What is the purpose of flame-resistant clothing?

The primary purpose of flame-resistant clothing is to minimize injury from electric arcs, which can occur during electrical work. These materials are specifically designed to resist ignition and prevent the spread of flames. When a worker is exposed to electrical hazards, such as arcing or flash fires, flame-resistant clothing can protect the skin from severe burns and injuries that result from these incidents. The fibers used in these clothing items char instead of melting or dripping, which helps to create a barrier against heat and flames, thus serving as a critical safety measure in environments where electrical work is performed.

While other choices like keeping the wearer cool, providing insulation against heat, and enhancing visibility may seem relevant in specific contexts, they do not specifically address the paramount safety concern of protecting against electric arcs, making them less applicable in this situation.