NFPA 2112

NFPA 2112 is a critical standard that establishes minimum performance requirements and test methods for flame-resistant clothing designed to protect industrial personnel from short-duration thermal exposures from fires, commonly referred to as flash fires. Here are key details and requirements of NFPA 2112:

1. Scope and Purpose: NFPA 2112 specifies criteria for testing flame-resistant fabrics, components, and garments. It ensures that these garments can withstand and protect against the thermal hazards of flash fires, such as those encountered in industrial settings.

2. Testing Requirements:

   • Manikin Test (ASTM F1930): Garments must undergo testing using the ASTM F1930 manikin test. This test measures the percentage of second and third-degree burns on a standardized manikin exposed to a 3-second engulfment fire at 2 cal/cm². A garment must achieve less than 50% predicted body burn to pass.

   • Flame Resistance (ASTM D6413): Fabrics must not melt, drip, or have more than 2 seconds of afterflame, and must exhibit a char length of less than 4.0 inches when tested, and after 25 launderings.

3. Labeling and Certification:

   • All garments compliant with NFPA 2112 must have permanent and conspicuous product labels. These labels must indicate compliance with NFPA 2112 and include UL certification markings, which are essential for verifying that the garments meet the standard's requirements.

   • UL certification markings must be either attached to the product label, part of the product label, or immediately adjacent to it.

4. Updates in the 2018 Edition:

   • Terminology: The title and terminology within NFPA 2112 were updated to reflect a broader range of thermal exposures beyond traditional flash fires. This includes exposures such as vapor cloud fires, jet flames, and others.

   • Inherent Flame Resistance: This edition introduced the concept of "inherent flame resistance," aligning with standards from NFPA 1971, which refers to the intrinsic ability of fibers or polymers to resist flames.

   • Head, Neck, and Hand Protection: NFPA 2112-18 now includes provisions for garments designed to protect the head, neck, and hands. Requirements include specific performance criteria for shrouds, hoods, balaclavas, and gloves, such as heat transfer performance and char length limitations.

5. Additional Requirements:

   • Cold Weather Insulation: Guidance is provided for flame-resistant cold weather insulation, ensuring these garments meet specified performance criteria.

   • Non-FR Emblems: The standard limits the use of non-flame resistant emblems on garments to ensure that their presence does not compromise the protective properties of the flame-resistant fabric.

6. Availability: NFPA 2112 can be accessed online for viewing, download, or purchase through the NFPA website, which provides comprehensive information about the standard, including updates and related resources.

Compliance with NFPA 2112 is crucial for industries where workers face potential exposure to flash fires, ensuring their safety through the use of certified flame-resistant clothing that meets rigorous performance standards.