5 Things You Didn't Know About Bug Repellent and Flame Resistance

Summer is right around the corner, are you adequately protected? Depending on your geographic locale, some insect borne illnesses that you may be at risk for are: Lyme disease, Heartland virus, West Nile disease, and more.There are many repellent ingredients and application types on the market. Depending on the work environment you need to use it in, there can be unique advantages and disadvantages for each of the products available. A few lesser known facts about these repellents include:

1. The well-known, longer lasting ingredients DEET and picaridin are not safe to use in  flammable or arc flash risk areas such as industrial work environments because they contain flammable contaminants. DEET and picaridin also reduce the thermal protection of FR clothing.

2. A higher concentration of DEET doesn’t mean stronger. A higher concentration of DEET equates to a longer period of protection.

8-ca 3. Two common non-flammable natural insect bug repellents include geranoil and Vitamin B1. Geranoil is applied as a topical while B1 may be consumed in supplement form or via a patch. Stick with natural solutions if applying to face or neck.

4. Permethrin treated clothing, such as these coveralls, offers insect repellent while staying flame resistant. It may be applied during production of a garment or afterwards by the consumer.

5. If also applying sunscreen, the CDC suggests applying it first before bug repellent. Pay attention to when each product should be reapplied as they are likely to not be at the same intervals.

When you're all finished working for the day wash your skin with soap and water, and wash treated clothing by itself before wearing again. If you develop symptoms of an insect related illness, see a doctor immediately.

PK Safety partners with you to meet OSHA regulations and stay safe all year round, see all of the repellents that we offer here. Work hard and stay safe!