Navy runs tests on threat from lint, clears cotton, flame-resistant coveralls for submariners

The Navy is issuing cotton, flame-resistant coveralls for submarine sailors after running tests to make sure the boats' ventilation systems would not be clogged by lint.

The new outfits replace the cotton-polyester coveralls sailors have been wearing during deployments.

The Navy began issuing the new coveralls to aviation and surface-fleet sailors early last year to help reduce the risks from fires on ships, but the submarine force held off until it could assess the impact on filters and other parts of the system that provides the crew's air for breathing.

All submarine crews have been directed to make the switch by the end of this year.

The tests on the all-cotton coveralls were conducted aboard USS Montpelier, an attack submarine based in Virginia.