Time and again, we receive questions about the reusability of fire blankets after use. Especially after a fire incident, there is often uncertainty: Can the blanket be used again or is it a case for disposal?
As a general rule, a fire blanket that has been used in an actual fire is contaminated and no longer DIN SPEC-compliant. Reuse is not ruled out - but it is only possible under certain conditions and with clear risk awareness.
The VLITEX fire blankets PREMIUM for electric vehicles are DIN SPEC 91489 certified. What does DIN SPEC 91489 regulate with regard to reuse?
Section 5.10 of DIN SPEC 91489 states verbatim:
"Multiple use of the fire blanket must be ensured when used as intended. This requirement only applies if:
a) the fire blanket has not been exposed to fire during use;
b) the fire blanket et has not been damaged during use (e.g. cracks or UV damage).e.g. cracks or UV damage);fire blanket amage);
c) the fire blanket has not been exposed to chemicals or contaminants (e.g. motors) during use; b) the fire blanket has not been damaged during use (e.g. cracks or UV damage).e.g. engineoil, brake fluidbrake fluid, waterwater with additives)s) or if it is possible to clean the blanket according to the manufacturer's instructions.is possible."
If the ceiling has been exposed to fire, it can no longer be considered compliant with DIN SPEC 91489 according to DIN SPEC. In such a case, it can no longer be considered a certified product for the intended use.
What happens in the event of a fire?
If a ceiling is used in a fire, it fulfills its protective function - but it absorbs toxic gases and fire residues. Even if cleaning appears to be successful, health risks remain: The ceiling is contaminated.
Reuse is possible, but should only take place if special precautions are taken - for example, storage in an airtight container and reuse only under respiratory protection.
Even without a fire: check after every use!
If a blanket has only been used as a precaution - for example to secure an electric vehicle after an accident - it is not automatically unusable. In such cases, the following applies:
Always check for damage! Tears or mechanical damage can impair the protective effect.
Recognize dubious statements
Occasionally, providers or users report that a blanket can be used "30 times or more without any problems". Such statements are not reliable. It is not possible to make a general statement about the number of uses, as each use involves different loads. The decisive factors are always the type of use, visual inspection and compliance with personal protective measures.
Conclusion
- After a fire incident, reuse may be possible, but no longer within the scope of the DIN SPEC.
- A contaminated ceiling should only be reused with appropriate protective measures.
- Every application - with or without fire - requires careful testing.
- Contaminated or damaged ceilings must be disposed of properly if necessary.
If you want to be on the safe side, you should document the condition of each blanket and pay attention to the manufacturer's information. If you have any questions about reusability or cleaning, we will be happy to help.
Safety first - for every application.
