If you work in an industry where the risk of flash fires or explosions is higher than average, you must take the proper precautions to keep yourself and your coworkers safe. OSHA mandates that employees work in a safe working environment, but that requires some effort and knowledge on your part.
Some jobs have more safety risks than others, which is why you need to know the differences between them. Here is a small sample of industries that require fire-resistant clothing.
Oil and Gas
As you probably know, oil and gas are extremely flammable, meaning that workers in those respective industries must always wear fire-resistant clothing. One of the biggest safety risks that people outside of the industry are unaware of is that oil and industry workers have a higher risk of vehicle collision due to exhaustion on the part of the driver.
Since the machines that these workers use are strong and loud, it can be difficult to avoid a crash with all of the commotion happening around them. If a collision were to occur, the flames could ignite the materials that the workers extract, which could lead to an explosion. In addition to the risk of fires, oil and gas workers must wear safe clothes to reduce their exposure to toxic chemicals and fumes.
Paper and Pulp
Manufacturers create paper and pulp from wood, a classic fire-starting material since the dawn of civilization. In addition, workers in the pulp and paper industry have a greater risk of exposure to ethanol, sodium hydroxide, and sulfuric acid, all of which can lead to respiratory disease.
Just like workers in the oil and gas industry, pulp and paper industry workers use heavy machinery that can start a fire when left unattended. The risk of a flash fire, electrocution, and scalding are always present on the jobsite for these workers.
Electric Power
One of the most hazardous industries to work in is the electrical power industry. Not only do electricians come into contact with materials such as mold, asbestos, and lead on a daily basis, but their working environment also reaches extreme temperatures.
This is even more dangerous when you consider the fact that electricians often work longer hours than most jobs. Since electricians have to work in tight spaces, they would need to prepare for contact with the flames if a fire were to happen. Therefore, wearing fire-resistant outerwear is a must if you want to work in this industry.
Overall, many dangerous occupations are essential for the function of our society. Now that you know a few of the industries that require fire-resistant clothing, you can have a greater appreciation for the workers who make modern life possible.