Working in hazardous environments, such as those that produce cold temperatures and flames, requires proper protective gear to ensure safety. For many workers across various industries, exposure to cold temperatures and burn hazards is common during certain seasons. In such situations, wearing fire-resistant winter-weather PPE, such as FR hoodies, comes into play. 

MCR Safety understands the importance of providing workers with comfortable and safe protective gear that meets their job requirements and working environments. We provide high-quality hoodies designed to keep you warm and comfortable, with the added feature of being fire-resistant for those who work in environments where fire and burns are a hazard. Examples of these environments include occupations in oil and gas, welding, and utilities.

In this article, we will explore MCR Safety's FR hoodies and their benefits, including the different designs available and their features, so you can make an informed decision when choosing the suitable hoodie for your job.

FR/AR Hoodies 

First, what is a hoodie? Generally, a hoodie is a sweatshirt with a hood and a large pocket in front. Some may have zippers down the front with a front pocket on each side; others may be pull-over options. Hoodies are ideal for cooler weather and conditions because the hood offers warmth and protection for the head, and the pouch helps keep hands warm. 

The Champion company is believed to have created the first hooded sweatshirt in the 1930s after developing better methods for sewing thicker materials. The hoods were meant to keep workers warm in cold conditions. Since their debut, hoodies have become a staple of many wardrobes and are worn by people of all ages, genders, and occupations for work and leisure. 

Our FR hoodies utilize 100% FR cotton interlock fleece, ensuring all-day comfort.

In short, a hoodie is a comfortable option for head warmth when temperatures start dropping. It is the perfect solution when you need additional layers. However, not all hoodies are AR/FR rated.  So, if you need flame-resistant FR clothing, you will want to continue reading.

FR Rated

FR/AR hoodies refer to hoodies that are both flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR).  MCR Safety is a well-known personal protective equipment (PPE) brand, and our offerings extend into FR clothing.  We stock a range of fr rated hoodies that meet the NFPA 70E Standard for electrical safety in the workplace. Each style we will cover below is rigorously tested to NFPA 70E, ensuring the level of protection required for workers in these environments.  All four different designs are Cat 2 rated for arc flash hazards. 

Flame-resistant (FR) means the hoodie will resist catching on fire when exposed to flames and self-extinguish once a flame source is removed. Arc-rated (AR) means that the hoodie has been tested and rated to protect against arc flash, an electrical explosion that can occur when working with energized equipment.

Zip Up Hoodie

SS1BK - Black Front zip hoodie

Our SS1N and SS1BK hoodie designs feature a full-length zipper that runs down the front of the garment, allowing for easy on-and-off functionality.  Plus, it provides added ventilation for workers needing to adjust their body temperature throughout the day.The FR hoodie zipper utilizes durable materials designed to withstand the high temperatures and energy levels associated with arc flash and other electrical hazards. It is also sewn with flame-resistant thread for added protection and peace of mind.

SS1N - Navy Full Zip Hoodie

With a full-length zipper, workers can easily adjust the level of ventilation and insulation provided by the hoodie, allowing them to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day. With a zipper design, workers can quickly and easily remove the hoodie in an emergency or hazard without struggling to pull it over their heads. Check out our below matrix covering the features and benefits of this design.

FR Pullover

SS2N - Navy Pullover

Soon after we released our full zip up design, our customers began requesting a pullover sweatshirt design, and we aim to please! Our SS2N and SS2BK pullover hoodies provide wearers with a snug and secure fit, beneficial for workers who need to move around or perform physical tasks. Also, because they lack a zipper, no moving parts can break or malfunction over time. It means this garment will last years of use and wear, whereas a zipper design will only last as long as it withstands wear and tear. Check out our matrix below, showing the numerous features and benefits of the pullover fr option.  

SS2BK - Black Pullover

The MCR Safety flame-resistant hooded pullover sweatshirt is a top-quality garment designed to provide maximum protection and comfort for workers who require FR-rated PPE. Made from 100% FR cotton interlock fleece, this pullover sweatshirt offers superior warmth and insulation, making it ideal for use in cold or challenging environments.

FR Welding Pullover

The hoodie's breathability and comfort also make it a preferred choice for welders, especially when choosing between a heavy coat and a hoodie. This is because welding conditions already produce lots of heat. However, external conditions will sometimes call for some insulation during the winter months.

Welding workers require FR hoodies as a part of their protective equipment (PPE) when weather conditions begin cooling.  Instead of wearing a non-insulated fr shirt, welders will often seek the warmth of a hoodie to protect themselves from severe burns to the skin.  Similiar to the shirt, hoodies protect the worker's arm from flying sparks and flames.  In addition, they also protect the worker's head, neck, and shoulders from heat and flames.

All MCR Safety FR Hoodie Designs

Welders may prefer the pullover design for its snug fit and classic look, while others may prefer the convenience and versatility of the zip-up design. Ultimately, both styles offer workers the protection and comfort required in hazardous environments.

Hi-Vis Non-FR Hoodies 

S2CL3LZ

MCR Safety offers high-visibility hoodies for those whose jobs take them out into the dark or inclement weather, where poor visibility is a more significant threat than heat and flame exposure. 

Common Questions

We are always listening to our customers. Here are a couple of commonly asked questions about our hoodies:

• What size hoodie should I get? 
• How do I fold a hoodie? 

While MCR Safety’s hoodies suit workers in various jobs and industries, everyone has unique needs and preferences, starting with size. You want your hoodie to fit comfortably and correctly, not be too bulky so that you cannot layer it, or so oversized that it causes a hazard at work. 

Follow these steps to find the right fit for your hoodie:

1. Measure the circumference of your chest to the fullest part.
2. Compare your measurement to the MCR Safety Size Chart. 
3. Consider sizing up to ensure a comfortable fit between the two sizes.

Have you found the perfect FR hoodie but aren’t sure how to store it? Here’s the best way to fold a hoodie when you aren’t using it on the job: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spga09MsB7M. 

Which is the cheap FR hoodie?  

• All of our designs are equally priced above, so no one is cheaper than the other. The only thing that might make the pullover a cheaper design is the longevity expected from not having any parts. However, the choice between the pullover and zip-up style of FR hoodie depends on personal preference and the job's specific needs.

FR Winter Clothing Options

When your job puts you at risk for both burns and frostbite, you need the right combination of PPE to allow you to do your job safely and comfortably. Investing in high-quality flame-resistant winter PPE is crucial when working in cold and burn-hards environments. MCR Safety offers a range of FR hoodies designed to provide workers maximum comfort, warmth, and protection while meeting industry standards for flame and arc flash resistance.

Whether you prefer a pullover or zip-up design, each MCR Safety FR hoodie is made from 100% FR cotton interlock fleece, ensuring all-day comfort and peace of mind. With features such as attached hoods with FR cords, front pouch pockets, and ribbed cuffs, our hoodies provide the necessary protection and convenience for workers in various industries, including oil and gas, welding, and utilities.

Remember always to choose the appropriate size for your hoodie to ensure a comfortable fit, and follow our folding tips to keep it in good condition. MCR Safety is committed to providing workers with the best FR clothing options, so why not invest in a high-quality hoodie today?

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For over 45 years, MCR Safety has proven to be a world leader in gloves, glasses, and garments. Whether you're handling circuit boards, assembling a PC, or working at a construction site, we provide solutions to workplace hazards. It's all part of our commitment to protect people. 

No matter your industry, we have the personal protective equipment you need.

Learn more about MCR Safety by checking out our most recent video. For more information, browse our website, request a catalog, find a distributor, or give us a call at 800-955-6887.