Does anybody know of any reputable study that could shed light on what the expected arc protection level of standard off-the-shelf denim blue jean pants would be (calories per sq. cm)? I realize that blue jeans are not engineered with arc protection in mind, but inherently, due to the heavy cotton fabric used, some level of arc protection must be present. Thanks in advance for your input.

There has been some testing done, but recent testing has shown less protection than initally thought. The 2009 70E is removing non FR blue jeans from the tables and they will no longer be allowed for anything but HRC 0 (Along with other non FR natural fiber clothing)

You can buy arc rated jeans, I wear them when in the field, 18.3 cal/cm2, very comfortable.

Regards;
Terry Becker, P.Eng.
http://www.esps.ca

Is it true that the NFPA doesn't recommend denim jeans for HRCs 1 through 4. Zog said it above but I haven't seen an official notification about this. Anyone know?

12 oz. untreated denim cotton jeans are no longer acceptable to meet Hazard/Risk Category 1 requirements. All pants must be flame resistant.