Kitchen workers constantly face high temperatures, hot surfaces, and open flames. Not to mention the unpredictable mishaps with hot oil or hot water. It’s a busy kitchen environment that demands protective clothing to prevent burns and ensure the wearer’s skin is well shielded. This is where fire-retardant (FR) chef aprons come into play. This protective barrier, often worn over chef’s jackets or chef whites, is a blend of science and fabric engineering designed to keep chefs safe. Let’s explore fire-retardant chef aprons and their key features.
Types of flame retardant treatment
Inherently flame resistant
When a fabric is designated as inherently fire-retardant, the flame retardancy will last for the life of the fabric. This is because the flame-resistant properties have been woven into the fabric fibre, providing long-lasting protection. These aprons can typically be laundered or dry-cleaned as recommended by the manufacturer.
Chef Works Premium Woven Bib Apron Navy and White Stripe
This premium apron is perfect for any chef, traditional in design and made from yarn dyed polycotton.
Chef Works Urban Memphis Bistro Apron Black
Designed using a cotton denim material, the Chef Works Bistro Apron makes easy work of the toughest catering duties.
Chef Works Urban Portland Fine Stripe Bib Apron Grey
The Portland Bib apron is ideal for contemporary establishments.
Chef Works Urban Wet Look Boulder Bib Apron Black and Brown
Made from durable, 100% cotton denim with a PU coating, the Boulder Apron has all the style, functionality and practicality of the urban range.
Burnguard Nylon QuicKlean Bib Apron Blue
Make protection a priority, with the bib apron from Burnguard. The apron is made with a burn resistant, VaporGuard barrier that protects the body from hot liquids, grease and oils.
Chemically ministered
Some aprons are made from fabrics that have been topically treated with chemicals to make them flame retardant. Over time, particularly with repeated cleaning, the flame retardancy of these fabrics will dissipate. These fabrics must be dry-cleaned with a non-liquid cleaning agent to maintain their protective qualities.
Apron fabric types and weights
Cotton blend
A cotton blend, including aprons, is popular for chef’s clothing. Cotton has some level of flame resistance, but when blended with materials with naturally flame-resistant properties, the resulting fabric offers enhanced protection.
Fabric weights
The weight of the fabric also plays a crucial role in protective clothing. Lightweight fabrics offer less thermal insulation but might be more comfortable in a hot kitchen. Heavy fabric offers better thermal effects but might become cumbersome during long cooking sessions.
How flame retardants work
Flame retardants work by coating the flammable fabrics with a mineral-based barrier. This coating prevents fire from reaching the material’s fibres, protecting the wearer. This barrier benefits a work environment where hot liquids, sizzling oil, and high heat are everyday elements.
Additional handy features
Thermal insulation and wrinkle resistance
Besides being flame resistant, chef aprons often have added features like thermal insulation to protect against hot surfaces and liquids. Some are also designed to be wrinkle-resistant, ensuring a professional appearance.
Neck Strap and outer surface
The design of the apron, including elements like a neck strap and the outer material, is also considered. The exterior often has enhanced thermal properties to resist flames and heat better.
Lab coats vs Chefs Wear
Interestingly, lab coats, commonly used in scientific environments, also share some similarities with chef’s uniforms regarding their need for flame resistance. However, the requirements for chef’s jackets, pants, and aprons are usually more specific to the kitchen environment.
Proper care for longevity
Taking proper care of your fire-retardant chef apron is essential. Since the durability of chemically treated aprons can be compromised by improper cleaning, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Conclusion
The world of chef’s uniforms has significantly evolved to include FR clothing like fire retardant aprons. Understanding the materials, fabric weight, and treatments can help kitchen staff make an informed choice. With options ranging from cotton fabric to specialised FR fabric and from lightweight to heavy-duty styles, there is something to suit every need in today’s culinary landscape.
A scientifically backed protective layer can make all the difference in the high-risk ballet of a busy kitchen, where cross-contamination, open flames, and heat sources are abundant. So the next time you see a chef manoeuvring around the kitchen in their chef’s hat and apron, know there’s a science to their style, designed to keep them safe and cool while maintaining a professional appearance.
Check out this blog if you want stylish chef aprons with patterns.
