The purpose of these notes is to explain the standards which the PROBAN flame retardant aprons comply to and to enable clients to decide whether they wish to continue using the aprons for the purpose of protecting smokers from cigarette ash.

It is important to note that the PROBAN material has been tested against and complies with the European standard for resistance to welding hazards (Flame and Spark) - Flame Retardant ISO 14116:2008, EN ISO 11612, ISO 11611:2007, however this standard does not relate to cigarettes or cigarette ash.  A copy of the material certification is attached titled Proban Material Certification.  Also attached is a summary of those standards as they relate to flame retardancy. (Flame Retardant European standards)

There are currently no Australian Standards relating to protective clothing to protect smokers from cigarettes or cigarette ash.

We received feedback from two of our clients that a hole has appeared in an apron whilst smoking a cigarette, however the exact scenario of how this occurred is unclear.  As part of our investigation into this matter, we have filmed some short videos to show the effectiveness of the garment in relation to smoking and cigarettes, in order that client’s may make their own decisions about the suitability of the garment for their own situation.

This series of very basic videos shows the strengths and weaknesses of the product. Please watch all five videos.

Also note that this apron is intended as a flame retardant garment where there is no significant heat hazard and as such some heat and warmth could potentially be felt through the apron as it extinguishes the source of the spark/flame.

The first video illustrates the effects of cigarette ash dropping onto the apron or putting out the cigarette on the apron.

Extinguishing a cigarette - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtRJorQjxyw

The second video illustrates the extinguishing effect of the Proban apron when a cigarette lighter is held close to the fabric.

Extinguishing a lighter when held up close - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVoVIdkY6ck

The third video illustrates the impact of holding a cigarette lighter 1 inch away from the Proban material. The material is discoloured and weakened in the process of extinguishing the flame however no hole is created.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtJCyllm3Vw

The fourth video shows the scenario when we were able to create a hole by pushing the cigarette against tight material.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9bHXt-SSLA

The fifth video shows what would happen if someone extinguished a cigarette on themselves whilst they were wearing the apron.