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How Westex Helped Lummus Find More Comfortable, High-Performing FR Workwear: A Step-by-Step Guide

Project Details

• Lummus Technology
• Pasadena, TX
• 110 employees in FR apparel
• Daily Wear program provided by an industrial launderer

Step 1: Identifying the Problem

Lummus Technology faced a significant challenge—their long-used Flame Resistant gear was so uncomfortable that it posed a health risk. With the blistering Texas heat reaching 100°F on average for 102 days a year, it was evident they needed FR clothing that was both lightweight and breathable. This wasn’t only about comfort; it was crucial for preventing health incidents on-site.

Step 2: Seeking Solutions

Recognizing the urgent need for more comfortable and safer FR apparel, Lummus Technology began searching for alternatives. They engaged in conversations with their garment provider, specifically requesting shirts, pants, and coveralls made from highly breathable and moisture-wicking materials.

**The goal was clear: To find FR clothing that maintained high standards of hazard protection and compliance while providing exceptional comfort. **

Their team emphasized the need for garments that were easy to move in, dried quickly when they came indoors or while on breaks, and didn’t feel unnecessarily heavy. This led them to discover Westex’s DH Air , known for being one of the market’s lightest and softest fabrics. To ensure it met their needs, Lummus decided to conduct a three-week wear trial with DH Air apparel.

Step 3: Testing DH Air

Lummus opted for a three-week wear trial to put DH Air to the test. The team wore the new FR apparel daily to evaluate its performance. They paid close attention to how the fabric handled the intense heat, its breathability, and overall comfort. After three weeks, they unanimously decided to make the switch to DH Air, noting the following insights as reasons why:

• Its “favorite t-shirt” feel instead of the “itchy and scratchy” feel of their previous FR shirts.
• Its ability to dry quickly and feel like a new shirt after taking a break.
• Its compliance with all necessary standards.
• Its ability to withstand repeated wash cycles without losing performance.

Step 4: Making the Switch

With the wear trial confirming the superior comfort and performance of DH Air, Lummus Technology decided to completely transition. Employees were thrilled with the new uniforms, which met all safety standards and significantly improved their comfort and well-being.

The transition to DH Air has been a game-changer for Lummus. The team no longer dreads wearing their FR gear, and the risk of heat-related health incidents has been greatly reduced.

Allan Williams, the Senior Safety and Health Advisor, noted that the positive reception from the employees was a clear indicator that they had made the right choice. The success of this switch has set a new standard for FR apparel at Lummus, ensuring that safety and comfort are prioritized.

Want your team to try out Westex DH Air garments? Contact us at [email protected] to set up a wear trial. For more info on Westex and our high-performance FR/AR fabrics, check out westex.com .