People working outdoors, especially in the utility industry, understand the importance of Flame Resistant (FR) Clothing and the protection it provides during an arc flash. What may not be common knowledge, is what kind of insect repellent to use for outside workers while still maintaining the integrity of the FR clothing. Traditional insect repellents contain DEET, which is very effective at repelling insects. However, DEET is highly flammable and can negate the flame resistant properties of FR Clothing by actually making the garment flammable.
What is the effective Alternative?
A water-based Permethrin based insect repellent has been shown not to have an adverse effect on the flame resistance of FR Clothing. Permethrin is a human-made synthetic insecticide found in the pyrethroid family. It does not only repel insects but works as a contact insecticide, causing nervous system toxicity that leads to the death or “knockdown” of the insect. Once the chemical bonds itself to fabric fibers, it is very effective against mosquitoes, flies, ticks, and other flying insects. Permethrin is completely odorless after drying and does not stain or damage clothing. It is not harmful to skin and will metabolize in the same process as hand and body lotions when applied.
CRC has developed and tested an insect repellent based on Permethrin which is called “FR Clothing Insect Repellent”. The easy to spray aerosol provides uniform coverage on garments for total protection to the user. One treatment lasts 2 weeks or up to 6 washings.