Wear tests in real working envinonment
How real-world wear tests reveal the true performance of protective workwear
Shortly after the turn of the millennium, an incident occurred at one of our customers’ sites. A pair of trousers caught fire in the factory, even though the fabric met all requirements and standards.
How could this happen?
In this article, we explain why realistic fabric and wear tests are crucial, and how they can be carried out directly in the workplace. Even when garments are tested and approved in laboratory environments, real working conditions can reveal weaknesses that would otherwise go unnoticed.
Reality differs from the lab
In this case, it turned out that the Flame Retardant had deteriorated over time. The cotton carrying the Flame Retardant had gradually been washed out of the garment.
Together with the customer, we decided to switch to inherent Flame Retardant, where the protection is built into the fibres and is not affected by washing.
This article shows how you can ensure that protective workwear performs under real-life conditions, and how simple tests can provide valuable insight into a garment’s actual level of protection.
At Tranemo, we always start from specific risks and real working conditions when developing protective workwear. Just like in our risk-specific approach, wear tests are about ensuring that each garment works where it is actually used. It is only in the real working environment that protection, comfort and function can truly be evaluated.
Four steps to ensure the protective workwear is right for the working environment
One important lesson is that laboratory testing can never replace real-world use. That is why we have four main steps to ensure that each protective workwear solution performs as intended in its specific working environment.
1. Fabric testing for protective workwear
Fabric testing in real environments is often the first step. If no current solution exists, we send fabric samples to the customer for on-site testing, for example against molten metal splashes.
This is particularly important because EN 11612 only tests protection against molten iron and aluminium. Other metals and alloys can affect fabrics in very different ways. Customer-led testing is therefore crucial for assessing whether protection can withstand actual workplace risks.
At lower risk levels, this type of testing is not always necessary.
2. Wearer trials for protective workwear
Does the garment perform as expected in daily use? Does it fit properly? Are pockets and stretch panels positioned correctly?
Wearer trials provide answers on how garments perform over time in terms of protection, comfort and durability. By allowing users to wear the garments in real working conditions, often for several months, you gain a clear picture of functionality and longevity.
Collaboration with laundries can also provide valuable insight into how garments are affected by frequent washing.
3. User council for protective workwear
To collect structured feedback, we recommend establishing a user council that includes both wearers and decision makers. This creates a forum for capturing experiences, practical needs and suggestions for improvement.
We are happy to participate actively, contributing our expertise and helping ensure the right conclusions are drawn.
4. Adjustments and improvements for protective workwear
Based on these insights, garments and solutions are refined. The process is repeated until protection, comfort and function meet operational requirements.
Protective workwear used in practice provides real safety
The most important thing is that the garments are used by those who require them. That is why users should be involved early in the selection and design of protective workwear. They know best which features, comfort levels and ergonomics are needed to work safely and efficiently.
For safety managers and purchasers, this means a clear responsibility. Protection is not only about standards, but about how garments perform in everyday work.
Through realistic testing, you build a stronger basis for decision making and contribute to safer workplaces.
“The most important thing is that the garments are used by those who require them.”
The right protection starts with the right questions
Contact us via the form to get help choosing the right protection for your work environment, or book a meeting with one of our experts.