Based on recent test data obtained from various U.S. military research and development sources, NOMEX fleece material, manufactured by both Malden Mills, Lawrence, MA, and Huntingdon Mills, Canada is approved for use as "fire resistant clothing."

The Department of the Interior, Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE) Handbook (351 DM 1), Chapter 2, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), paragraph 2.2 Fire Resistant Clothing, currently states:

"The preferred material is commonly known as "Nomex." The actual material may be Nomex, polyamide, aramide, polybenzimidazole, Kevlar..."

With the addition of NOMEX fleece, the new sentences should read:

""The preferred material is commonly known as "NOMEX." The actual material may be NOMEX, NOMEX fleece, polyamide, aramide, polybenzimidazole, Kevlar..."

Keep in mind that NOMEX fiber is manufactured by DuPont. Subsequent manufacturing processes, by companies such as Malden Mills and Huntingdon Mills, produce NOMEX fleece. As previously mentioned, test results have been received for NOMEX fleece produced by these two manufacturers only. Finally, NOMEX fleece, under various brand names, is then used in the manufacture of finished products such as jackets, vests, etc. by additional manufacturers.

For those interested in purchasing fire resistant fleece clothing, ensure that the finished product has been manufactured with NOMEX fleece. This change to the ALSE manual will also be addressed in a subsequent information bulletin to all ALSE Handbook Users. Please ensure widest dissemination of this ALSE Handbook change.