The purpose of this study was to address the issue as to whether acidic gaseous combustion products represent a potential dermal hazard to individuals exposed to a flash fire event.
Three commercial FR textiles were tested. The tests were performed in accordance with ASTM F1930 and ISO 13506: Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Flame Resistant Clothing for Protection against Fire Simulations Using an Instrumented Manikin.
The results showed that the acid gases emitted into perspiration and blood plasma showed an increase in acidity, but it was not enough to cause more skin irritation or cause more skin cells to die in open third degree burns.
does research and testing of PPE exposed to electrical arcs and is an arc flash expert. Hugh is a Sr. Consultant at ArcWear and Sr. Partner at e-Hazard. Read more about Hugh.