Anti-flash gear

Anti-flash gear, also known simply as flash gear, is basic personal protective equipment consisting of a fire-resistant hood and fire-resistant gloves,[1] often made of Nomex.

For the personal protective equipment used against electrical arc flash, see Arc flash ยง Arc flash protection equipment.
Royal Navy Sailors during the Falklands War wearing anti-flash gear
U.S. Navy sailors at their ship's helm wear flash gear during an exercise.

The purpose of anti-flash gear is to provide protection to the head, neck, face and hands from short-duration flame exposure and heat. This equipment is donned by shipboard navy personnel whenever a fire breaks out or during periods of heightened readiness.[1]

Anti-flash gear may be accompanied by other protective gear, such as life belts, helmets and gas masks. While it may be worn by first-response fire-fighting parties, regular shipboard fire-fighters will usually wear full flame-resistant and insulating protective gear similar to civilian fire fighters.

History

Anti-flash gear was introduced in the Royal Navy following the Battle of Jutland,[2] when a number of British warships had been destroyed or damaged by flash from burning cordite propellant passing through the shell handling room into the magazine. It was found that the anti-flash hoods and gloves were more effective if flame-proofed with borax or boric acid.[3]

References
  1. NAVEDTRA 14057, Damage Controlman (PDF). Naval Education and Training Professional Development and Training Center. 2001-04-01.
  2. Hough, Richard (1983). The Great War at Sea, 1914-1918. Oxford University Press. p. 223. ISBN 9780192158710.
  3. Australia in the war of 1939-1945: Ser. 5. Medical, Volume 4. Australian War Memorial. 1961. p. 122.


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