DuPont Announces Importance of Flame-Resistant Face Coverings

Heat and Flame Protection PPE - Flame-Resistant Face CoveringsDuPont Personal Protection today announced that face coverings made with DuPont Nomex may be used along with flame-resistant (FR) garments, such as those made of Nomex, in response to the protection needs of COVID-19. When used as face, nose and mouth coverings, properly designed masks, balaclavas, gaiters and hoods made with Nomex may help meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) social distancing guidance on wearing masks in worker environments that also require FR protection.

Nomex is a trusted FR brand for workers and is inherently flame resistant. It provides protection that’s part of the fiber that can’t wash out or wear away. Lightweight, highly durable and also low-linting, Nomex provides an ideal balance of comfort and protection. Face coverings made with Nomex are suitable for use in the utilities, manufacturing, oil and gas and chemical industries, and won’t melt, drip or burn in the event of a flash fire.

“Masks made with Nomex help provide enhanced coverage with superior flame resistance,” said David Domnisch. Domnisch is the global business director for DuPont Personal Protection. “Specifying a total FR solution with both a Nomex garment and Nomex mask is essential to help ensure worker protection. Many masks may meet the CDC’s guidance on face coverings, but don’t offer flame resistance. In fact, some masks may create additional hazards for the wearer because the masks could melt, drip or burn, causing other dangers. Now, more than ever, it is essential that the recommended PPE match the challenges of the hazards at hand to help keep workers safe.”

Continuing education

DuPont will host a webinar, “Get the Facts: Industrial FR Face Coverings in the COVID-19 Era.”

This will take place on May 20, 2020, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EDT with DuPont Thermal Apparel Technical Specialist Allie Fletcher. The webinar will highlight the latest guidance on face coverings. It will also cover guidance on FR and mask standards to consider for the industrial workforce. Additionally, there will be discusson on mask selection criteria considerations and associated resources.

The DuPont Personal Protection unit of DuPont Safety & Construction remains committed to helping protect those who protect others, especially as we strive to protect the dedicated workers on the front lines fighting COVID-19.

For additional information on facial coverings made with Nomex, please see DuPont Nomex FR face coverings for COVID-19 exposure.

About DuPont Personal Protection

From first responders to industrial workers, DuPont provides a wide range of personal protection solutions including some of the most trusted and innovative brands in the industry, such as Kevlar®, Nomex®, Tyvek, and Tychem to meet your safety needs. More information can be found at www.dupont.com/personal-protective-equipment.html

About DuPont Safety & Construction

DuPont Safety & Construction is a global leader in delivering innovation for life’s essential needs in water, shelter and safety; enabling its customers to win through unique capabilities, global scale and iconic brands. These include DuPont Corian, Kevlar, Nomex, Tyvek, GREAT STUFF, Styrofoam, and FilmTec.

About DuPont

DuPont is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials, ingredients and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets, including electronics, transportation, construction, water, health and wellness, food and worker safety. More information can also be found at www.dupont.com/personal-protective-equipment.html

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