JOIFF Specification for Multifunctional Heat and Flame Protective Work Wear
Most standards for clothing to protect against heat and flame are “function specific” which means that Users who wish to comply with standards may need to buy a range of items of PPE for the activities carried out in one job role. Because of this, JOIFF identified the need for a specification for a single type of protective work wear that is multifunctional and will obviate the necessity of having different types of clothing for each exposure where common risks are present. Such garments where protection against sudden exposure to heat and flame is a key requirement are used for certain types of work wear and by Emergency Response personnel for many of the diverse range of activities in which they engage.
To address this need, JOIFF engaged in detailed consultations and a range of laboratory tests with the aim of developing a specification for multifunctional heat and flame protective work wear with performance requirements that will be achievable by quality products that will provide garments that are truly “fit for purpose”. The specification was completed and accepted as part of the JOIFF Standard and the final version was published on the JOIFF website in August 2009.
The JOIFF Specification sets out minimum requirements for work wear to protect against heat and flame and certain mechanical exposures. Subject to risk assessment, the work wear may be required to provide additional protective features and the first edition of this specification identifies two such extra requirements, conspicuity and protection against the ingress of water droplets whilst also allowing egress of water vapour from the body. Minimum requirements for these aspects are covered in Appendices.
Publication of this is specification is a unique step forward in the production of standards because the JOIFF Specification is one of the very few standards that is “User led”.