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U.S. Navy announces improved flame resistant coverall

Posted at 12:11 PM, Feb 12, 2018
and last updated 2018-02-12 20:00:31-05

NORFOLK, (NNS) – Sailors and their commands will now be able to wear the U.S. Navy’s new and improved coverall.

The  Improved Flame Resistant Variant (IFRV) coverall will replace the legacy Flame Resistant Variant (FRV) coverall. The change was announced in January 2017 after the completion of a series of tests. The IFRV addresses comfort and durability issues found with the original FRV coverall, according to the U.S. Navy.

“The original FRV was rapidly introduced to the fleet because Sailor safety is our top priority,” said CAPT Mark Runstrom, director, Fleet Supply Operations/Services, USFF. “However, we recognized immediately that we needed a coverall that is more durable, functional, and comfortable as well as safe. That is what the IFRV is all about.”

The material used for the new IFRV is a tri-fiber blend. The new material will help to offer arc flash protection and provide improved moisture management by allowing the fiber to breathe more efficiently. The IFRV coverall is also designed for sustained durability lasting nearly twice as long as the FRV.

The Navy says that the USFF will be testing several versions of the new coverall, a two piece one that has varying design features, this coming Spring.

Below are details provided by a Navy press release on proper manner of wear for the coverall: 

Sailors stationed aboard ships and submarines will be issued a minimum of two IFRV coveralls with units authorized to procure name tags using unit operating target funds. The manner of wear will be the same as the FRV coveralls, prescribing wearers to don full sleeves and secured fastenings. The current 9-inch black, steel-toed boot and Navy or command ball caps are authorized for wear with the coverall.

Approved belts include a black cotton web belt for E1-E6, a khaki cotton web belt for chief petty officers and officers and; rigger’s belts are authorized at command discretion.

Rank tabs and insignia are authorized to be sewn or pinned on the coverall based on the wearer’s duties and unit preference.

Rectangular, Velcro-backed name tags will be worn centered, 1/4-inch above the left breast pocket-similar in size, shape and content to the V-neck sweater name tag. Embossed leather name tags or fabric embroidered unit specific name tags similar to those worn on the green Nomex flight jacket will be authorized for wear at the discretion of unit commanders.

Blue or brown undershirts are authorized for wear with the IFRV, although blue undershirts are being phased out with the introduction of the Navy Working Uniform Type III.

Members will not be authorized to stencil or serialize any portion of outer fabric of the IFRV nor attach unit or flag patches due to the risk of degrading the flame resistant fabric. However, Sailors are allowed to stencil the inner parts for identification purposes.