Blog - Important News About Flame Retardant Fabrics

Why Proper Layering Can Save Your Life: A Guide to Arc Flash Protection

02 Nov 2024

Layering FR apparel is a highly effective strategy for maximizing protection against arc flash incidents. Here’s why layering matters:

Understanding Arc Flash Risks in Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging

15 Oct 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) are revolutionizing transportation, but with this innovation comes new safety challenges – especially for professionals installing vehicle charging stations.

Westex® on the Road: Fall 2024 Tradeshow Takeaways

General

01 Oct 2024

During August and September, our team was proud to attend two tradeshows alongside industry partners focused on safety. Showcasing Westex®, a Milliken brand, our associates highlighted how our FR/AR fabrics empower safety professionals to protect their workers every day.

Westex®: A Milliken Brand Hosts Live Flash Fire Event for Safety Professionals

Press Releases

17 Jun 2024

Last month, Westex®: A Milliken Brand hosted safety professionals from many US-based oil and gas companies for a one-day educational event featuring a live flash fire demonstration.

The Intersection of Sustainability and Flame-Resistant Fabrics: A Closer Look

22 May 2024

Developing flame-resistant, arc-rated (FR/AR) fabrics that prioritize safety and adhere to sustainable practices is a priority for the FR/AR market. This connection comes down to key touchpoints: material sourcing, fabric manufacturing, and garment lifecycle.

What to Look For in FR/AR Apparel: Balancing Comfort, Value, Versatility, and Protection

General

25 Apr 2024

Flame-resistant (FR), arc-rated (AR) apparel is critical when there’s a risk of electric arc flash, a gas/vapor/combustible dust fueled flash fire, or molten metal splash exposure.

Women at Work: Redefining Women’s Workwear & PPE

General

26 Mar 2024

Interview with Kelly Franko, owner of Seraphina Safety Apparel

The Value of Daily Wear PPE Programs for Industrial and Alternative Energy Sectors

General

13 Feb 2024

While the pursuit of progress is relentless in the utility, oil and gas, industrial, and alternative energy sectors. It’s essentially to understand the importance of daily wear PPE for errors with high human fallibility.

New Year, New Gear: Staying Up to the 2024 70E Standard

FR Technical

23 Jan 2024

Kicking off a new year presents various opportunities for change and improvement. One simple way to reach your target? Ensuring your electrical safety PPE programs are aligned with the 2024 NFPA 70E standard.

A Peek Behind the Curtain: Strategic Product Development at Westex

General

22 Dec 2023

Currently, there is significant demand for innovation in the PPE market. As industries evolve and complex challenges arise, we must push the boundaries of conventional solutions.

The Inside Scoop: A Recap from NSC Expo 2023

General

15 Nov 2023

The Westex team was thrilled to bring our newest products, latest industry insights and networking appetite to this year’s NSC Expo in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The Ongoing Evolution of Flame Resistant, Arc-Rated (FR/AR) Stretch Fabrics

General

01 Nov 2023

Demand for more comfortable FR/AR PPE continues to grow. At the top of many wearers’ minds is finding garments with stretch characteristics.

Inherent vs. Treated Flame Resistant, Arc-Rated (FR/AR) Fabrics: A Meaningful Distinction?

FR Technical

EMEA

25 Oct 2023

Well, before we decide if anything is meaningful, let’s discuss what the terms actually mean.

Looking Ahead to a More Sustainable Future: A Conversation with Lenzing Group

General

16 Oct 2023

In the protective apparel market, safety is king. But in recent years, apparel programs have started to evaluate how to integrate sustainability into the garments that keep the hardest working industries safe on the job.

Westex heads to A+A this autumn

EMEA

09 Oct 2023

Westex is looking forward to returning to Europe’s A+A safety expo this autumn. As the world’s leading trade fair for safety and health at work, this biennial show will be hosted in Düsseldorf, Germany from 24–27 October.

Westex commits to a net-zero future

EMEA

04 Oct 2023

Westex is proud to announce that as part of Milliken & Company, it is committed to working toward meeting the science-based targets in line with the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Preparing for the future: how to avoid heat stress

EMEA

22 Sep 2023

How do you prioritise comfort versus protection in hot conditions when it comes to the clothing you and your employees wear in typical, yet potentially dangerous, situations?

Key Drivers of New FR/AR Technology: Webinar Recap

23 Aug 2023

In a recent webinar with Scott Francis, Technical Sales Manager, we discussed the key drivers of flame-resistant and arc-rated (FR/AR) fabric technology.

Three Keys to Putting Sustainability in Practice: Webinar Recap

General

28 Jul 2023

Jeff Strahan, Ph.D., our Director of Research, Compliance and Sustainability, shared three key factors of sustainable manufacturing that companies everywhere need to keep in mind in a recent webinar. If you missed it, here’s a quick recap.

The Inside Scoop: A Recap from ASSP Safety 2023

General

27 Jun 2023

Westex visited ASSP’s signature tradeshow this year, Safety 2023 in San Antonio, TX, to show the latest from our product development team, share updates on our current initiatives, meet with our customers and interact with visitors from across the country.

FR vs Arc-Rated Clothing—What's the Difference?

FR Technical

22 May 2023

FR vs. AR—two incredibly important terms with distinct roles that sound far too similar to leave unexplained. Let’s talk about how they’re different and why that impacts the decisions you make in protecting your team.

Setting the Standard: Why Quality Assurance Matters

General

24 Apr 2023

When we say that our flame-resistant and arc-rated (FR/AR) garments are “proven,” take more than our word for it. Trust the quality checks. Trust the certifications. Trust rounds and rounds of comprehensive testing procedures—all performed more often than required.

Defense Wins Championships: The Importance of FR/AR Gear

General

FR Technical

FR Fabric Education

Ferrous Metals & Welding Protection

13 Mar 2023

It’s been said that offense wins games, but defense wins championships. Selecting protective gear that defends your workers in a complex market full of standards is difficult—so we’re creating an easy-to-learn logic to help you and your employees stay protected.

The Latest Era of Westex Manufacturing

General

17 Feb 2023

We recognize your need for the on-time delivery of sustainable, high-quality products, and we’re always willing to roll up our sleeves and put in the work to deliver on what you care about most.

How Complacency and Human Error could put Your Life on the Line

07 Nov 2022

Complacency on a job site is usually unintentional, but it always carries a risk. When workers who are supposed to be outfitted with flame-resistant/arc-rated personal protective equipment (FR/AR PPE) become complacent and allow errors, the risk may turn into a life-threatening situation.

FR Manufacturing Through a More Sustainable Lens

28 Oct 2022

Let’s explore three ways Westex®: A Milliken Brand fabrics are helping to create a more sustainable future, with connections between proven flame-resistant/arc-rated (FR/AR) fabrics and steam, renewable wood, and even 53,000 gallons of water.

What do you need to know about PFAS and FR/AR Fabrics?

14 Sep 2022

Given the regulatory activity surrounding PFAS, it is becoming increasingly clear that the FR/AR textile and garment industries will have to adapt because FR/AR garments are vital – and in many instances, mandatory – to protect workers in hazardous workplace environments.

“One Size [Does Not] Fit All”: The Evolution of Women’s PPE

14 Sep 2022

How do we alter flame-resistant/arc-rated (FR/AR) garment programs to suit women?

Westex®: A Milliken Brand and Lenzing Partner for Protective Textile Sustainability

24 Jun 2022

Partnership offers environmentally-focused FR textiles, marketing program

Facing a Combustible Dust Hazard? Consider These Three Questions.

General

14 Dec 2021

Amid today’s workplace safety landscape, combustible dust is a conundrum. Dust in the workplace is unavoidable; yet, managing dust is much more than a routine housekeeping consideration. Anything from sugar to metal to rubber can produce dust, and in manufacturing settings, these dust particles can pose serious hazard risks. These...

How FR/AR Fabrics Help Mitigate Burn Injuries

General

23 Nov 2021

Safety managers are constantly analyzing their site risks to create the safest possible environment for their workers. Especially when considering short-term thermal events, like arc flashes or flash fires, stacking the deck with proactive and reactive measures are critical in mitigating injuries. Burn injuries are one of the primary considerations...

Westex Heads to NSC Safety Congress

General

12 Oct 2021

This fall, the Westex: A Milliken Brand team is excited to return to the annual NSC Safety Congress and Expo, hosted this year in Orlando, FL, October 11-13. The event — a key safety industry convening for more than 100 years — brings together professionals to focus on industry-leading safety...

Mark Your Calendar for ASSP Safety 2021!

General

10 Sep 2021

As we all adjust to a new normal in the era of COVID-19, safety is more essential than ever. This month, the Westex team will travel to Austin, TX, to participate in ASSP Safety 2021—a major professional conference bringing together the safety industry. From September 13-15, Westex: A Milliken Brand...

Is My Employer Responsible for Providing Electrical Ppe?

General

31 Aug 2021

NFPA® 70E provides a system of checks and balances to account for electrical hazard safety on your job site. The hierarchy of risk controls provides safety managers and employers a host of administrative and engineering tools to help prevent arc flash incidents and mitigate injuries should an incident occur. Because...

Navigating PPE Needs Amid a Pandemic

General

17 Aug 2021

If you’ve been involved in the oil & gas, electrical, or industrial manufacturing industries, chances are you’re familiar with personal protective equipment—PPE for short. PPE plays a critical role in protecting workers who face any number of job site hazards, from combustible dust, flash fire and arc flash incidents to...

Five NFPA 70E Updates to Note for Your PPE Program

General

15 Jun 2021

Setting the tone for the latest edition, the 2021 NFPA® 70E® Standard cover prominently features the hierarchy of risk controls, first introduced in the 2018 edition. Recommitting and reemphasizing the importance of the hierarchy of risk controls, the cover—and the standard as a whole—draws attention to this tool, which...

FR/AR Garments: The Zone Defense of Thermal Hazard Protection Programs

General

22 Mar 2021

Are you a March Madness fan? Chances are, you’ve never contemplated the similarities between zone defense of your favorite basketball team and the “defense” that flame-resistant (FR)/arc-rated (AR) PPE plays in mitigating thermal hazard risks in workplace settings. In either case, solid zone defense and FR/AR PPE do more...

Introducing the Westex App

General

09 Feb 2021

Westex Launches Mobile App to Streamline FR/AR Product Selection Process The first-to-market tool matches products to global safety standards SPARTANBURG, SC (Feb. 9, 2021)—Westex: A Milliken Brand, announced today the launch of a new product selection app, the Westex App, developed to provide users a way to custom build a...

Introducing the Polartec® FR Collection

General

Press Releases

01 Dec 2020

Westex and Polartec Debut Polartec Flame Resistant Collection Two category leaders collaborate to produce flame resistant/arc-rated knits certified for the job with overtime comfort. SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Two Milliken & Company textile businesses—Westex®, a leader in dual-hazard protective textiles, and Polartec®, the premium provider of innovative and sustainable textile solutions—announce...

A Global View of Electric Arc Standards

General

08 Oct 2020

Those who work in the industrial environment face multiple threats. In this instance, we’ll focus on intense electric-related hazards, specifically electric arcs. During an electric arc, temperatures can reach up to 35,000°F, or 20.000°C (that’s hotter than the surface of the sun), so wearing the...

What the Required Dust Hazard Analysis Means for Your Team

General

05 Jun 2020

If you’ve been waiting to complete a few of the bigger tasks on your agenda, use this season to do some much-needed spring cleaning—especially if your facility faces combustible dust hazards. Per the NFPA® 652 Standard on the Fundamentals of Combustible Dust (2019), you’re required to complete a Dust Hazard...

Arc Flash Safety Updates at an NFPA 70E Workshop Near You

General

20 Jan 2020

We’re passionate about educating the electrical industry on safety standards that address short-term thermal hazards, like arc flash and flash fire. It’s how we know we’re helping equip you with not only the industry’s leading flame resistant/arc-rated (FR/AR) textiles for personal protective equipment (PPE), but also helping apply these methods...

NEC, NESC, NFPA 70E, and Arc Rated PPE: A Quick Look at Electrical Industry Standards

General

06 Jan 2020

Throughout the electrical industry, consensus standards provide critical information advising how to safeguard employees facing arc flash hazards. These standards—NEC, NESC, and NFPA 70E—are all meant to guide safety initiatives, but which one is relevant for you? We break down each standard and what they mean for your workplace....

Identifying and Reducing the Impacts of Combustible Dust Hazards

General

23 Dec 2019

Combustible dust is a significant concern across various industries and with good reason. Combustible dust incidents can lead to serious property damage and cause life-threatening injuries. Analyzing your work environment and enacting preventative measures, such as robust housekeeping and engineering control protocols, can make all the difference. Even with these...

Caring for your FR/AR Garments: Three Vital Considerations

FR Fabric Education

13 Dec 2019

While properly wearing flame resistant (FR), arc-rated (AR) personal protective equipment (PPE) helps protect employees facing arc flash and short duration thermal exposures from fire, like flash fires, it is equally important to clean and maintain these protective garments. Proper care practices help ensure a PPE garment’s safety properties remain...

The Difference Between Inherent and Treated Fabrics, and What it Means for Your Safety Program

General

09 Dec 2019

The FR industry certainly has its share of jargon, and especially when that jargon has little scientific background, it can lead to muddled and complicated decisions. In our white paper, What’s in a Word: Inherent Fabric, Treated Fabric, and What They Mean in the World of Flame Resistant Fabrics, we...

5 Reasons to Implement FR/AR PPE Training

FR Fabric Education

21 Nov 2019

Flame resistant (FR), arc-rated (AR) personal protective equipment (PPE) is an important part of establishing a well-rounded safety program. Before donning their FR/AR PPE, however, employees need to be educated about their PPE garments so they can properly guard themselves against workplace hazards such as arc flashes or flash fires....

Elevating Performance Standards: How Westex by Milliken is Raising the Bar on Testing Protocols

General

18 Nov 2019

Part of designing reputable protective fabrics is ensuring they provide certified, consistent results both in the lab and in the field—otherwise, end users may be at risk. Flame resistant (FR), arc-rated (AR) fabrics incorporated into personal protective equipment (PPE) act as a final layer of defense against hazards like arc...

Using Customer Insights to Inspire Meaningful Innovation

General

31 Oct 2019

When we look to develop new flame resistant (FR) technologies, we often draw inspiration from unmet needs in the industry. Many times, our conversations in the field help us better identify areas where we can fill a gap to better protect workers in the electrical and oil and gas industries...

Tailored to Women: The Case for Utilizing Women-Specific FR/AR Garments in the Workplace

General

24 Oct 2019

Until recently, flame resistant (FR), arc-rated (AR) garments were one size fits all—meaning both men and women wore the same styles. Women in the oil and gas and electrical industries thus donned ill-fitting FR/AR garments day in and day out, because these garments were largely constructed with men in mind....

The Last Line of Defense: Four Ways Daily Wear FR/AR PPE Improves Safety Programs

General

11 Oct 2019

For worksites where short-term thermal hazards are present, flame resistant (FR), arc-rated (AR) personal protective equipment (PPE) is a critical component in providing protection in the event of an unexpected incident, like arc flash, flash fire, or dust combustion. While key, however, it is important to note that when designing...

Three Ways Westex® DH Base Layer Fabric Changes the Game for FR/AR PPE Programs

FR Fabric Education

03 Sep 2019

Drawing from customer feedback and suggestions, the Westex® DH line of performance flame resistant (FR), arc rated (AR) fabrics was created to meet the most requested and pressing end-user needs for thermal hazard FR/AR personal protective equipment (PPE). Durable and robust, the line offers superior arc flash and flash fire...

Cone Denim and Westex by Milliken continue partnership for stylish FR denim daily wear

General

14 Aug 2019

Collaboration is key for discovering creative and sustainable solutions to meet customers’ needs. To that end, we are excited to share our successful collaboration with Cone Denim - leaders in premium denim for consumer apparel - will be renewed to continue offering our customers cutting-edge arc rated (AR) flame resistant...

Inside FR Technology Development: An Interview with Drew Child

FR Fabric Education

31 Jul 2019

Decades of expertise and a deep understanding of the science of a flame go into creating new arc rated (AR) and flame resistant (FR) fabrics. We sat down with Drew Child, Director of Technology and Program Director for Milliken’s Uniform and Protective Fabrics Business, to discover more about the process...

Five facts you may not know about FR fabrics

FR Fabric Education

15 Jul 2019

There are many factors that go into creating a high-quality FR fabric. While there are many flame resistant (FR) properties that are often mentioned, such as durability and industry certifications, there are some characteristics that tend to receive less attention. We rounded up five interesting facts that you may not...

Cone Denim and Westex by Milliken Extend FR Denim Partnership: Continuing the tradition of innovation and heritage

Press Releases

26 Jun 2019

June 26, 2019, Greensboro, N.C. – Two industry powerhouses Cone Denim® and Westex by Milliken, the flame resistant (FR) textiles business of global manufacturer Milliken & Company, are pleased to announce they have extended their exclusive partnership to provide innovative flame resistant denim apparel fabrics for the industrial workwear market...

Specifying Proper PPE Clothing to Protect Against Hazards in the Aluminum Industry

General

25 Jun 2019

While the aluminum industry can generally be a safe place to work, there are occupational hazards that employees need to be aware of and actively guard themselves against. It is important for safety managers to fully assess the workplace for the risk of potential short-term thermal hazards and design a...

Four Ways Clothing Can Contribute to Reducing the Impact of Heat Stress

General

13 Jun 2019

Heat stress can be a serious concern year round, but it is especially prevalent in the warmer summer months. There are many factors that contribute to an increased risk of heat stress including high external temperature, humidity levels, sun exposure, lack of breeze, not drinking enough water, intensity of labor,...

Milliken & Company to Acquire Polartec from Versa Capital Management

Press Releases

11 Jun 2019

Headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, the Polartec brand carries a respected portfolio of fabric technologies for outdoor apparel, from performance-driven and consumer-focused textiles, to flame-resistant, workwear and military-grade fabrics. The addition of the Polartec brand—particularly its outdoor and fleece textiles—rounds out Milliken’s comprehensive portfolio, allowing the company to deliver unprecedented access...

Westex® by Milliken® expands line of performance FR fabrics, educates industry at ASSP 2019

Press Releases

10 Jun 2019

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Westex by Milliken, an industry-leading arc-rated (AR) flame-resistant (FR) textiles manufacturer, will present its line of protective textiles at ASSP Safety 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana, June 9-12. As a Milliken & Company business, Westex by Milliken builds on the trusted fabric brand by incorporating its parent...

Westex Launching New Style for Popular Westex® DH Performance FR Fabric at ASSP Safety 2019, Booth 1727

General

04 Jun 2019

Every year, safety professionals, manufacturers and more gather at ASSP Safety to attend educational seminars, review best practices, discuss industry trends and find the latest innovations in safety. Westex by Milliken is a regular exhibitor, and we always enjoy connecting with others who have the same mission we do: to...

Three Ways to Use AR/FR PPE to Stay Safe on the Job

General

17 May 2019

May is Electrical Safety Month, which is a good reminder to ensure your team’s safety efforts are in line with the updated industry consensus standard NFPA 70E. Workers in the electrical field are exposed to unexpected hazards, including arc flashes, so safety precautions should be reviewed frequently to help reduce...

Understanding Primary vs. Secondary FR Protection

General

02 May 2019

Safety managers have a very important decision to make when determining the type of personal protective equipment (PPE) that their team needs. Before nailing down the fabric, apparel and PPE brands they would like to select, they first need to determine whether their team, or even specific members of their...

Three Key Points in Defining Thermal Hazard Mitigation Programs

General

27 Apr 2019

It is every employer’s goal to keep its workers safe on the job, but providing for the safety of your employees requires a holistic approach. Forming just one dimension of a hazard mitigation program, personal protective equipment (PPE) can be extremely beneficial when specified correctly. It is important, though, to...

Illustrating NFPA 70E Updates

Arc Flash Videos

General

18 Mar 2019

When the 2018 edition of NFPA 70E went into effect, many within the industry took time to explore how the standard changes would affect both employers and workers. There are a number of articles you can turn to on the subject; indeed, even Westex by Milliken has penned a few...

What “88/12 FR” Means

General

13 Mar 2019

In our line of work, it is critical to understand the needs of our customers. From the nature of the daily hazards you face to the ever-important subject of budgets, Westex by Milliken understands that a number of factors go into selecting the right arc-rated/flame resistant (AR/FR) fabric for a...

5 Benefits of Westex® DH Performance FR Fabric

FR Fabric Education

General

Arc Flash Videos

FR Technical

23 Oct 2018

Unexpected arc flash and short-duration thermal exposure from fire hazards, also known as flash fire, are a daily reality for electric utility and oil and gas workers. To help keep workers safe on the job, industrial personnel require ongoing hazard protection in addition to specific attire for certain tasks. Everyday...

Eight Things Oil and Gas Workers Should Know About Flash Fire

FR Fabric Education

General

17 Sep 2018

Flash fires and fuel-fed fires are different, and it's critical to distinguish between the two for various safety reasons. The potential exists for flash fires in the oil and gas industry. Flash fires are sudden, intense fires caused by ignition of flammable substances in air. While flash fires cannot be...

Combining High-Visibility & FR Resistance for Multi-Hazard Protection

FR Fabric Education

General

13 Aug 2018

Workers in utility and oil and gas industries have specific needs for high-visibility and FR protection on the job. They operate in areas with large amounts of electrically charged equipment and flammable materials, often during nighttime and in complex settings. While the need for FR PPE in these lines of...

Three Questions to Consider in Creating a PPE Program for the Oil and Gas Industry

General

30 May 2018

For those in the oil & gas industry, flash fires are a prevalent risk throughout the upstream and downstream lines. The flammability of oil, as well as the extraction and refinement processes, requires thoughtful personal protective equipment (PPE) selection, so that workers are protected on the job. With the updates...

Four NFPA 2112 Updates that Could Impact Your FR Program

FR Fabric Education

FR Technical

General

18 Apr 2018

Back in the fall, NFPA 2112: Standard on Flame-Resistant Clothing for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Short-Duration Thermal Exposures from Fire saw new changes implemented for the 2018 edition, which went into effect on September 6, 2017. The 2018 edition is a barometer for the safety industry as a whole...

Beyond Compliance: Specifying Reliable FR/AR Workwear

General

FR Fabric Education

FR Technical

11 Apr 2018

Know what you are truly buying: The flame resistant, arc rated (FR/AR) fabric in workwear is the single largest factor in determining the garment’s protection level, comfort, and overall value. Every day, workers in electrical maintenance, utility, oil and gas, petrochemical, and steel industries work in hazardous environments. Unexpected and...

Four Parties Affected by NFPA 70E Updates

Arc Flash Videos

General

15 Mar 2018

The updated NFPA 70E can be explored through the lens of parties impacted. Through analyzing party responsibility, safety engineers and managers can make informed decisions to comply. As an industry standard, NFPA 70E outlines elements of an electrical safety program to protect workers from high-risk electrical hazards they come into...

Protecting Electrical Workers & Peace of Mind with AR/FR Apparel

Arc Flash Videos

General

19 Feb 2018

Electrical workers face the risk of unexpected arc flash incidents throughout their daily operations by the very nature of their job. The right apparel can offer protection and peace of mind. When arc flashes occur, the most severe injuries often are the result of non-flame-resistant clothing igniting and continuing to...

Believe in Safety: A Survivor's Insight

Arc Flash Videos

General

15 Dec 2017

After surviving an arc flash accident, which landed him in the hospital and required an extensive recovery process, Brandon Schroeder keenly felt the value in sharing his story. Not only was it a poignant narrative, but it also drove home the fact that an arc flash accident impacts more than...

Three Takeaways from the NFPA 70E Twitter Chat

General

Arc Flash Videos

29 Nov 2017

Today’s #70EChat, hosted by NECA and Westex by Milliken, brought the electrical industry together to discuss the ever-evolving world of electrical safety. Exploring the 2018 edition of NFPA 70E – and more importantly, what that means for electrical contractors – the #70EChat raised important questions, offered new perspectives, and opened...

Milliken & Company Named One of America's Safest Companies

General

16 Nov 2017

When a work environment is safe, workers are free to focus on their jobs. That is the driving belief behind Milliken’s commitment to safety. We are happy to announce that Milliken & Company has been included in America’s Safest Companies List. Created in 2002, American’s Safest Companies is a corporate...

Four Takeaways from Experiencing a Live Arc Flash Demonstration

General

02 Nov 2017

As any safety manager will tell you, understanding hazards is as important as identifying them. Through understanding, you can appropriately plan for and mitigate job worksite hazards in order to build a safety program that successfully protects your employees. Recently, Westex by Milliken hosted a one-day educational session to help...

Five AR/FR Fabrics Designed to Meet End User Needs

Arc Flash Videos

FR Fabric Education

General

30 Oct 2017

Last month, Westex by Milliken joined the industry in one of the largest safety conferences in the U.S. – NSC Congress & Expo. It is an opportunity to be immersed in the industry - gleaning information, learning the latest developments and experiencing products in-person. For us, it is also an...

The Danger Hiding in Plain Sight: Generic "88/12 FR" Fabrics

General

FR Fabric Education

14 Sep 2017

The vast number of flame resistant fabrics, garments and manufacturers in today’s market has led to confusion around the differences between flame resistant (FR) fabric types, FR fabric manufacturing methods and FR garment brands. Many don’t realize that the term “88/12 FR” is nothing more than a fabric content or...

Standing Up for Worker Safety: A Case Study on Generic vs. Branded FR Fabrics

General

Arc Flash Videos

FR Fabric Education

29 Aug 2017

When Dan joined an American company as Environmental Health and Safety Manager, his team leader and Director of Environmental Health and Safety, Robin, immediately informed him that the field employees, had a high exposure to arc flash over the course of their daily operations. The company’s 1,500 field technicians interact...

Understanding Your Liability in Third-Party Contractor Situations: A Case Study Review

Arc Flash Videos

General

15 Aug 2017

Last year, a Los Angeles County jury found Qualcomm liable for $7.1 million[1] in damages as a result of a burn incident. Qualcomm, a telecommunications equipment company, was found negligent in an electrical fire incident, where a third-party contractor suffered third-degree burns while servicing electrical equipment on the company’s premise....

Rethinking Risk Assessment in Today’s Work Environments

FR Fabric Education

General

FR Technical

16 Jun 2017

By Matt Burtney Content Marketing Associate, Superior Glove and Scott Francis Midwest Regional Market Manager, Westex by Milliken Embracing a Safety Culture: Since 1970, the workforce in the United States has doubled. In that same time, on-the-job fatalities have fallen by 68%. What’s the driving force behind this change? Promoting...

How ASSE Safety 2017 Innovations Enhance Employee Safety

FR Fabric Education

FR Technical

General

12 Jun 2017

By Scott Francis Midwest Regional Market Manager, Westex by Milliken and Samantha Hoch Marketing Communications Strategist, Haws® We believe when it comes to safety, you should not have to compromise. Leaders in the safety industry design innovative, yet functional, equipment to protect workers while on the job. From emergency response...

How To Effectively Control Combustible Dust

FR Technical

FR Fabric Education

General

08 Jun 2017

By Jason Reason CIH, CSP, CHMM Senior Vice President of Safety and Health Services, Lewellyn Technology, LLC with Scott Francis Midwest Regional Market Manager, Westex by Milliken The issue of combustible dust and its associated hazards (fire, deflagration, explosion) has always existed in several industries in one form or another....

Your Online FR Resource

General

03 Mar 2017

A vital part of FR safety is raising awareness and education. At Westex by Milliken, we pride ourselves on being more than just an FR fabric manufacturer. We are your FR resource when it comes to navigating the complex industry of arc rated and flame resistant fabrics and protection. We...

Safety 2016 Trade Show Recap

General

05 Jul 2016

We are excited to have wrapped up another successful American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSE) Safety show, this year in Atlanta! This trade show and exhibition brings safety professionals together to learn best practices, discuss industry updates, and make connections with suppliers and each other. Now that the show is...

Why Ongoing Safety Education is Critical

General

09 Jun 2016

In honor of National Safety Month, we’re taking a look at the importance of ongoing safety education and training. Safety excellence means going beyond recording a zero injury number to embedding safety into the culture of your workforce. After all, being safe is about employee buy-in and the employees themselves,...

June is National Safety Month

General

01 Jun 2016

“Our safety goal is zero injuries. We are committed to safety excellence in everything we do. Our basic belief is that all incidents can and will be prevented.” Charlie Young, Corporate Safety Manager at Milliken & Co. Safety is a core value at Milliken that drives our efforts to build...

We Are FR Educators

General

25 May 2016

Westex by Milliken is “all in” when it comes to FR education. Most companies in our industry are just suppliers; we want to be your partner in safety, and that involves bringing more to the table than a piece of fabric. We help you make good decisions about protective clothing...

Burn Injuries by the Numbers

Arc Flash Videos

General

18 May 2016

Burn injuries resulting from arc flash, flash fire or combustible dust hazards can be life threatening or worse, life-ending. Both the temperature and duration of the exposure directly impact injury severity. In honor of National Electrical Safety Month, this blog post takes a look at the impact of a burn to...

Enforcing & Complying with NFPA 70E

Arc Flash Videos

General

11 May 2016

The best way to enforce NFPA 70E is through company policy for your employees and customers. Companies should look at all aspects of NFPA 70E to determine what policies are needed and what policies they want to create and enforce. The purpose is to set forth procedures for the safe...

May is National Electrical Safety Month

Arc Flash Videos

General

02 May 2016

Each May the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) commemorates National Electrical Safety Month (NESM) to raise awareness and educate the public on critical electrical safety topics. EHS Today reported in 2015 that, “Workplace electrical incidents result in another nearly 300 deaths and more than 3,500 injuries every year. Although not...

Going Green for Over 100 Years: Help Celebrate Earth Day

General

22 Apr 2016

Earth Day is Friday, April 22nd, an annual event to celebrate environmental protection. Did you know that 70 years before the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established, Milliken & Company initiated voluntary environmental stewardship practices? In fact, today more than 99% of Milliken’s solid waste worldwide is reused, recycled...

Your Trusted Connection for FR Safety

Arc Flash Videos

General

06 Apr 2016

When it comes to arc-rated and flame resistant clothing, there’s a science behind peace of mind, a science to feeling good, and a science to coming home safe. When it comes to the science of being safe, of caring, we are all in. Westex by Milliken is proud to be...

New Arc Flash Testing Laboratory in Brazil

Arc Flash Videos

General

23 Mar 2016

Starting later this year, a new arc flash testing laboratory in Brazil will begin testing to ASTM and IEC standards for flame resistant fabrics, garments and rainwear, face shields and gloves. Petrobras, the largest multinational energy corporation in South America, has partnered with the Energy and Environment Institute at the...

I Thought it was Dead...

General

Arc Flash Videos

16 Mar 2016

Accidents are just that, they happen by chance and not on purpose. In fact, after an accident workers are often heard saying how safe a particular electrician “always was”… until the day he or she wasn’t. Accidents where workers think energized circuits are dead claim the lives of electricians every...

Milliken Named One of World’s Most Ethical Companies 2016

General

Press Releases

08 Mar 2016

For the tenth year in a row, Milliken & Company has been recognized by Ethisphere Magazine as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. Milliken has long understood that ethical behavior is not just the right thing to do but is a key to sustainable growth, forming the foundation of...

Who is Qualified?

General

02 Mar 2016

A qualified person is defined in various ways by different standards and depending on what industry you are in. In the electrical industry, for example, it’s important for both qualified and unqualified workers to understand and receive training for the equipment they are working on. In construction, and electrical construction...

An Update on Combustible Dust & FR Safety

General

19 Jan 2016

In recent years, the combustible dust hazard has been receiving increasing attention from both OSHA and NFPA. OSHA defines combustible dusts as fine particles that present an ignition hazard when suspended in air under certain conditions. The combustible dust hazard is a flash fire event or rapid combustion known as...

Get to Know Westex by Milliken

General

13 Jan 2016

The story behind our commitment: When it Comes to FR Safety, We Are All In Westex by Milliken has always provided much more than high-performance FR fabric. For decades, we’ve taken a big picture approach to FR safety. This article shows you what it means to be “all in,” with...

How to Keep Everyone Safe: Safety Management Systems

General

06 Jan 2016

Safety management systems are designed to be comprehensive and manage safety elements in the workplace. A safety system is a process that continuously operates to reduce hazards and prevent workplace incidents. Safety is a critical element in any business and it’s important that all employees buy-in to the safety program....

Why One Size of PPE Does Not Fit All

General

Arc Flash Videos

29 Dec 2015

Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as arc rated FR clothing, is a critically important part of every electrical safety program. It should be used as the last line of defense, meaning it helps protect when all other preventative measures have failed. In fact, the hierarchy of controls puts eliminating the...

Milliken & Company Acquires Springfield, LLC

General

23 Dec 2015

Now offering an even more complete line of Westex-branded FR solutions! In September, Milliken & Company announced the acquisition of Springfield LLC, a manufacturer of technical, performance and flame resistant (FR) fabrics for the safety apparel, fire service, military and occupational markets. This acquisition is the latest initiative in Milliken’s...

A First-Hand Perspective of Flash Fire Testing

General

02 Dec 2015

Flame resistant (FR) coveralls, shirts and pants afford workers a few extra seconds of escape time when faced with a flash fire and aim to dramatically reduce or eliminate body burn. FR garments are tested according to a variety of standards. For flash fire, ASTM F1930 (Standard Test Method for...

Milliken & Company Acquires Springfield LLC

Press Releases

05 Oct 2015

Acquisition broadens ability to protect industrial workers, first responders and military personnel worldwide with expanded product portfolio and technical capabilities SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Today, Milliken & Company, a global innovation company, announced its acquisition of Springfield LLC, a manufacturer of technical, performance and flame resistant (FR) fabrics for the safety...

How Long Do Flash Fires Last?

General

20 Aug 2015

The answer to this question has been debated along with other FR marketing issues; however, groundbreaking research has been conducted to reaffirm the behavior of flash fires. Research performed by the University of Alberta’s Protective Clothing and Equipment Research Facility (PCERF) has reaffirmed the industry’s benchmark flash fire standards from...

Making Sense of NFPA 2112

General

13 Aug 2015

You’ve been told you need NFPA 2112-compliant garments but do you understand what compliance actually means? NFPA 2112 is an industry standard on flame resistant garments for protection of industrial personnel against flash fire. NFPA 2112 provides minimum performance criteria and sets clear guidelines for testing. What’s vital to understand...

OSHA & Industry Changes that Impact FR Clothing Programs

General

07 Jul 2015

The challenge of keeping pace with keeping safe In today’s world, information overload makes it nearly impossible to digest all of the messages constantly being pushed at us. With a steady stream of news updates always in front of us, it can be difficult to pull out the most important...

Is Safety an Initiative or a Value at Your Organization?

General

11 Jun 2015

Safety is an initiative that every organization should prioritize, and eventually turn into a value. Being safe is about employee buy-in and the employees themselves – not just about the numbers. Much like with personal protective equipment (PPE) - where you have to get employees to see the value in...

When Proper Arc Flash Protection Performs as Designed

General

27 May 2015

Arc flash accidents are frequently noted when, unfortunately, something terrible goes wrong and an employee is injured. However, not all of these stories end badly due to proper use of arc flash protection. In his article for Flame Resistant Insights, Larry Hilgeman of The Hilgeman Group, Inc., shares a report from...

When Proper Arc Flash Protection Performs as Designed

Arc Flash Videos

General

27 May 2015

Arc flash accidents are frequently noted when, unfortunately, something terrible goes wrong and an employee is injured. However, not all of these stories end badly due to proper use of arc flash protection. In his article for Flame Resistant Insights, Larry Hilgeman of The Hilgeman Group, Inc., shares a report from...

Westex by Milliken and Cone Denim Join to Provide Flame Resistant Denim Fabrics to the Workwear Industry

Press Releases

20 Jan 2015

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Westex by Milliken and Cone Denim announced an exclusive partnership to provide innovative flame resistant denim apparel fabrics. Both leaders within their respective industries, Cone Denim and Westex by Milliken will merge fashion with protective, reliable industrial workwear fabrics. “Cone Denim has a strong reputation of quality...

Westex by Milliken and Cone Denim Join to Provide Flame Resistant Denim Fabrics to the Workwear Industry

20 Jan 2015

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Westex by Milliken and Cone Denim announced an exclusive partnership to provide innovative flame resistant denim apparel fabrics. Both leaders within their respective industries, Cone Denim and Westex by Milliken will merge fashion with protective, reliable industrial workwear fabrics. “Cone Denim has a strong reputation of quality...

Westex Makes $650,000 Commitment to NJATC

General

Press Releases

07 Apr 2014

Westex has entered into agreement with The National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for the Electrical Industry (NJATC) to create the Westex Personal Protective Equipment Academyprogram to train the next generation of union electrical workers. Over the next five years, Westex will donate $650,000 in cash, product and training support,...

Westex and the American Society of Safety Engineers Sign a 2-Year Extension

General

Press Releases

31 Mar 2014

Westex and the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) have signed a 2-Year extension to the existing Gold Sponsorship Agreement for 2014-2015. Over the next two years, Westex will provide a financial contribution to ASSE along with product and educational support to the ASSE membership. Westex’s Gold Sponsorship of ASSE...

INHERENT VS. TREATED: DOES IT REALLY MATTER?

FR Technical

FR Fabric Education

General

12 Feb 2014

Historically, the flame resistant properties of flame resistant fabrics could be separated into two categories: Inherent and treated. Once upon a time, this was a relevant distinction. It meant the difference between FR properties that were durable, and those that were not. However, these terms ceased to provide information to...

THE SAFETY IS IN THE FABRIC

FR Fabric Education

FR Technical

General

05 Feb 2014

The success of your flame resistant (FR) clothing program depends heavily on the fabric used to construct the garments. Both arc rating and flash fire “2112” testing are done by fabric brand and weight; the fabric brand is also the key factor in durability of FR properties, initial and long...

Introducing: Westex TrueComfort Knits

General

Press Releases

17 Oct 2013

Westex TrueComfortTM is a new advancement in flame resistant knit fabrics. The new TrueComfortTM fabrics are lightweight, soft and breathable, and offer the same guarantee of flame resistance for the life of the garment as Westex’s proven UltraSoft®, UltraSoft AC® and Indura® brands. In addition, TrueComfortTM provides excellent arc flash protection...

2013 SAFETY MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Press Releases

27 Sep 2013

View who The Institute for Safety and Health Management selected for its 2013 Safety Management Professional of the Year. 2013 Safety Management Professional of the Year

Comfort, heat stress and garment selection

FR Technical

General

23 Sep 2013

There are many questions and even more misunderstandings around comfort and heat stress for people specifying or wearing arc rated and flame resistant protective apparel; thus, it is important to understand a few basics on the interrelationship, if any, to garment or fabric type and weight. Discomfort and heat stress...

ARTICLE: Flash Fire — Duration and Heat Flux

Press Releases

10 May 2013

Over the past two decades, there has been reasonable debate (and less reasonable marketing) on the duration and energy of flash fires. Westex’s Technical Director Scott Margolin explores the complexities of this hazard and the testing methods commonly used to evaluate FR clothing. Read the article now.

New White Paper Explains the Terms "Inherent" and "Treated" and Why They Don't Matter

Press Releases

03 May 2013

Westex has published a new white paper designed to clarify the difference between “inherent” and “treated” flame resistant fabrics. The paper explains: The origins of these terms How they became part of the industry lexicon –– in spite of having no scientific basis Why these categories aren’t useful for evaluating...

Article: Predicting Comfort Of Flame Resistant Clothing

Press Releases

31 Jul 2012

Written by Westex International Technical Director Scott Margolin, this must-read article addresses the importance of fabric wear tests, and explores comfort factors such as breathability and weight. Read the full article on the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) site.

See How Our UltraSoft® Brand Fabric Stacks Up to the Competition

Press Releases

31 May 2011

Westex is the only company in the industry with the technology and expertise to consistently produce FR fabrics with the qualities that matter: Guaranteed flame resistance for the life of the garment Double-shrunk technology Superior softness That’s not a claim — it’s a fact. See for yourself by viewing the...