PERF has launched a new range of biogenic inherent flame-resistant (IFR) and arc-flash protective workwear in India at OSH India Expo 2026 in Mumbai. The garments are designed for workers in high-risk industries, including power generation and distribution, data centres, mining, steel and aluminium, oil and gas, refineries, petrochemicals and foundries.
The range uses EXCO, a biogenic protective material developed through seven years of research and development involving PERF and an Italian technology partner. The company says the material combines inherent flame resistance with the softness and breathability of natural fibres and is up to 99.9% biodegradable.
The workwear is designed to protect workers exposed to electrical arc flashes, extreme heat, fire, explosions and molten metal. Arc-flash incidents can generate temperatures of up to 25,000°C and expose workers to intense heat, molten material and flying particles. Such hazards can occur during electrical maintenance and work around power grids, distribution systems, motors and electrical panels.
EXCO has been developed as an alternative to conventional protective materials, including para-aramid, meta-aramid and flame-resistant viscose. According to PERF, the natural fibre-based material is intended to offer the protective properties required in demanding industrial environments while improving comfort during extended working hours.
Its softness, breathability and ability to support airflow are designed to help manage heat and moisture when workers wear protective clothing for long periods. PERF said these characteristics could encourage consistent use of personal protective equipment while maintaining the protection required for high-risk operations. The material underwent multiple rounds of testing during its development. PERF said the fabric is manufactured in India, adding a domestic production component to the development of specialised protective workwear.
“The development of EXCO has been driven by a simple question: can we provide workers with the high level of protection required in industries such as power, mining, data centres, metal and oil and gas without compromising on the breathability, comfort, softness and environmental considerations of the material?” said Hammad Rahman, CEO of PERF. Mr Rahman said the seven-year collaboration with the Italian partner had focused on combining inherent flame resistance with natural-fibre characteristics and biodegradability.
The research and development programme was led by Enrico Bonafini, who worked with PERF to develop and refine the material for industrial protective applications. “Our objective with this development was not simply to create another protective fabric. We wanted to develop a material that could meet the demanding requirements of technical protective apparel while offering the characteristics of a natural fibre,” Mr Bonafini said.
PERF is an Indian manufacturer of occupational safety products and personal protective equipment (PPE). Its product range includes safety footwear, head protection, hand protection, face and ear protection, workwear and fall-protection equipment for industrial and manufacturing customers in India and international markets.
The company’s philosophy is built around three principles: Passion, Performance and Product. PERF focuses on quality at every stage, from engineering and design to manufacturing and the finished product. It also invests in research and development to improve product performance and develop solutions that address workplace safety requirements.
PERF aims to use technology to make workplaces safer while improving employee productivity and comfort. Its business approach is guided by internationalisation, product differentiation and distinctiveness, with a focus on meeting the needs of customers across the markets it serves.
PERF India has its office in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, with manufacturing operations in the state. Its manufacturing facilities are supported by several recognised certifications and industry credentials, including Gold Certification from the Leather Working Group, ISO 9001:2015 for quality management, ISO 14001:2015 for environmental management across its tannery and footwear manufacturing operations, SA 8000 for social accountability and REACH compliance.
The company also holds Certified Export House status and has received recognition from the Export Promotion Bureau and the Council for Leather Exports, India. PERF states that some of its products have carried ISO certification for the past 25 years, reflecting its long-standing focus on product quality and compliance with established standards.
