Fit for purpose static dissipative FR fabrics
January 2nd 2008

Electrostatic discharges are an occupational hazard for industrial workers but the GORE-TEX Heat & Flame garments with Gore Antistatic Technology provides protection from any adverse effects, allowing them to operate safely around flammable or explosive materials.

The human body only registers electrostatic charges at around 3,000 volts. But if an employee is working close to such materials, particularly air-gas compounds, sparks resulting from these charges can cause a gas vapour explosion which poses serious risks to people and equipment.

Testing by Gore has shown that some static dissipative garments only meet the minimum Flame Retardant requirements of certain EN norms. But the GORE-TEX Heat & Flame garments with Gore Antistatic Technology has a face fabric of modacrylic/cotton which complies with the most exacting demands of EN 533.

It fulfils the EN 531 criteria for industrial workers exposed to heat and flame and also EN 470-1 for the protection of welders. In addition, this laminate is non-melting and available in EN 471 Fluo Yellow.

To protect the static dissipative component of the laminate, conductive carbon particles distributed with the membrane are electrically connected and form a network 10,000 times denser than conventional conductive mesh structures.

The static dissipative function of the GORE-TEX membrane in no way impairs its ability to make a fabric100% waterproof and highly breathable, so workers stay comfortable as well as protected.

Selecting the right protective garments can be critical in preventing injury to personnel or damage to plant and equipment, which is why gas companies in Germany, Austria and Ireland have already adopted GORE-TEX Heat & Flame garments with Gore Antistatic Technology garments.

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