ANTI-STATIC VS FR CLOTHING: THE CRITICAL DIFFERENCE EVERY SAFETY MANAGER MUST KNOW

Industrial worksites—especially oil & gas, chemical plants, utilities, and manufacturing—require more than just “protective clothing.” Two of the most essential categories are anti-static clothing and flame-resistant (FR) clothing.

Although often mentioned together, they serve completely different safety functions. Choosing the wrong one can expose workers to serious risks.

This quick guide explains the difference and helps you choose the right PPE for your workplace.

1. WHAT IS ANTI-STATIC CLOTHING?

Anti-static garments are designed to prevent electrostatic charge buildup on the body, reducing the risk of sparks that could ignite flammable gases or dust.

• Prevents electrostatic discharge (ESD)
  

• Essential in oil & gas, chemical processing, refineries, explosive zones (ATEX)
  

• Standard reference: EN 1149-5

Core function: Avoid ignition from static electricity.

2. WHAT IS FLAME-RESISTANT (FR) CLOTHING?

Flame-resistant clothing is engineered to self-extinguish, resist ignition, and reduce burn injury when exposed to heat, flame, or arc flash.

• Protects against thermal hazards
  

• Required for electrical work, arc flash tasks, welding, utilities, and heavy industry
  

• Standards include NFPA 70E, ASTM F1506, EN ISO 11612, IEC 61482-2

Core function: Protect the wearer from heat, flames, and arc flash energy.

3. KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ANTI-STATIC & FR WORKWEAR

Important:
Anti-static ≠ FR
FR ≠ Anti-static
They solve different hazards and must be selected based on real workplace risks.

4. DO WORKERS NEED BOTH?

In many high-risk environments—such as oil & gas, petrochemical, refineries, and utilities—the answer is YES.

This is why many garments are designed as:

• FR + Anti-Static (Dual Protection)

Such fabrics offer:

• Spark prevention

• Fire resistance

• Arc flash performance

• Compliance with international PPE standards

DOMEX Safety specializes in dual-protection garments engineered for complex hazard workplaces.

5. DOMEX SAFETY SOLUTIONS

We provide FR, IFR, and anti-static PPE compliant with:

• EN 1149-5

• EN ISO 11612

• NFPA 70E / ASTM F1506

• IEC 61482-2

Our product range includes:

• Arc flash coveralls & jackets
  

• FR/IFR shirts & pants
  

• Anti-static & multi-standard workwear
  

• Oil & gas dual-hazard protection garments

Designed for global industrial compliance and trusted by PetroChina, Sinopec, ADNOC, KOC, BP, and more.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct PPE depends on understanding your specific hazards:

• Static risk? → Anti-static clothing

• Heat/arc flash/flame risk? → FR clothing

• Oil & gas or chemical sites? → Use both for full protection

Proper PPE selection ensures compliance, reduces risk, and protects your workforce.