue. Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) use a battery-powered blower to provide clean airflow, making them more comfortable and suitable for workers with facial hair. While negative pressure masks require annual OSHA fit testing, many PAPRs eliminate this step, offering convenience and higher protection factors. At Novarlo, we help crews choose the right respiratory solution based on their unique hazards and worksite needs.

Arc flash is a deadly hazard in electrical work, and selecting the proper arc-rated apparel based on Cal ratings is essential for safety and regulatory compliance. The Cal rating measures thermal protection, with PPE categories ranging from 4 to 40+ cal/cm² based on NFPA 70E standards. Workers should determine their required protection level through risk assessments, equipment labels, or NFPA 70E tables. Novarlo offers a full range of comfortable, compliant arc flash gear designed to match real-world job demands—from low to extreme exposure.

ANSI high-visibility apparel is classified into Classes 1, 2, and 3 based on the level of risk in a work environment. Class 1 is suitable for low-risk areas with minimal traffic, while Class 2 is designed for moderate-risk environments with higher vehicle speeds or limited visibility. Class 3 provides the highest visibility for workers in high-risk areas such as highways or complex backgrounds. Choosing the correct class ensures better visibility, enhanced safety, and compliance with ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standards.

Fogging safety glasses are a major hazard on the job, impairing vision and increasing the risk of injury. This guide from Novarlo explains the causes of lens fogging and offers five effective prevention tips, including anti-fog coatings, ventilation, and proper fit. It also outlines different types of safety eyewear such as standard glasses, OTG styles, goggles, face shields, and side-shield models with specific product recommendations. Following OSHA guidelines and selecting ANSI Z87.1-compliant gear ensures workers stay protected and compliant in any work environment.

Falls are a leading cause of workplace fatalities, making proper fall protection essential for anyone working at height. This blog outlines three key systems: fall arrest (to stop a fall in progress), fall restraint (to prevent reaching fall hazards), and positioning systems (to stabilize workers during tasks). It also emphasizes factors like fall distance, anchor points, job type, and environmental conditions when selecting gear. Novarlo offers compliant equipment for each system, helping workers stay safe and OSHA-compliant on the job.