When it comes to protective workwear, especially in industries where fire, electrical hazards, or explosions are a constant risk, not all jackets are created equal. Workers and safety managers often come across two terms that sound similar but are not the same: FR (Flame-Resistant) jackets and Arc-Rated (AR) jackets.
At first glance, both categories seem to protect against fire, but the distinction is crucial. Using the wrong protective clothing in a high-risk environment can lead to serious injury or even fatalities. Unfortunately, the terms “FR” and “Arc-Rated” are often used interchangeably, adding to the confusion.