What Is The Shelf Life on Kappler Zytron and Frontline Garments?

One of the most common questions we receive about Kappler PPE suits is how long they last in storage, and how often they need to be replaced. To answer this question, we turned to Kappler's technical services department, which explains that there is currently no evidence to indicate that Zytron film fabrics lose protective qualities over time, based on a study of Zytron fabric over twenty years. Aged samples of Zytron 500 fabric were tested successfully against the ASTM F1001 battery of 21 chemical tests with no signs of breakthrough in over eight hours of exposure. These samples also have been tested and proven to maintain manufacturing specifications and physical qualities. In short, Kappler hazmat suits and other products have an undetermined shelf life as they suffer no apparent decay from time.

With this in mind, Kappler recommends that these items undergo a standard visual test (and, in the case of Level A vapor protective garments, pass an ASTM F1052 pressure test) before use. Only in the event that hazardous materials suits fail these tests should they be removed from service or downgraded to use as training suits only. Suits should be stored away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry location that is not subject to extremes of hot or cold temperatures. Kappler chemical suits are meant for multiple use, single exposure situations and should not be returned to service after use. Note that while Frontline hazmat suits are designed to add protection from flash fire and radiant heat to the standard chemical resistance offered by Zytron products, Frontline heat reflective suits are meant for escape only from chemical flash fires, and wearers should avoid intense heat and open flames.

Ask us for additional information on Kappler chemical protection suits and other chemical protection solutions for your hazardous materials handling needs.