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Arc Flash Personal
Protective Clothing
(Pty) Ltd
Now available in Southern Africa. Comfortable arc flash
resistance daily wear for people working in high-risk areas.
Arc Flash Secondary PPE Catalogue 2013 Rev 04.docx
1
2
Why is arc flash a concern?
An electrical arc flash produces one of the highest
temperatures on earth: over 20,000 degrees Celsius.
The intense heat from an arc flash causes the sudden
expansion of air, which results in a pressure blast. In
addition it vaporizes all known material which can
rapidly expand.
many years and their Modified Weave
makes the
softest HRC 2 shirt on the market today. The Benchmark
product is tested in a third-party laboratory for durability
and still passes the stringent industry requirements after
200 washes. This is double the most stringent industry
testing requirements for flame resistant garments.
Match Your PPE to the Threat
PRIMARY PPE is your main protection from the threat
i.e. electrical arc flash suit. Primary PPE is commonly
worn by people who are intentionally entering into a
high-risk situation.
SECONDARY PPE is a last line of defense. By definition it
is “secondary” because, like a hardhat or steel toe
boots, you wear it continuously.
Flame resistant
clothings’ purpose is to provide escape time and/or
minimize the extent of an injury sustained during an
incident. Please remember it’s not just a good idea, it’s
a requirement by OHSA.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Categories of PPE as described in NFPA 70E (Standard
for Electrical Safety Requirements for Employee
Workplaces) are:
Hazard
Risk
Category
Cal/cm2
0
1.2
HRC1
5
HRC2
8
HRC3
25
Clothing
Untreated Cotton
Flame Retardant (FR)
shirt and FR pants
Cotton underwear FR
shirt, FR Pants & FR
Coveralls
Cotton underwear FR
HRC4
40
Shirt, FR pants and FR
Coveralls
Cotton underwear FR
shirt, FR pants and
double layer switching
coat and pants.
Cal/cm2 are the units of incident energy that PPE can
withstand.
Our Product
Message from Benchmark:
“Benchmark is proud to be different than other flame
resistant apparel manufacturers. The backbone of our
product line is a unique chemistry and process which
allows us to manufacture flame resistant fabric from
natural materials as well as Modacrylic and Aramid
fibers. The end result is FR clothing that is skin safe,
chemically stable and has flame resistant properties
that will remain effective for the life of a garment,
regardless of the number of wash and wear cycles.
Our specialty is making FR clothing that you actually
want to wear. Wearing flame resistant PPE is a job
requirement for men and women across the country in
numerous industries. Most people who wear FR apparel
spend more time in their FR garments than any other
clothing they own. Our approach to flame resistant
protective apparel is simple…be innovative, don’t be
afraid to be different and never compromise on safety
or comfort. We are the FR you want to wear.”
Who is Arc Flash PPC?
Arc Flash PPC was founded by Warren McLeod, an
electrical Engineer, who has twenty years experience in
both heavy current and mining industries.
Following a recent lecture on the hazards and
precautions of arc flashes Warren McLeod attempted
to source day to day arc flash protective clothing. He
was unable to locate what he was looking for in South
Africa.
Warren then sourced Benchmark Clothing in the US and
started Arc Flash PPC to supply this essential product
into the South African market.
Our goal is not only to supply this product to people at
risk, but also to educate the industry of the risks involved
and the precautions that can be taken.
Should you wish to find out more about arc flash risks
and our products, or want to place an order please
contact us on:
Our range is imported from Benchmark in California.
info@arcflashppc.com
Our focus is to supply a comfortable range of arc flash
resistance daily wear for people working in high risk
areas. Benchmark’s range has been developed over
+27 82 419 6910
Don’t let an arc flash turn you off!!
PRODUCTS
Really Nice Shirt (HRC2) 9.5 cal/cm2
Overview
The Really Nice Shirt is made from 192 gram Benchmark FR Modified Weave material
and has taken Benchmark two years to develop. The result is a one of the softest FR
fabrics available that is also lightweight with high thermal performance value (9.5
cal/cm2). The combination of cable-like ring spun yarns and a proprietary modified
weave makes it the softest HRC2 shirt on the market today. A key feature of the
Modified Weave is that it allows body heat and vapor to easily escape through
passages created by floating yarns. All shirt details are tailor constructed to give the
Really Nice Shirt its "really nice" appearance. It is designed for electrical and utility
workers who need a single layer shirt, with a greater than 8 cal rating.
During an incident the yarns compact and protect the wearer from arc flash and flash
fire. Flame resistant properties do not diminish with washing when proper care
instructions are followed.
Features
•
Soft Breathable Fabric
•
Double Top Stitch Construction
•
Comfortable Generous Fit
•
Front Pocket Pen Holder
•
Professional Appearance
•
Clean, Straight Hem
•
Safe to Wear against the Skin
•
Tailored Construction
•
Flame Resistant for Life!
•
Melamine High Temperature
•
Large Arm Openings
Closures
Large Arm Ope
Custom Options
Colours:
Beige and Grey
Patches: This is the most effective way to brand your workers. Patches are safer than
direct embroidery because it punctures the flame resistant membrane as much as 95%
less than direct embroidery.
Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow striping offers
both daytime and nighttime visibility and is safe for both home and light industrial
laundering.
Screen Print: Full color, high resolution logo’s can be applied using screen prints.
Screen printed logo’s can be applied to the back of a garment and/or above the
front pockets. Screen prints will remain vibrant if home laundered or dry cleaned. It is
not advisable that screen printed garments are industrial laundered.
Sizes
M
38-42
L
42-46
XL
46-50
2XL
50-54
3XL
54-58
4XL
58-62
5XL
62-66
Henley Shirt (HRC2) – Unisex 9 cal/cm2 – Unisex
Overview
Since being released in January of 2008, the Henley Shirt has become one of
Benchmarks best selling products. The raglan sleeve construction gives this shirt an
athletic look and maximizes comfort by removing conventional seaming from around
the arms and underarms. The extra wide rib collar sits close to the neck for a classic fit
and looks more professional than typical long sleeve undershirts. The Benchmark FR
jersey knit ring spun fabric makes this shirt ideal for year round use and great for
layering under other FR garments.
Features
•
Excellent for Warm Weather
•
Underarm Gussets
•
Can be Worn Directly Against the
Skin
•
Front Pocket
•
•
Ideal for Layering
Melamine High Temperature
Closures
•
Flame Resistant for Life
•
Durable Ring Spun Jersey Knit
•
Raglan Sport Sleeve
•
Unisex
Large Arm Ope
Colour: Beige
Custom Options
Patches: This is the most effective way to brand your workers. Patches are safer than direct embroidery because it
punctures the flame resistant membrane as much as 95% less than direct embroidery.
Screen Print: Full color, high resolution logo’s can be applied using screen prints. Screen printed logo’s can be applied to
the back of a garment and/or above the front pockets. Screen prints will remain vibrant if home laundered or dry
cleaned. It is not advisable that screen printed garments are industrial laundered.
Reflective Heat Transfers & Lettering: Flame Resistant reflective heat transfers can be applied to almost all benchmark
styles. Logos can be custom die cut to your specific design and adhered to the back of your garment. Using stock letters
is another easy way to customize a garment. Stock letters are approximately eight and ten cm in height. Reflective heat
transfers remain vibrant when home laundered and are not recommended for industrial laundering.
Sizes
S
34-38
M
38-42
L
42-46
XL
46-50
2XL
50-54
3XL
54-58
4XL
58-62
5XL
62-66
American Denim (HRC2) 14 cal/cm2
Overview
Benchmark’s flame resistant American Denim Jeans are just like your favorite pair of
work jeans, but with more utility. Our double reinforced belt loops are sewn into the
waistband and then bar tacked, which means they can’t pull out. Our pants are also
pre-washed and ready to wear so there is no break-in required.
Features
•
Made in the USA
•
No Break-in Required
•
Classic Denim Styling
•
Pre-Shrunk
•
Reinforced Belt Loops
•
Ring Spun Yarn
•
Loose Fit
•
Safe to Wear Against Skin
•
Inherently FR
•
Flame Resistant for Life
•
Classic 5 Pocket Construction
Large Arm Open
Colour: Denim
Custom Options
Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow striping offers both daytime and
nighttime visibility and is safe for both home and light industrial laundering.
Sizes
30
76
32
80
34
88
36
92
38
96
40
100
42
104
44
108
46
112
48
116
Classic Twill (HRC2) 13 cal/cm2
Overview
The Classic Twill pants are constructed like denim jeans, but in Benchmark’s durable
Classic Twill fabric. Our twill is constructed differently from typical twills and is woven so
that interlacing yarns can slide under each other. This gives the added benefit of a
smooth surface and an exceptionally soft feel. A high thread count adds strength to
the Classic Twill, yet it remains flexible and comfortable to wear because of the fabric's
special construction. Our pants are also pre-washed and require no break-in.
Features
•
Smooth Fabric Construction
•
Nine Pockets
•
No Break-in Required
•
Extra Deep Tool Pockets
•
Pre-Shrunk
•
•
Ring Spun Yarn
Reinforced Belt Loops Sewn
into Waist
•
Safe to Wear Against Skin
•
Heavy Duty Construction
•
Flame Resistant for Life
•
•
Loose Fit
Melamine, High Temperature
Closures
Large Arm Ope
Colour: Denim
Custom Options
Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow striping offers both daytime and nighttime
visibility and is safe for both home and light industrial laundering.
Reflective Heat Transfers & Lettering: Flame Resistant reflective heat transfers can be applied to almost all benchmark
styles. Logos can be custom die cut to your specific design and adhered to the back of your garment. Using stock letters
is another easy way to customize a garment. Stock letters are three and four inches in height. Reflective heat transfers
remain vibrant when home laundered and are not recommended for industrial laundering.
Sizes
30
76
32
80
34
88
36
92
38
96
40
100
42
104
44
108
46
112
48
116
Women’s Long Sleeve Shirt (HRC1) 6 cal/cm2
Overview
This shirt is designed so that women can look professional and work comfortably. This is
not a men's shirt just made smaller; it has been designed specifically for the female
body. The body of the shirt has a slight contour which compliments the waist line, but
also allows for movement. The curved bottom hem compliments the body and ensures
a professional appearance at all times, and is long enough to be comfortably tucked
into trousers.
Features
•
Tailored fit for women
•
Front Pocket Pencil Holder
•
Soft, comfortable material
•
•
Lightweight and Breathable
Tailored Cuffs with two button
closure
•
Durable, Ring Spun Twill
•
Melamine, High Temperature
Closures
•
Safe to Wear Against Skin
•
•
Flame Resistant for Life
Double Top Stitch Construction
Large Arm Ope
Curved Bottom Hem
•
Colour: Beige
Custom Options
Patches: This is the most effective way to brand your workers. Patches are safer than direct embroidery because it
punctures the flame resistant membrane as much as 95% less than direct embroidery.
Screen Print: Full color, high resolution logo’s can be applied using screen prints. Screen printed logo’s can be applied to
the back of a garment and/or above the front pockets. Screen prints will remain vibrant if home laundered or dry
cleaned. It is not advisable that screen printed garments are industrial laundered.
Reflective Heat Transfers & Lettering: Flame Resistant reflective heat transfers can be applied to almost all benchmark
styles. Logos can be custom die cut to your specific design and adhered to the back of your garment. Using stock letters
is another easy way to customize a garment. Stock letters are three and four inches in height. Reflective heat transfers
remain vibrant when home laundered and are not recommended for industrial laundering.
Sizes
S
34-38
M
38-42
L
42-46
XL
46-50
2XL
50-54
3XL
54-58
4XL
58-62
5XL
62-66
Women’s Denim Jeans (HRC2) 13 cal/cm2
Overview
Our Women's Denim Jeans are designed specifically to fit a woman's body with a semilow rise waist and extra ease built into the fit to ensure comfort while working. We also
added a slight boot cut to create a flattering contour on the body.
Features
•
Smooth Fabric Construction
•
Nine Pockets
•
No Break-in Required
•
Extra Deep Tool Pockets
•
Pre-Shrunk
•
•
Ring Spun Yarn
Reinforced Belt Loops Sewn
into Waist
•
Safe to Wear Against Skin
•
Heavy Duty Construction
•
Flame Resistant for Life
•
•
Loose Fit & Boot Cut
Melamine, High Temperature
Closures
Large Arm Ope
Colour: Denim
Custom Options
Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow striping offers
both daytime and nighttime visibility and is safe for both home and light industrial
laundering.
Reflective Heat Transfers & Lettering: Flame Resistant reflective heat transfers can be
applied to almost all benchmark styles. Logos can be custom die cut to your specific
design and adhered to the back of your garment. Using stock letters is another easy
way to customize a garment. Stock letters are three and four inches in height.
Reflective heat transfers remain vibrant when home laundered and are not
recommended for industrial laundering.
Sizes
28
4
30
6
32
8
34
10
36
12
38
14
40
16
42
18
Hooded Sweatshirt (HRC2) 16 cal/ cm2 - Unisex
Overview
The Hooded Sweatshirt is an ideal outer layer garment, especially if you work indoors
and outdoors throughout the day. It is constructed like your favorite ‘hoodie’ with a
front zipper closure and three-piece drawstring hood that has generous coverage. The
hood can be comfortably worn either under or over a hard hat. As practical and
comfortable as our hooded sweatshirt is, it also offers 16 cals of protection. Benchmark
has re-engineered the fleece fabric to have a minimal amount of shrinkage (less than
3%), excellent colourfastness and increased tensile strength. The weight was reduced
to feel more like a “store bought” garment. Industrial laundering is not recommended
for this product.
Features
•
Three Piece Lined Hood
•
Ideal for Cold Weather
•
Generous Comfortable Fit
•
Ideal for Layering
•
Dielectric Coil Zip Closure
•
Excellent Thermal Protection
•
Two Front Pockets/Hand Warmers
•
Controlled Shrinkage
•
Large Arm Openings
•
Flame Resistant for Life
•
Rib Cuffs and Waist
•
Unisex
Colour: Navy
Custom Options
Patches: This is the most effective way to brand your workers. Patches are safer than direct embroidery because it
punctures the flame resistant membrane as much as 95% less than direct embroidery.
Screen Print: Full color, high-resolution logo’s can be applied using screen prints. Screen-printed logo’s can be applied to
the back of a garment and/or above the front pockets. Screen prints will remain vibrant if home laundered or dry
cleaned. It is not advisable that screen-printed garments are industrial laundered.
Reflective Heat Transfers & Lettering: Flame Resistant reflective heat transfers can be applied to almost all benchmark
styles. Logos can be custom die cut to your specific design and adhered to the back of your garment. Using stock letters
is another easy way to customize a garment. Stock letters are approximately eight and ten cm in height. Reflective heat
transfers remain vibrant when home laundered and are not recommended for industrial laundering.
Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow striping offers both daytime and nighttime
visibility and is safe for both home and light industrial laundering.
Sizes
S
34-38
M
38-42
L
42-46
XL
46-50
2XL
50-54
3XL
54-58
4XL
58-62
5XL
62-66
Bomber Jacket (HRC3) 30 cal/ cm2 Unisex
Overview
The Bomber Jacket is our year-round jacket, ideal for cold (above freezing) to
moderate climates. The outer shell is made from Benchmark’s durable satin weave twill
and has a light weight Benchmark twill lining. We constructed the Bomber Jacket with
two back gussets to allow for a full range of motion, and the overall fit is generous
enough for layering garments. The Bomber Jacket also has a lot of subtle built in utility
including two concealed front pockets, a pen pocket on the left arm and an inner
security pocket.
Features
•
Snag Resistant Outer Shell
•
Storm Front Closure
•
Two Hidden Front Pockets
•
Excellent Thermal Protection
•
Velcro Wrist Closures
•
•
Pen Pocket on Left Arm
For Use Above Freezing
Temperatures
•
Inside Security Pocket
•
Helps Regulate Body Temperature
•
Back Gussets
•
Ideal for Layering
•
Large Arm Openings
•
Flame Resistant for Life
•
Colour: Navy
Custom Options
Patches: This is the most effective way to brand your workers. Patches are safer than direct embroidery because it
punctures the flame resistant membrane as much as 95% less than direct embroidery.
Screen Print: Full color, high resolution logo’s can be applied using screen prints. Screen printed logo’s can be applied to
the back of a garment and/or above the front pockets. Screen prints will remain vibrant if home laundered or dry
cleaned. It is not advisable that screen printed garments are industrial laundered.
Reflective Heat Transfers & Lettering: Flame Resistant reflective heat transfers can be applied to almost all benchmark
styles. Logos can be custom die cut to your specific design and adhered to the back of your garment. Using stock letters
is another easy way to customize a garment. Stock letters are three and four inches in height. Reflective heat transfers
remain vibrant when home laundered and are not recommended for industrial laundering.
Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow striping offers both daytime and nighttime
visibility and is safe for both home and light industrial laundering.
Sizes
S
34-38
M
38-42
L
42-46
XL
46-50
2XL
50-54
3XL
54-58
4XL
58-62
5XL
62-66
Insulated Parka (HRC3) 39 cal/cm2
PLEASE NOTE: All Insulated Items are only available from September to February.
Ensure you order early for winter!!
Overview
We took the standard and made it high performance. This parka style jacket is
constructed of a break through flame resistant fabric system which uses pre-oxidized
meta-aramid insulation, soil release coatings, wind proof and water proof layers with
Benchmark FR scrims. The fabric system uses technology that allows moisture vapor to
escape even during zero degree weather. The feel of the jacket is soft and flexible and
all seams are taped and sealed protecting the wearer from cold, wind and fire.
Features
•
Two Zipper Chest Pockets
•
Inside Security Pocket
•
Lined Glove Pockets
•
Compatible/Removable Hood
•
Radio/Pen Pockets
•
Zero Degree
•
Wind Guard Waist
•
Wind and Water Proof
•
Storm Front Closure
•
Taped Seams
•
Back Gussets
•
Flame Resistant Insulation
•
Storm Cuffs & Wrist Closures
•
Ideal for Layering
Insulated Hood (Optional Extra)
The Insulated, Wind Proof Hood is constructed of a break through flame
resistant fabric system which uses pre-oxidized meta-aramid insulation,
soil release coatings, wind proof and water proof layers with Benchmark
FR scrims. The fabric system uses technology that allows moisture vapor
to escape even during zero degree weather. This item is compatible
with the Insulated Parka.
Colour: Navy
Custom Options
Patches: This is the most effective way to brand your workers. Patches are safer than direct embroidery because it
punctures the flame resistant membrane as much as 95% less than direct embroidery.
Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow striping offers both daytime and nighttime
visibility and is safe for both home and light industrial laundering.
Sizes
S
34-38
M
38-42
L
42-46
XL
46-50
2XL
50-54
3XL
54-58
4XL
58-62
5XL
62-66
Standard Coverall (HRC2) 13 cal/cm2
Overview
The Standard Coverall was developed primarily for arc-flash protection. It is a great
solution for HRC 2, single garment compliance.
Features
•
Adjustable Leg Inseam
•
Snag Resistant Fabric
•
Quick Release Closure
•
Excellent Thermal Protection
•
Non-sparking Zipper
•
Generous Fit
•
Elastic Waist
•
Designed for Movement
•
Pass-Thrus
•
Safe to Wear Against Skin
•
Back Gussets
•
Flame Resistant for Life
•
Seven Pockets
Large Arm Ope
Custom Options
Patches: This is the most effective way to brand your workers. Patches are safer than
direct embroidery because it punctures the flame resistant membrane as much as 95%
less than direct embroidery.
Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow striping offers
both daytime and nighttime visibility and is safe for both home and light industrial
laundering.
Reflective Heat Transfers & Lettering: Flame Resistant reflective heat transfers can be
applied to almost all benchmark styles. Logos can be custom die cut to your specific
Colours:
Navy and Royal
design and adhered to the back of your garment. Using stock letters is another easy
way to customize a garment. Stock letters are three and four inches in height.
Reflective heat transfers remain vibrant when home laundered and are not
recommended for industrial laundering.
Screen Print: Full color, high-resolution logo’s can be applied using screen prints.
Screen-printed logo’s can be applied to the back of a garment and/or above the
front pockets. Screen prints will remain vibrant if home laundered or dry cleaned. It is
not advisable that screen-printed garments are industrial laundered.
Leg Zippers: Leg zippers can be added to the bottom leg opening on all coverall
styles. We use 30cm flame resistant molded plastic or non-sparking brass zippers.
Sizes
S
34-38
M
38-42
L
42-46
XL
46-50
2XL
50-54
3XL
54-58
4XL
58-62
5XL
62-66
Insulated Coverall (HRC3) 39 cal/cm2
PLEASE NOTE: All Insulated Items are only available from September to February.
Ensure you order early for winter!!
Overview
The Insulated Coverall is constructed of a break through flame resistant fabric system
which uses pre-oxidized meta-aramid insulation, soil release coatings, wind proof and
water proof layers with Benchmark FR scrims. The fabric system uses technology that
allows moisture vapor to escape even during zero degree weather. All seams are
taped and sealed protecting the wearer from cold, wind and fire.
Features
•
Light Weight & Breathable
•
Reduces Heat Exhaustion
•
Extreme Weather
•
Safe to Wear Against Skin
•
Leg Zippers and Double Knees
•
Generous Fit
•
Six Pockets and Pass Thrus
•
Designed for Movement
•
Velcro and Zip Leg Openers
•
Flame Resistant for Life
Large Arm Op
Colours:
Navy
Custom Options
Patches: This is the most effective way to brand your workers. Patches are safer than
direct embroidery because it punctures the flame resistant membrane as much as 95%
less than direct embroidery.
Limited Reflective Striping (Silver or Yellow/Silver/Yellow): Our yellow/silver/yellow
striping offers both daytime and nighttime visibility and is safe for both home and light
industrial laundering.
Sizes
M
38-42
L
42-46
XL
46-50
2XL
50-54
3XL
54-58
4XL
58-62
5XL
62-66
1
2
Add-On Options
Screen Print
Patches
This is the most cost effective way to brand your
workers. We feel patches are safer than direct
embroidery because it punctures the flame resistant
membrane as much as 95% less than direct embroidery.
We have the ability to create company patches and
name patches using either a sublimation or embroidery
patch process.
Sublimation Patch
Full color, high resolution logo’s
can be applied to almost any
Benchmark garment using screen
prints. Screen printed logo’s can
be applied to the back of a
garment and/or above the front
pockets. Screen prints will remain
vibrant if home laundered or dry
cleaned. It is not advisable that screen printed garments
are industrial laundered. Minimums will apply
requirement. Set-up fees will apply.
The sublimation
process allows us to
Direct Embroidery Name
transfer virtually any
unique color, color
gradient or complex
logo onto the patch backing through a heat process.
This option is highly recommended for complex logos
Choose a thread color and we
can quickly and affordably add
your name to almost any
Benchmark style. Standard fonts
include Block or Script writing. No
minimum requirements. Digitising
and small quantity runs. No minimum requirements.
•
Logo
Fees will apply.
Embroidered Patches
Choose from a wide range of
thread colors and colored
backgrounds to make virtually
•
Name
•
Name & Title
any multi-color logo. Create
custom patches with unique
shapes or special size
requirements. Minimums will
apply. Digitizing fees will apply.
•
Name
•
Name & Title
•
Logo
fees will apply.
Choose a thread
color and
background color
and we can quickly
and affordably add
your name to
almost any Benchmark style. Standard fonts include
Block or Script writing on a standard 8.9cm x 3.8cm
rectangular patch. No minimum requirements.
Name
•
Name and Title
Choose from a wide range of
thread colors to make virtually any
multi-color logo. Embroidered logos
look professional and will remain
vibrant for the life of the garment.
No minimum requirement. Digitizing
Embroidered Name Patch
•
Direct Embroidered Logos
Reflective Heat Transfers & Lettering
Custom Heat Transfers
Reflective heat transfers can be
applied to almost any
Benchmark style. Logos can be
custom die cut to your specific
design and adhered to the
back of your garment. Using
stock letters is another easy way
to customize a garment. Stock letters are approximately
eight and ten centimeters in height. Reflective heat
transfers remain vibrant when home laundered and are
not recommended for industrial laundering. No minimum
requirements. Set-up fees will apply.
1
2
Reflective Striping
Yellow/Silver/Yellow (5cm)
Silver (5cm)
Available on:
•
Full Front
•
Cuffs
•
Back “X”
•
Biceps
•
•
Knees
Standard (Shoulders, Biceps & Lower
Leg)
•
Lower Legs
•
Class II (Full Front, Waist, Biceps &
Lower Leg)
•
Shoulders
•
Horizontal Back
Striping prices are doubled for insulated garments.
Fitting Guide
What Size T-Shirt Fits You?
In most cases the t-shirt size you are wearing will directly correspond to the size Benchmark coverall, shirt or outerwear you
choose. Please contact us directly if you need assistance in determining your size.
How to measure your body
Height
Standing straight against a wall (without footwear) mark the wall at the top of your head.
Measure from that point down to the floor.
Chest
From a standing position, measure the circumference of your upper body at the fullest part of your chest, typically just
under the arm pit.
Sleeve
Bend your elbow as shown. Start at the centre-back of your neck and measure aross the shoulder, around the elbow
and to your wrist.
Waist
The easiest way is to look at the tag in the pants you are wearing right now! Alternatively you can measure around
your natural waist where your pants sit most comfortably.
Inseam
Remove your shoes and measure from your crotch to your ankle.
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Performance
“…flame resistant properties will remain effective for
the life of the garment, regardless of the number of
washing and wearing cycles.”
How it Works
and convert the fabric into garments. As a result cut & sew
manufacturers may be forced to minimize fabric usage which
compromises fit and construction. Simply stated, cut & sew
manufacturing does not lend itself to innovation or value for
the customer.
When exposed to an ignition source such as flames, severe
heat or an electric arc, Benchmark FR garments will react to
protect the wearer by self-extinguishing within moments
after the ignition source has been removed. It is this rapid
reaction that can save the wearer’s life and limit the extent of
an injury.
At Benchmark our clothing’s fit is based entirely on what is
comfortable to wear and not what is the most economical to
construct. We take pride in the fact that our garments have
style, fit generously, feel softer and wear more comfortably
than other flame resistant garments on the market. Compare
Benchmark to other brands; the difference will be obvious.
Benchmark FR fabrics are permanently impregnated with an
organo-phosphorous flame retardant which reacts with the
hydroxyl group in the cellulose of cotton. This flame
retardant is not a coating, but rather, a chemical bond with
natural cotton’s molecular structure. In the event that the
fabric is exposed to an ignition source, a carbon scaffold is
formed through a rapid dehydration of the cotton’s cellulose.
This reaction not only counteracts heat penetration, but also
controls the spread of fire by “removing the fuel” from the
fabric.
Permanently impregnated fiber
Benchmark FR garments will not melt or drip and they will
not shrink in the presence of heat. By maintaining a fabricto-skin air cushion, Benchmark FR garments offer an
increased level of thermal protection. If our simple care
instructions are followed the flame resistant properties will
remain effective for the life of the garment, regardless of the
number of washing and wearing cycles.
Our Advantage
When flame resistant fabrics were first introduced, there was
no benchmark, or standard of measure, to gauge the
performance level of each fabric. With the recent
development and adaptation of codes and standards, we can
now quantify the various levels of protection offered by a
flame resistant material. “We are the safest” is no longer an
empty catch phrase, and can actually be determined in an
evaluation of the ratings, which are shown inside each piece
of protective equipment.
At Benchmark, we oversee the entire manufacturing process
from start to finish. We are a “vertical manufacturer.” This
means that we weave the majority of our fabrics, impart
them with flame resistant properties, and then carefully
construct the finished garments for a comfortable, lasting fit.
In fact, the only outsourcing we allocate is for testing
performed by independent laboratories. All Benchmark FR
materials are evaluated by third party laboratories to ensure
unbiased and accurate test results.
We feel that being a vertical manufacturer shows a
commitment to both the FR market and our products. Many
of our competitors are known as “cut & sew” manufacturers
because they simply purchase treated material from a mill
Coated fiber with limited durability
200 Wash Test
ASTM 1506 requires that the test for determining the flame resistance of textiles be performed the following two ways; on new
(unwashed) fabric and on fabric washed 25 times. Both methods require that the fabric has a char length of less than 6” and an after
flame time of less than 5 seconds.
In September of 2008, Benchmark voluntarily performed a test in which the goal was to measure the char length on Benchmark FR
fabric after 200 washes. This wash test was not merely “simulated”, but actually performed by a third party laboratory. The
Benchmark FR fabric was washed and dried 200 times using a permanent wash cycle, standard detergent, a wash temperature of 120
degrees and a permanent press dry cycle.
Conclusion
After 200 washes, not only did the Benchmark FR fabric remain flame resistant, but the char length actually decreased or improved.
Skin Safe message from Benchmark
SWEAT SAFE, SALIVA SAFE, NO TOXINS, NO AMMONIA CURE,
NO HALOGENS, NON ALLERGENIC, NO HEAVY METALS, NO FREE FORMALDEHYDE
“…protective garments not only provide the required protection, but are also safe to wear.”
At Benchmark, safety is our highest concern. We realize that companies and individuals today want to be sure that protective
garments not only provide the required protection, but are also safe to wear. With this goal, we have voluntarily adopted the most
stringent applicable international health codes, monitoring levels of toxicity and allergens in flame resistant garments.* Benchmark
FR is unique because our treatment process yields a fabric that is safe to wear directly against the skin and also non-allergenic. In
other brands, direct contact with the skin or bodily secretions can leach or dissolve textile finishing products. At Benchmark, our
method chemically bonds a flame retardant to the cotton's cellulose fiber so that it becomes an integral part of the cotton's structure; it
is not a simple surface "coating."
Benchmark’s FR process does not use ammonia to cure the retardant and our formulation does not contain any heavy metals or
halogens. The end result is a superior flame resistant fiber which will not react with saliva or sweat**, nor pose any other secondary
threat to human health. With regard to contact with the human body, there is virtually no difference between Benchmark FR cotton
and untreated cotton.
*Benchmark's fabrics conform to the Oeko-Tex 100 and the Japanese Law 112, which are the most stringent international standards
currently gauging toxicity and formaldehyde content in flame resistant garments.
**In both indirect and direct contact dermatological tests for saliva and sweat interaction performed by the Food and Drug Research
Laboratory, the University of California's San Francisco Medical Center and SGS Laboratories, no evidence of harmful or irritant
reactions was shown. These tests conclude that there is no mutenegenic behavior, no immunotoxicity and no cytotoxicity.
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Garment Care
Simple Care
Benchmark FR garments will remain flame resistant for
the life of the garment provided they are cared for
properly. Our wash instructions are simple and mostly
require that you leave out extra chemicals during the
laundering process.
•
•
•
The dry cleaning solvents should be clean.
Solvents systems are safe.
Solvent systems charged with water and
detergents are safe.
Important:
•
•
Wash Benchmark garments once every six
months, but no less than once a year,
regardless of use.
o Frequent washing is recommended to
avoid soiling and to maintain peak
flame resistant properties. (ASTM F2757)
Remove and clean clothing if soiled with
contaminants or flammable material.
o All materials influencing flammability
must be completely washed off the
garment.
The Industrial or Commercial Wash
You must notify your laundry service that they are
washing a flame resistant product. Flame resistant
garments are designed to react to heat and it is
important the laundry service knows to follow the wash
instructions which are embroidered/sewn inside the back
of every Benchmark garment.
•
•
Simple Care Options
Home Wash
This is the preferred method for cleaning your flame
resistant garments because even the most basic home
washer will keep your garments looking better than an
industrial wash service. This is because there are less
garments being washed at once, hence less abrasion.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Set washing machine on cotton cycle.
Warm water or normal temperature setting (140
degrees Fahrenheit)
Home laundry detergent (e.g. Tide® or All®).
Do not use bleach whether separate or
contained within the detergent.
Do not use hydrogen peroxide or oxygenating
agents (e.g. OxyClean®).
Do not use lye based, tallow or home-made
soaps.
Do not use fabric softeners.
Tumble dry low or medium heat, do not over
dry.
Avoid pressing with open steam.
Do not use starch.
Do not use acid rinses.
Do not use hard water
o Use softening agents (Stasoft) or water
softening systems.
Dry Cleaning
While all Benchmark products can be dry cleaned, it is
the favored method for washing Benchmark insulated
garments such as parka’s and bibs.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Wash soiled Benchmark flame resistant garments
separately
o This avoids cross contamination.
We recommend flush, break, carry over and rinse
with water not exceeding 165 degrees
Fahrenheit.
o Benchmark FR properties are normally
not affected by high wash temperatures
however, to avoid excessive shrinkage
they should be avoided.
o Lower temperatures for lightly soiled
garments are recommended for
increased garment life and maximum
color retention.
Adequately rinse garments to remove detergents
and residues.
o Garments should have a pH of 7 or
should be slightly alkaline.
Do not use sour or acid rinsing agents
o Neutralizing alkaline materials with acid
can form salt deposits and should be
avoided.
o Caustic based alkaline does not rinse
well.
o Adequate rinsing to achieve dilution and
a neutral to slightly alkaline pH should be
used.
Do not use bleach whether separate or
contained within the detergent.
Do not use lye based, tallow or home-made
soaps.
Benchmark FR garments can be dried using
typical methods for cotton however to avoid
excess shrinkage over drying should be avoided.
Typical cotton pressing techniques can be used,
however avoid finishing and pressing with open
steam.
Do not use starch
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Codes
NFPA 70e:
National Fire Protection Association’s Standard for
Electrical Safety in the Workplace is a voluntary standard
that is widely considered to be the best practice guide for
protecting workers from arc flash. It addresses electrical
safety requirements in workplaces during activities such as
the installation, operation, maintenance, and demolition of
electric conductors, electric equipment, communications
equipment, and raceways.
The essence of NFPA 70e, from a Personal Protection
Equipment (PPE) perspective, is to identify the threat and
accurately match your PPE to the threat. It is beyond the
scope of this website to explain NFPA 70e, but we do
recommend visiting www.NFPA.org for complete
information.
HRC:
HRC is an abbreviation for Hazard/Risk Category. This is a
classification system published in NFPA 70e which is used
to match protective clothing and equipment to tasks
performed on energized equipment.
Note: There are five Hazard/Risk Categories (0, 1, 2, 2*, 3
and 4) with clothing system arc rating requirements ranging
from 0 to 40 cal/cm2. See NFPA 70e, Table 130.7(C) (11)
and Article 130 for complete information.
Arc Rating:
An arc rating can be reported as ATPV or Ebt and it is used
to match protective clothing and equipment to the threat.
ATPV stands for Arc Thermal Performance Value and is
expressed in cal/cm2. Some people in the industry may refer
to this as “Cals”, and while this term is not recognized by
code, it is short for calories-per-square-centimeter. This
measure represents the amount of energy a material will
block until there is a 50% probability that there would be a
second degree burn. This number describes the protective
clothing’s ability to resist heat.
Incident Energy, which is the amount of energy from an
electrical arc that is likely to be experienced at a certain
distance, describes the threat. It too is expressed in cal/cm2.
ASTM 1506:
This is “Standard Performance Specification for Flame
Resistant Textile Materials for Wearing Apparel for Use by
Electrical Workers Exposed to Momentary Electric Arc and
Related Thermal Hazards.”
It sets the minimum performance criteria for fabric that is
used as a flame resistant garment. It includes requirements
for flame travel, seam strength, tearing, bursting strength and
more.
NESC 2007:
The National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) has been
adopted by municipalities and states around the country. It
was designed for people working on electrical supply, utilities,
communications and associated equipment. It compliments the
NFPA 70e code because it provides practical work rules for
electrical generation, distribution and communication, or
people who must work on or near energized parts because it is
not possible or practical to de-energize.
There are three clothing system ratings in this code 4-cal, 8-cal
and 12 cal systems which are based on voltage, fault current
and maximum clearing times for voltages up to 800kV.
NFPA 2112:
This is a flame resistant garment standard for protection of
industrial personnel against a flash fire. This standard contains
dozens of tests which the material, fabric, accessories and
garment must pass. For example, the garment must achieve
less than a 50% total body burn, as tested on a thermal
mannequin. The fabric must maintain flame resistant
properties after 100 commercial washes, a low thermal
shrinkage, maintain colorfastness and a host of other design
standards which are all part of NFPA 2112. For more
information www.nfpa.org
Note: It is important to note you cannot certify a fabric, but
only a garment to this standard. Many brands of flame
resistant garments can not pass this test.
OSHA 1910.269:
This Occupational Safety and Health Administration standard
applies to electric utilities and generation plants when work is
performed on existing facilities. It requires that employees
who work around energized electrical parts not wear clothing
that, when exposed to flames or electric arc, does not
contribute to the extent of the burn injury. In common
language, it requires that in the event of a hazardous incident,
your clothing can not make the injury worse.
This means do not wear clothing that will support combustion,
melt, or have high rates of thermal shrinkage. This rule
prohibits polyester, nylon and other synthetic non-FR
materials.
Flame resistant clothing that meets the requirements of ASTM
F 1506 “Standard Performance Specification for Flame
Resistant Textile Materials for Wearing Apparel for Use by
Electrical Workers Exposed to Momentary Electric Arc and
Related Thermal Hazards” complies with OSHA
1910.269. www.OSHA.gov
OSHA 1910.32:
This is a broad explanation of the employers’ responsibility to
their employees. In general terms, it states that it is the
employers’ duty to identify potential danger and protect the
employee from those hazards. OSHA has used this “General
Duty Clause” to cite employers who did not require the use of
flame resistant clothing after their employees were burned.
Policies
Orders
Orders can be placed via
•
email (info@arcflashppc.com)
•
Customer Service: +27 11 452 2879
•
Telephonically (Carrie McLeod +27 72 573 1375)
•
Or with Warren McLeod (+27 82 419 6910) or Iain MacKenzie
(+27 74 588 0700)
Please speak to our sales staff before placing your order to establish
whether we have any special offers available.
Guarantee and Returns Policy
Our products are guaranteed to be free from manufacturing defects.
Please check all garments on receipt for the unlikely event that a
defective garment has been shipped. If this is the case please contact
our Customer Service Department to make arrangements for the return
and credit/replacement of the item.
Shipping and Delivery
Shipping and delivery terms as per your quotation. Delivery is usually
between four to six weeks.
Payment Terms
50% deposit. Balance on presentation of invoice prior to final
delivery/collection.
Minimum Orders
Orders of less than 50 items will be grouped with other smaller orders to
minimize shipping costs. This may result in delays. Orders of 50 items or
more will be imported immediately.
Arc Flash Personal Protective Clothing (Pty) Ltd
221 Bushwillow Park, Greenstone Hill, Johannesburg
PO Box 1283, Edenvale, 1610
Phone: +27 11 452-2879
Email: info@arcflashppc.com
Website: www.arcflashppc.com
Notes
Arc Flash PPC (Pty) Ltd)
info@arcflashppc.com
www.arcflashppc.com
+27 11 452-879