Safety Equipment Standards Blog
Bitmap Images vs. Vector Images: August 03 2021
Many people have questions regarding submitting artwork for garment decoration such as screenprinting and embroidering. While most people are familiar with raster, or bitmapped images, the preferred artwork format is vector.What Does Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) Mean? August 02 2018
The Noise Reduction Rating, typically listed in decibels on the packaging of hearing protection devices, is not as straight forward as you might think. Read on to learn more.MDI CPR Micro shield Key-chain Pocket Mask May 28 2018
Millions have been trained in CPR in subsequent decades, yet when people require resuscitation out in the field, away from health facilities, relatively few bystanders attempt resuscitation. Only a small fraction of those in need receive resuscitation before paramedics arrive at the scene.
With the relatively large number of people trained in CPR, why isn’t it commonly done? First off, people tend to forget what to do when they panic. Even those trained professionals can’t seem to remember the steps or even sometimes forget to carry out a critical step. It is then that a bystander may resort to calling 911, despite dispatchers guiding them through stabilizing the patient through CPR.
Moreover, there is the ‘yuck’ factor: to some people, performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on a stranger or even worse, someone splurging blood and foaming all over. So pervasive is the reluctance feeling that leaves the question whether CPR is necessary on the patient.
The latter concerns can be overlooked once you employ the use of a CPR mask. It is without a doubt that a great number of diseases are spread through saliva contamination and may be extremely communicable. Much like when someone has a cold and they sneeze or cough, saliva droplets containing the virus spread out into the air, contaminating surfaces or even people close by and infecting them. However, with and CPR mask, you have the reassurance that you're safe when attempting to resuscitate someone using mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
There are numerous different CPR masks, some more portable than others. These masks allow the emergency responder to exhale through a one-way filter valve into the patient, keeping the emergency responder safe from body fluids contact.
MDI CPR Micro shield Keychain Mask
The MDI CPR Micro shield Keychain Mask offers you complete protection courtesy of the finest CPR barrier device available. It also comes with the convenience of a keychain. In readiness to save a life, a critical factor involves having your own CPR Mask barrier device with you.
MDI CPR Micro shield Keychain Features
The CPR Mask’s MICROSHIELD was specifically designed to meet two essential specifications; to protect the rescuer and enabling the rescuer to perform CPR appropriately relative to established guidelines and procedures. The patented one-way valve and single piece design of the MDI CPR Micro shield Keychain assure the rescuer of no leakages or contamination during CPR.
Every CPR Pocket Mask MICROSHIELD produced by MDI is fully inspected and tested for leaks. When performing CPR, the device doesn’t hinder the act itself, it just provides a means of protection against contact with the victim. Some devices may, however, require deviation from established procedures but the MDI CPR Micro shield Keychain is simple to use and doesn’t need any adjustments.
The MDI CPR Micro shield Keychain pocket mask may not be as effective as the larger bag valve masks in the market, but when there is an emergency and you can perform CPR on a victim, this pocket mask can come in handy. The barrier device is merely an added safety for the emergency responder.
Crews Reaper Safety Glasses May 21 2018
Most people, especially those who work in hazardous environs and industrial capacities, are hard on their safety glasses, they demand exemplary performance against scratching, breakage and protection ability. Thus, in this case, simply spending a fortune over these glasses is quite the smart decision.
Crews Reaper Safety Glasses and Protective Eyewear, brought to you by MCR Safety offers a wide range of options in safety glasses, which are all ANSI certified, contain scratch resistant coatings and provide 99.9% UV protection.
What Makes Crews Reaper Safety Glasses Safe?
In industrial settings, it is mandated that employees should wear safety eyewear whenever they are carrying out their duties. Traditionally, safety glasses were bulky and cumbersome, however, modern ones are sleek, stylish and comfortable.
For any job that poses a health threat to workers, OSHA recommends the use of appropriate PPE. Generally, in any setting that exposes its workers to flying debris, particles or hazardous liquids, appropriate eye or face protection must be worn. Most will have their lenses or frames stamped with “ANSI Z87” to meet or exceed recommended OSHA standards. ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards are set guidelines on the design, assembly, testing, and use of these protective devices, including impact and penetration resistance standards.
According to ANSI standards, lenses are divided into two protection levels, Basic Impact and High Impact relative to the test criteria. For the Basic Impact lens to be sufficient, it must pass the “drop ball” test; where a one-inch diameter steel ball is dropped from a height of 50 inches straight down the lens. High Impact lenses, on the other hand, must pass the “high velocity” test; where 1/4" steel balls are “shot” at significant velocities of between 150 ft/sec to 300 ft/sec.
Usually, the impact level is denoted on the device i.e., Z87 or +Z87 together with the manufacturer’s mark, whilst shaded lenses will have a shade number i.e., 5.0 as with the case of the Crew Reaper Safety Glasses. Moreover, special purpose lenses will have an “S” while variable tint will have the marking “V” on them.
The Crews line of safety eyewear also goes a bit further in protection and safety by meeting Military Ballistic High Velocity Standard (MIL-PRF-31013) and additionally have a fixed, strong, lightweight and water-resistant closed-cell foam and comfortable protecting you against foreign objects such as those in industrial settings as well as those in harsh environs experienced by military personnel.
In addition to being scratch resistant, Crews line of safety glasses also confer anti-fog capabilities and may come with neck cords and a microfiber pouch.
Fashion, Function & Affordability
As you can note, industrial safety glasses come from far, i.e., from being infused with military-grade technology to passing high-end ANSI tests to ensure individuals in most industrial settings get the most protection. Crews Safety Glasses come in various styles and lens types. However, most confer the same degree of protection relative to their category and use setting and moreover, they are affordable and durable.
Uvex Strategy Goggles May 14 2018
In all sensory organs of our bodies, the eyes are the most important and most sensitive. Nearly all our perception of the world around us is credited to the eyes. Moreover, our eyes accord us protection guaranteed by it natural features such as eyelashes, eyelids, tears, and blink reflex. Unfortunately, these levels of protection are insufficient in the industrial world.
In the workplace, if risks cannot be completely eliminated through operational and technical procedures, then personal protective equipment (PPE). Some countries legislation stipulates that it is the employers’ obligation to fully analyze and evaluate the possible dangers in the working environment and, further ensure protective gear, including safety eyewear, is made available to employees where required, free of charge.
PPE standards have always been defined and both they and eye protection guidelines are intended to help company owners fulfill accident prevention regulations and occupational health and safety government directives. Additionally, they are intended to show ways to prevent work-related accidents, health hazards, and illnesses.
All protective eyewear products are tested in accordance with these directives through exposure to different dangers associated with damage to the eyes and impaired vision. All customized protective eyewear with coated lenses is labeled K or N accordingly.
What do the K and N labels mean?
- ‘K’ labeling
K labeled products feature a high degree of scratch-resistance in environments littered with dirt and dust. If safety eyewear is labeled K, the lenses have been certified as resistant to damage from small particles like sand and as have a light density coefficient of less than 5.
K labeled protective eyewear are ideal for the following environments:
- Steel and other metal industries
- Mining
- Construction and Building industry
- Machine cutting
These safety glasses offer protection against minute physical threats against the eyes.
- ‘N’ labeling
N labeled protective products are suitable for working environments with high humidity and frequent condensation taking place. If safety eyewear is labeled N, the lenses have been certified as resistant to fogging and will remain fog-free for at least 8 seconds, even after being immersed in water.
K labeled protective eyewear are ideal for the following environments:
- Paper industry
- Textile industry
- Food processing
- Refrigerated warehouses
The Uvex Strategy Goggles
The Uvex Strategy goggle is the only affordable over-the-glass (OTG) protective eyewear that delivers both maximum protection and premium comfort. It combines powerful, innovative, face-hugging material and a rugged design to withstand even the harshest of environments.
Uvex Strategy Goggles Key Features
In addition to providing eye protection, the Uvex Strategy goggle also provides peace of mind and total comfort making them the ideal goggles that industrial workers will desire to wear. General features of the Uvex Strategy Goggles include:
- Lightweight, TPE body for exceptional comfort and a snug fit
- 4 models available depending on work applications i.e., closed vent, direct vent, indirect vent and indirect vent with foam lining for protection against fine particles
- Anti-fog coating to minimize fogging
- Fabric or neoprene headband for chemical applications
- Fits over most prescription glasses
Recommended Industrial Use for the Uvex Strategy Goggles
- Oil, Gas, and Chemical
- Building and Construction
- Food Production and Services
- Mining
- Logging
- Municipal Services
- Steel and Metals
- Pharmaceutical
- Transportation
- Utilities
Hazard Protection
- Chemical
- Airborne Particulates
- Biohazard
- Splash
- Abrasion
- Impact
How To Choose The Right Workplace Safety Gloves For Your Industry April 27 2018
Workplace gloves are a must. Period. But not all workplace gloves are good for your industry. Buying the right workplace gloves will5 Personal Protective Equipment That Can Save You From Your Job April 23 2018
Like it or not all jobs come with life threatening hazards. You either have personal protective equipment to protect yourself or you stand the risk of being a victim of job hazards.
No, no one is trying to scare you. Instead, it is to remind you that even if your job only involves moving files, you should at least get yourself gloves or ask your employer to do so.
That’s the smart employee’s way to work.
Here are 5 must-have personal protective equipment that can save you from your job’s hazards:
- Buy the right gloves
Your hands and fingers are often injured, so it is vital to protect them properly. Depending on the sector you work in, you can choose from gloves for different applications:
- protection against vibrations
- protection against cuts by sharp materials
- protection against cold or heat
- protection against bacteriological risks
- protection against splashes from diluted chemicals.
- Get yourself head and eye protection
Helmet is the most common head protection as it can prevent head injuries. But there are different types of helmets.
Select a sturdy helmet that is adapted to the working conditions. These days you can find many elegant designs and you can choose extra options such as a helmet with a face shield.
But don’t forget to protect your eyes. Each day, more than 600 people worldwide sustain eye injuries during their work. Thanks to a good pair of safety glasses, these injuries could be prevented.
- Protect your hearing
Do you work in an environment with high sound levels? In that case it is very important to consider hearing protection.
A lot of workers and employers often oversee the importance of hearing protection when purchasing safety equipment and this proves to be costly to many.
Without proper safety hearing equipment in noisy workplaces, one risks suffering from ear damage or impaired hearing resulting from damage to important parts of the ear.
Earplugs are very comfortable, but earmuffs are convenient on the work floor as you can quickly put these on or take them off.
- Protect your breathing
A lot of employees inhale vapors, smoke, powder or dusk while performing their job. That’s why it is strongly recommended that you wear a protective mask.
We get it, wearing a mask at work is no luxury, definitely not when coming into contact with hazardous materials.
Air purifying masks offer protection against fine dust and other dangerous particles. If the materials are truly toxic, use a full-face mask. This adheres tightly to the face, to protect the nose and mouth against harmful pollution.
- Protect your body and feet
Preventing accidents is crucial in a crowded workshop. That is why a good visibility at work is a must: a high-visibility jacket and pants made of a strong fabric can help prevent accidents. Just like the hand protection, there are versions for different applications
Your feet also needs protection. There are different types of protective equipment for your feet.
Spotlight on: Radnor Auto Darkening Welding Lenses April 16 2018
As a welder, there are many safety precautions you need to take to ensure you are staying careful on the job. Since you are dealing with heat, wearing protective gloves and other clothing will be crucial to preventing the heat and fire from affecting you.
One of the most important things that may be overlooked are your eyes. Welding leads to extremely bright light glares that can cause permanent eye damage.
There are plenty of traditional welding lenses where the eye shade is a fixed color and darkness. These are a great fit for when you are welding one thing for a long time straight.
However, these can become frustrating fast if you are welding many things for a short period of time. If that’s the case, you’d have to keep removing your lens to reposition and this will become very time consuming very fast. In fact, if a welder were to offer one piece of advice to new welders it would be to invest in an auto darkening welding lens as soon as possible.
So what is an auto darkening welding lens? An auto darkening lens detects brightness and instantly changes the amount of shade so that your eyes are protected, while making the workspace still visible. Additionally, when the flame is down and the brightness subsides, the lens will adjust in real time to let you see out of it. This lets you adjust what you are working on with ease.
The most common objection to investing in an auto darkening welding lens is that they cost noticeably more than a traditional shade. You should definitely weigh the value of how much time this will save you.
The best product auto darkening welding lenses we stock are from Radnor. They work with fixed front and lift front helmets so whatever your needs, this is going to fit great. They work best for general purpose welding and are affordably priced at $99.
Here are a few tips about auto darkening welding lenses:
If the filter isn’t detecting your arc, adjust the sensitivity rating until it does.
Make sure the filter is rated for the amperage range you are working at.
Make sure the filters are not covered by dirt or debris, as this will cause them to malfunction.
Remember that these units are electronic and should be stored in a place that will remain dry.
Finally, don’t forget to replace the batteries. Without the juice, the helmets can’t sense and adjust.
The Ultimate Guide to Buying Personal Protective Equipment for Your Employees March 30 2018
Getting the right employee Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is not a commonly talked about topic - but it is crucial when your workplace poses potential hazards to your staff.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), companies in the U.S lost over $500 million dollars to treat employee hand injuries alone in one year.
In fact, 1 million hospital emergency visits by U.S. workers per year could be avoided if employees, from medical to industrial and everything in between, would just wear PPE.
Not only does the company save more from buying PPE, it also reassures the employee that they won’t let them become a statistic.
The result? High employee engagement, which brings high productivity and ensures overall workplace safety.
What do I need to know before deciding to buy protective clothing for my employees?
From eye and face protectors to hearing, hand and general body protectors, PPE is to employees what body armor, boots, helmets are to the brave soldiers on the frontlines.
Or would you rather send your employees to the frontlines daily without…
Body protectors like high quality lab coats and
What type of boss would that make you?
When shopping for protective clothing for your employees, you need to pay special attention to both durable and comfortable PPE.
You want to make sure you get them high quality functional products that not only guarantee safety when working but are comfortable enough to work in.
Employees need to be sure that when they put their feet on the ground to work their insoles are relaxed, their footwear is anti-slip and that their toes are protected by comfy steel toe boots.
That said, here are top things to consider when choosing personal protective equipment
Now that you’re absolutely convinced you need to get PPE for your employees, let’s guide you on how to choose exactly what to get from the large number of PPE options.
1. Evaluate your workplace hazard
Different companies require different types of PPE per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.
You’ll have to detail every source of potential hazards in the work area. The result of the assessment will serve as a pointer to the right PPE.
For instance, if our employees are in constant contact with flying objects, falling debris, dust, laser beams sparks, very bright lights and chemicals,
These include goggles with side shields, laser eye wear, full-face visors, and respirators that prevent dust, fumes, and biological agents from going into the eyes and lungs. So you definitely need to get eye protection for your employees!
2. Buy quality and super comfortable PPE
PPE is not something to skimp on.
Though PPE
For instance, unadjusted outfits and inappropriate boots may lead to bodily damage such as broken bones or sprained wrist and ankles.
So it is important to buy quality, lightweight, fully breathable PPE that fits properly.
3. Don’t forget to buy the indispensable PPE
Many employers overlook the importance of hand protectors, hearing protection, and footwear when purchasing safety equipment and this can lead to more costly problems down the line.
First, hand injuries are some of the most prominent injuries in industrial workplaces reason high-quality gloves made from different materials are a must.
For instance, if you’re into rebar, metal fabrication, construction, automotive assembly, glass handling, and steel manufacturing then the 15 gauge black polyester glove will work wonders.
Second, without proper safety hearing equipment in noisy workplaces, employees risks suffering from ear damage or impaired hearing resulting from damage to important parts of the ear.
For instance, employees exposed to noisy workplaces without proper safety equipment, tend to experience tinnitus. This is the ringing sensation and buzzing sound in ears even when there is no noise around. It affects their concentration and eventually their productivity drops.
So it is important to invest in quality-hearing protection equipment like ear muffs or ear plug that are effective and extremely comfortable to work with.
And third, without proper footwear employees risk getting injuries and sore feet at the end of the day, especially if the job require a lot of working on their feet. Whether it is PVC boots, Bata, Polyblend boot or studs, PPE footwear are essential.
That’s why it is best to always go for a range of
One final thing… Why it’s important to invest in best sensors and other equipment for warning employees about potential hazard.
In your workplace, leakages and abnormalities are expected.
Worst of all they are highly unpredictable which make it extremely difficult to detect them as soon as they occur.
This is why it is a must to invest in the best monitoring devices and sensors to warn employees in case of a leakage or an emergency.
BRW offers a wide range of monitors and calibration equipment for different industries--from gas detectors, bio-systems calibrators, sound detectors and to air monitoring systems.
Hearing Protection: Disposable Earplugs March 23 2018
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) hearing loss is one of the most common work-related illnesses in the U.S. In fact, 23% of workers who are regularly exposed to hazardous noise levels while at work experience hearing difficulty including tinnitus. Tinnitus is a symptom of an underlying condition such as ear injury and involves the annoying feeling of hearing ringing or buzzing noises in one or both ears even when there are no outside sounds is present.
The exposure to loud noise such as those from heavy equipment from construction sites is a common source of noise-related hearing loss. People who work in noisy environments such as factory and construction workers are particularly at risk of prolonged exposure to loud noise that often causes damage to the tiny sensory hair cells in their ears that transmit sound to the brain. Noise-related hearing damages such as tinnitus can significantly affect a worker’s quality of life to a point where they experience extreme fatigue, anxiety, and irritability, sleep deprivation, concentration problems, stress or depression.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, permissible exposure limit to noise levels, is about 90 A-weighted decibels (dBA) for 8 hours. Therefore, taking certain precautions by wearing hearing protection such as disposable earplugs while working around noisy areas or machines for more than eight hours can minimize noise-related hearing loss.
Disposable earplugs come in various shapes and designs, therefore, they must be worn correctly and fit properly for them to do the job effectively. Also known as sound plugs, disposable earplugs should be able to prevent noises louder than 85 decibels and should be worn by workers who are around any loud environmental noise, such as when working around industrial machinery, power tools, or harmful noise levels as recommended by OSHA.
Among the different types of noise plugs, such as custom noise plugs which are purchased through a hearing healthcare professional, as well as earmuffs, for those working in extremely loud environments such as with aircraft engines or heavy machinery, and reusable noise plugs that come either corded or non-corded, disposable earplugs are generally made of a foam material, however, they must be discarded after each use.
The consequences of not safeguarding your hearing by having the correct PPE-approved hearing protection in a noisy work environment are quite obvious. All employers must, therefore, consider the level of noise that needs to be kept out when choosing the right hearing protection for their specific industry. Depending on the length of exposure, sounds of 90 dB and higher are harmful, whereby, the Noise Reduction Rating (NNR) for earplugs is between 22 and 33 dB, which means that disposable earplugs offer superior hearing protection as compared to regular ear muffs whose NNR is between 20 and 30 decibels.
While disposable earplugs are small, portable, can be used in combination with other hearing protection devices, and are convenient in small spaces, they may, on the other hand, irritate the ear canal and can harbor bacteria.
All You Need to Know About Vinyl Aprons March 16 2018
The primary role of personal protective equipment is to protect workers against any health, risk and unnecessary injury in the workplace. Vinyl aprons are important pieces of personal protective equipment that play a vital role in protecting individuals who work in various industries such as welding, gardening, janitorial services, the food service industry, meat processing industries, hospitals, as well as those who work near open flames or handle toxic chemicals.One main characteristic of vinyl aprons is that they are easily cleaned and maintained by simply wiping them off with a clean rug. Depending on what you need them for, vinyl aprons also come in different sizes, some that are knee length while others go all the way to the feet with varying thicknesses that range from 6 mil to 35 mil.
As the second largest-selling and most versatile material, vinyl is used in hundreds of consumer and industrial products because it can be recycled into new applications lasting decades more or more. Vinyl has also become one of the most widely used materials in part because of its cost efficiencies, its performance and its resistance to high electrical voltage. Vinyl materials are characteristically flame-retardant due to their chlorine base. They also do not ignite easily, and most will not continue to burn once a flame or heat source is removed. Vinyl can be produced in almost any color, with end products ranging from opaque to crystal-clear.
High-quality 6mil vinyl aprons are excellent in food processing and are resistant to oils, chemicals, solvents, acids, alkalies, fats, grease, and salt. The exterior coating provides excellent protection against saturation, they are also mildew and flame-resistant, which means an apron of this caliber will withstand the harshest of work environments and will not wear and tear unlike other types of apron material.
Vinyl aprons also have adjustable neck strap and back ties for a perfect fit, which also makes them ideal in protecting your clothes from unwanted fluids, dirt, and grime that you would get when handling or grooming animals. Dishwasher vinyl aprons come in full-length designs that extend past the knees to protect clothing and skin when exposed to build-up on pots, equipment dirt and debris, grease, and chemicals. They are ideal for commercial kitchens because not only are they water-resistant, they are also heat-resistant, fire retardant, and cut-resistant.
The many benefits of vinyl aprons are not limited to durability. They also offer excellent chemical resistance and the added protection against snags and punctures. Thus making this material much stronger than polyethylene and unlike other aprons, vinyl aprons provide full body protection against chemical spills or contact with hazardous substances making them ideal for situations where flexibility and ease of use are required, and durability is equally important.
The type of apron required for workers largely depends on the degree of risk or the potential contact with harmful substances. Vinyl aprons are perfect for chemical processing, food handling, and processing, food service, etc. because they protect the wearer from punctures, abrasions, and exposure.
Your Guide to Hard Hats March 02 2018
It is the duty of all staff members working including managers and supervisors to adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines of wearing protective gear at all times, especially when a risk assessment has been carried out, and individual safety is deemed necessary.
Hard hats are important personal protective equipment (PPE) required to be worn by individuals who work in areas where there is a potential risk for head injury from falling objects as well as those who work with or near exposed electrical conductors that could contact the head. A hard hat must always be worn provided there’s a risk of head injury due to falling objects, debris, electricity, bad weather, including hitting ones’ head into or against other hard objects around an industrial or construction site.
Hard hats were originally made from steel in the 1930s, fiberglass in the 1940s and then thermoplastic material in the 50’s. Today, modern hard hats are predominantly made from a material called High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) while others are made from a heavy-duty fiberglass material mainly for use in steel mills and in industries where high temperatures are common.
While the manufacture of aluminum hard hats was discontinued years ago, some industries that deal with water drilling, boat construction, logging industries, oil well firefighting, heavy equipment operators, safety inspectors, and the demolition industry still use them. OSHA has explicit requirements for head protection in the workplace, and has two standards that govern hard hat requirements:
- Those that must be worn by general industry workers
- Those that must be worn by construction, demolition and renovation workers
According to the hard hat classification, Class G is a general hard hat that provides protection from electrical hazards of about 2,200 volts, Class E is an electrical hard hat rated for 20,000 volts, and Class C is a conductive hard hat that does not offer any protection from electrical hazards. In order for all hard hats to meet the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), they must have the manufacturer’s name, size range for fitting, and date of manufacture information indicated clearly on the inside of the hat.
Each hard hat must also have the ANSI standard that it conforms with including the class designation (G, E, or C) as well as the ANSI type, defined by the area of the head that is protected – either the top of the head or the top and sides of the head. There should also be two arrows that indicate when the helmet can be worn forwards or backward. Each hard hat should also provide protection at low temperatures 22 °F (-30 °C) and meet all high visibility requirements.
Some hard hats have slots that are designed to accommodate safety glasses, face shields, mounted lights, or earmuffs and feature either a ratchet suspension with a quick ratchet-adjusting knob or a Pin-lock suspension that adjusts to the head with a locking mechanism. Materials such as foam-backed cotton or vinyl, terry cloth, or specialty fibers are used for browpadsYour Guide to Hard Hats March 02 2018
It is the duty of all staff members working including managers and supervisors to adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines of wearing protective gear at all times, especially when a risk assessment has been carried out, and individual safety is deemed necessary.
Hard hats are important personal protective equipment (PPE) required to be worn by individuals who work in areas where there is a potential risk for head injury from falling objects as well as those who work with or near exposed electrical conductors that could contact the head. A hard hat must always be worn provided there’s a risk of head injury due to falling objects, debris, electricity, bad weather, including hitting ones’ head into or against other hard objects around an industrial or construction site.
Hard hats were originally made from steel in the 1930s, fiberglass in the 1940s and then thermoplastic material in the 50’s. Today, modern hard hats are predominantly made from a material called High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) while others are made from a heavy-duty fiberglass material mainly for use in steel mills and in industries where high temperatures are common.
While the manufacture of aluminum hard hats was discontinued years ago, some industries that deal with water drilling, boat construction, logging industries, oil well firefighting, heavy equipment operators, safety inspectors, and the demolition industry still use them. OSHA has explicit requirements for head protection in the workplace, and has two standards that govern hard hat requirements:
- Those that must be worn by general industry workers
- Those that must be worn by construction, demolition and renovation workers
According to the hard hat classification, Class G is a general hard hat that provides protection from electrical hazards of about 2,200 volts, Class E is an electrical hard hat rated for 20,000 volts, and Class C is a conductive hard hat that does not offer any protection from electrical hazards. In order for all hard hats to meet the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), they must have the manufacturer’s name, size range for fitting, and date of manufacture information indicated clearly on the inside of the hat.
Each hard hat must also have the ANSI standard that it conforms with including the class designation (G, E, or C) as well as the ANSI type, defined by the area of the head that is protected – either the top of the head or the top and sides of the head. There should also be two arrows that indicate when the helmet can be worn forwards or backward. Each hard hat should also provide protection at low temperatures 22 °F (-30 °C) and meet all high visibility requirements.
Some hard hats have slots that are designed to accommodate safety glasses, face shields, mounted lights, or earmuffs and feature either a ratchet suspension with a quick ratchet-adjusting knob or a Pin-lock suspension that adjusts to the head with a locking mechanism. Materials such as foam-backed cotton or vinyl, terry cloth, or specialty fibers are used for browpadsHead Protection In The Workplace February 19 2018
Head Protection In The Workplace
There are many ways in which a worker can sustain a head injury within the workplace some of which can have devastating consequences. While some slip and fall accidents are often quite easy to avoid by keeping the work area free of water or chemical spills, accidents caused by defective equipment, those incurred when operating heavy machinery, or from falling object can be hard to detect.
Head injuries can be fatal and may affect an individual’s ability to work for the rest of their natural life. However, when important, yet often ignored, safety measures are regularly observed, such as wearing a hard hat for head protection, may avert millions of the nonfatal workplace injuries that workers experience each year.
Under Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) head protection regulation, employers are required to provide hard hats for employees who work near exposed electrical conductors that may contact the head to decrease the risk of electrical shock. Workers must also wear head protection gear when working in places where they can easily bump their head, such as when working near exposed pipes, around conveyor belts or other machinery that may cause objects to dislodge and fall including working at heights.
Head protection helmets must satisfy the requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and must comply with the following Protective Headwear for Industrial Workers standards:
- Hard hats must safely absorb the shock of a falling object
- It must prevent an object from penetrating it
- It must fit a worker’s head properly
- It must be water resistant
- It must burn slowly when in contact with fire
Failure to adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) standards can lead to a gamut of costly violation by a company and that of a worker. Such violations have seen many businesses face a number of penalties and various costs that can add up pretty fast. A violation that results in death or bodily harm is one of the most serious of all OSHA offenses, and an offender can be slapped with a mandatory penalty of up to the thousands.
There are many ways that a business can stay in Occupational Safety and Health Administration compliance. One simple way is to ensure that each worker is wearing the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times. Employers should also ensure that their workers stay up to date with OSHA education and training and make sure that such educational material is readily and regularly available to everyone within the organization.
Such training programs offer a wide range of services to businesses such as, webinars, on-site training, consultation assistance, including providing free resources for employers who want to create and maintain a safe workplace.
Every worker must, therefore, ensure that they are wearing the right PPE at all times, especially head protection where there is a potential for objects falling from above or accidental head contact with electrical hazards so as to minimize injuries to themselves and those around them.
Disposable Respirators February 12 2018
Also known as face masks, disposable respirators are examples of personal protective equipment that are made from filter material designed to protect workers from inhaling liquid or airborne particles created during construction, cleaning, grinding, including during surgical or medical procedures, as well as potential contaminants in the immediate environment. According to the National Institute for Occupation Safety and Health (NIOSH), the N95, N99, and N100 disposable respirators are the most ideal, if not the most popular and approved face masks.
As the name would suggest, disposable respirators are not intended to be used more than once, but instead, they should be disposed of safely the minute breathing through the mask becomes difficult or once they are damaged and dirty. Employees, including the public need to wear respirators whenever harmful dust, smokes, mists, fumes, gases, vapors, sprays, or toxic substances are present in the environment or community settings, which may pose a health hazard such as lung impairment, cancer, N1H1 flu, or other respiratory diseases.
The Center for Disease Control also recommends the use of disposable respirators for medical personnel who are in constant contact with patients who have airborne infectious diseases. Employees who are exposed to dangerous vapors or gases while working in chemical manufacturing industries are implored to wear disposable respirators because long-term contact with such toxic chemicals can lead to irreparable health damages and illnesses. While it would be next to impossible to control or prevent exposure from airborne contaminants during various construction, maintenance, and repair operations, exposure to a harmful substance such as asbestos can be minimized by wearing disposable respirators.
The asbestos disease starts with the inhalation of asbestos fibers where most problems such as lung scarring, genetic mutations, and cancer arise after repeated and long-term exposures to the carcinogen. Exposure can occur while living near job sites or contaminated environments, using asbestos-containing products or working in certain occupations which includes roofers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, firefighters, auto mechanics, as well as insulators, and factory workers too.
While anyone can wear a disposable respirator that is certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), however, caution should be exercised, especially for people with pre-existing medical conditions that make breathing difficult. Such conditions include emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, etc. Such people should check with their doctor first before wearing a mask as it is known to make breathing more difficult and patients report experiencing dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
There are some N95 respirators that have exhalation valves that can make breathing easier and help reduce heat build-up when used by such patients or in construction work, these models should, however, not be used in cases where sterile conditions must be maintained such as hospitals. Disposable respirators are designed to cover both the nose and mouth to keep you from breathing in mold, dust or other airborne and harmful substances. Therefore, a mask should have a snug fit and come in complete contact with your skin for it to work effectively.
Cut Protection Gloves February 05 2018
Safety gloves are one of the most important, yet habitually overlooked, tools in personal protective gear. All safety gloves are designed with a specific hazard in mind, therefore, wearing the correct safety gloves can be helpful in averting a variety of workplace injuries, such as serious cuts, punctures, burns, abrasion hazards, and much more.
Cut protection gloves or cut-resistant gloves provide your hands with reliable protection against workplace hazards, especially for those who work with dangerous blades, knives, metal parts and sharp objects. For this reason, they must meet a few design guidelines, including providing the highest level of cut resistance according to CE Standards EN388 Testing
- They must be made from strong materials such as Dyneema or Kevlar, or from a combination of these and other cut-resistant materials
- They should allow lubrication to allow a blade or knife to slide over the surface. Therefore, they should be woven in high-strength synthetic yarn such as Spectra or Dyneema
- They should have a Nitrile palm coating which channels oil and liquids away from the surface of the gloves
- They should be puncture resistant and provide a rolling action that prevents a blade from penetration
- Resistant to tear and abrasion
- They should also come in different materials and features to choose from for your specific needs
The first thing you must consider before buying cut resistance gloves is to determine the level of cut resistance you need according to the ASTM and EN388 rating systems. Once you have done this, you can proceed to choose the cut resistance glove style that suits your needs, of which there is palm coated gloves, leather gloves with cut resistance liner, metal mesh gloves, or string knit gloves.
You require palm coated cut protection gloves if you work in wet and oily conditions such as a mechanic or you work in conditions that expose you to sharp splinters or glass shards such as roofing, metal stamping, construction and general purpose. The palm coating is what provides a good barrier by offering better grip, dexterity, increased abrasion resistance, puncture resistance, and durability.
Nitrile coated gloves offer first-rate puncture and tear resistance, they perform well in a range of temperatures, and they can be designed using a Micropore technology that ensures that they absorb oil, while keeping it from penetrating to the hands.
Leather gloves with cut resistance liner are ideal for handling metal as the gloves are abrasion resistant and offer better grip when working with oily or rough surfaces. String knit gloves are great to have when handling metal stamping or while working with glass products. These gloves are made from lightweight material that provide a superior added protection while keeping your hands sweat-free.
Metal mesh cut protection gloves provide advanced cut and puncture resistance as they are composed of interlocked 100% stainless steel mesh. They are very durable and ideal for high-risk kitchen applications, meat or poultry factories, butcher shops, including other industries that utilize extremely sharp cutting tools.
Why you Needs A Nitrile Coated Glove January 12 2018
A person who needs a nitrile coated glove is probably facing a latex allergy. These gloves are commonly used in the food industry or for persons handling medical substances. The gloves provide a higher level of protection compared to other gloves in the industry. Their protection is also specific because it cannot be guaranteed by ordinary gloves. They are a high quality option when you need advanced protection.
There are different glove options in the market that you are likely to get confused. The following expert opinion seeks to provide tips on ensuring that your choice of gloves fits the intended purpose. This is your comprehensive guide on choosing the best gloves for you.
Why You Should Choose Coated Gloves
Coated gloves come with a coating that extends coverage to your entire arm including the five fingers. This is an added level of protection enhancing protection against cuts, abrasions, and snags. It also ensures protection against contact with chemicals, oils and such substances that might hinder your operations or cause skin damage.
Coated gloves also offer an enhanced level of dexterity. Your grip will also be firm and the gloves will last a reasonably longer time than ordinary latex gloves. This also ensures that your top arm can breathe and remain comfortable to perform all the duties you are required to perform.
The nitrile coated glove is a preference for most employees and employers because of more reasons than the level of protection it provides. Its preference can especially be noted in the general assembly, painting, mechanics and painting industries. The coating provides a comfortable and guaranteed protection between your work and hand. This does not deny you the dexterity that you would experience if you are using bare hands. This explains why some of the most engaging industries prefer this glove.
Past gloves that could handle the level of work being handled by the nitrile gloves were made of leather. You could also find other extremely cumbersome materials being used in manufacture of such gloves. The feel was not comfortable and the wearer was denied basic dexterity. These problems have been solved by the nitrile gloves leading to their growing popularity. They guarantee comfort and safety while at work as if you are working with bare hands.
Thickness And Protection
There is a direct relationship between thickness and the kind of protection you get from your gloves. This makes it one of the considerations when buying gloves. The possibility of chemicals sipping through the glove or a sharp object getting to your hand depends on the thickness. Nitrile gloves are enhanced by being dipped several times into the coating solution. This ensures that the thickness is appropriate and comfortable enough to enable you still fulfill your obligations. This enables them to maintain a thin feel without exposing you to harm.
The manner of handling gloves and sticking to safety rules set for your industry will determine whether you remain safe at work. The best quality nitrile coated glove will only protect you if you take precautions. This glove gives you comfort as you work and still enables you to maintain dexterity.
Fresh Expert Directions On Buying Safety Glasses January 12 2018
The eye is one of the most delicate organs in your body that once lost cannot be replaced. It is therefore only prudent for workers in environments where there is exposure to seek protection at all cost. One of the best ways to protect your eyes is by getting safety glasses. However, the effectiveness of these glasses depends on whether you have made the right choice. Here is a simple criterion by experts on how to choose the right glasses to protect your eyes.
What danger are you exposed to?
Each work environment exposes you to different hazards. To adequately protect your eyes, you need to understand the danger you will be facing. There are different types of risks that you are exposed to in work environments.
- Mechanical risks- these are risks emanating from tools or machines that would generate particles. The particles are likely to hit the cornea leading to injuries.
- Radiations- the radiations range from visible light that emanates during welding to UV radiations that cannot be detected. Such radiations would lead to acute eye injury.
- Temperature- the risks arise from hot liquids to intense heat and intense heat radiations.
- Chemical exposure- chemical splashes, gas, liquids and dust are some of the dangers you are exposed to.
Know The Types Of Lens Materials And Glasses Required
Different materials are suited for a variety of environments and offer varying degrees of protection. Generally, there are two categories of glasses used to protect eyes. There are safety goggles and safety glasses. Some are deigned for objects while others are designed for heat and light. Polycarbonate is a good material because of its light weight and ability to protect you from UV light. However, you might have challenges with clarity. Trivex or polyurethane offers excellent optical clarity but it might pass as being too expensive. Acrylic is rather affordable, light and resistant to solvents. However, it is not durable and has clarity issues. You may also settle for optical glasses that are resistant to scratches and vision distortion but come with heavy lenses that are expensive and perform poor in case of an impact.
Personal Preference Should Be Considered
While personal preferences are important, they must not override the functionality of your glasses. Some of the personal preference options to consider include lens coating, tint, safety prescriptions and comfort of design.
There are other cautions that experts think you should consider to guarantee safety.
- While the glasses protect you from substance exposure, they must not restrict your movement because this might lead you into more danger.
- The glasses must fit comfortably and allow you to work freely. Glasses that fall or come off will cause instability and lead to work related hazards.
- Compatibility with other personal safety equipment- they must fit within such equipment as the helmet and mask. Exposing other parts of the body will be equally dangerous.
For people with corrective glasses, you need to consult your eye specialist to prevent one lens from interfering with the other. The safety glasses you choose must also meet the standards set by regulators. Any slight compromise would be disastrous.
Approved Safety Goggles Care And Maintenance Tips January 05 2018
Safety goggles are delicate and expensive. Any blunder with care or maintenance will reduce the effectiveness of these lenses. This will expose you to work place disasters that might change the course of your life. Even when the damage is not extreme, it is expensive to replace the goggles such that you would rather take proper care of these valuable pieces.
While goggles are delicate, they require simple and ordinary maintenance attention to keep them in perfect shape. Fortunately, each pair of goggles will come with unique instructions on how to take care of them. The instructions provided are easy to follow and will deliver excellent results. That not withstanding, it is not always that you have the manual. Here are tips that will ensure that your goggles are safe to use and last long.
- Daily Cleaning- this requires simple actions like removing debris from the surface, rinsing the glasses in cool water and drying them with an approved soft cloth. The dust may even be removed by spraying with a can of compressed air. This removes any dust particles and debris that may be stuck on the surface. When the debris is left on the surface, it hinders effective working and may even damage the lenses.
- Regularly use approved lens cleaners- cool water is the most common solution when cleaning lenses. However, it does not eliminate all the dirt on the surface. This is why the use of approved lens cleaners is recommended. It works on the debris and residue that is impossible to remove using ordinary water. The use of soap is not recommended because it leaves your lenses with residue that may damage the lens or block vision.
- Clean the ear pieces and the sides- surprisingly, these areas are usually ignored when cleaning goggles. It will surprise you the amount of grime that these areas harbor. When allowed to stay, it will migrate to the lens and cause more problems. The manufacturer provides instructions on the methods to be used in cleaning these sections based on the materials used in manufacture.
- Rough and abrasive cleaners should be avoided- the lens is so delicate such that any scratch on the surface will render it impossible to use. This is why manufacturers recommend the use of a soft cloth and other specific cleaning substances. This ensures that the goggles will serve you for a reasonably long time and therefore deliver excellent value for money.
- Storage- continued use of goggles and their prolonged life depends on how well you handle your goggles. A microfiber porch or a hard case is the recommended place to store your goggles. The porch is usually lined with a soft cleaning cloth. This will protect them from damage by falling objects or scratches in the course of storage.
To keep your safety goggles secure, manufacturer instructions must be followed. Inspect them on regular bases to ensure that they are repaired or cleaned and thus prevent the escalation of damage. Where the environment demands, use the retention straps. This will ensure that they are always available on demand.
Buying Guide For The Best Painter's Hoods December 22 2017
A painter should be adequately protected when coloring surfaces. Beyond the use of an apron and gloves, the painter's hoods form part of clothes that guarantee protection. They protect your face and also ensure that you do not breathe the vapor or fumes from the paint.
There are numerous hoods in the market that it becomes confusing to choose the right one for you. However, there is a criterion you can use to ensure that you get a hood that serves its purpose. Here is a look at some of the factors to consider.
- Right Size
Hoods come in different sizes. This is aimed at ensuring that they fit the head. A hood that does not fit will also not serve its purpose. The size of the hood should be in line with your head. Though they stretch, hoods should not be too tight to the point of suffocating the user. They should also not be too loose that they fail to cover the intended parts of the head or face. A hood that is too loose will block your vision. If the hood is too tight, your motions will be hindered leading to discomfort.
- Recommended Material
Hoods are made of different materials. You might be comfortable with one material and not the other. This will depend on your skin type. For instance, some materials will feel sensitive because your skin is dry. For sensitive skins, you need a material that does not irritate. The label on painter's hoods will indicate the type of material used in manufacture. If the hood is uncomfortable, it will distract you from your work.
- Price
Hoods come at different prices based on a number of factors. Size is a significant determinant of the price such that large hoods are more expensive than small sized hoods. Other factors to consider include the material used and the presence of enhancement features like eye and nose slots. While it is important to focus on the price, it must not be at the expense of quality. This may spell danger when it is time to use the hood.
- Adequate Protection
The hood must adequately cover areas that are exposed to spilling paint. This includes the face and the neck as well as ears. Though it provides protection, it must not be at the expense of you conducting your work freely. This also calls for a hood that does not soak in the paint when it falls on the surface.
- Durability
It is expensive and unsettling to replace the hood on daily basis. This will also mean dealing with the discomfort of a new hood often. Pick a hood that is durable. This requires consideration of material used and how easy it is for you to maintain the hood. You will have to pay the price for a durable hood.
The best painter's hoods are those sourced from reputable brands. Their quality has already been ascertained and you have a guarantee that you will get value for money. Choose the right hood for your situation to ensure that you enjoy excellent value for money.
The Best Water Resistant Coveralls In The Market December 15 2017
Coveralls are designed to protect you from spills and any flying substances at your place of work. The need for water resistant coveralls means that you will be working with substances that are water related. The use of coveralls means that you do not have to worry about stains getting to your ordinary cloths. The coveralls do not get stained by the substances that spill because they do not stick. This saves you from the hustle of washing your work clothes every so often.
With a coverall, you are comfortable at work because your entire body is covered and therefore protected from spills. This increases your speed, comfort and confidence as you work. They effectively stretch over gloves and gumboots, providing the adequate level of protection you require. With the addition of a matching hood and elastic enclosure for your face, you are guaranteed adequate protection at work.
With a variety of coveralls in the market, here are features you should lookout for in order to get the best coveralls in the market.
- Water Resistant- water resistance is not strictly about water. It also covers substances or liquids that are water based. Ensure that the coverall does not soak in water or such substances. This allows you to work outdoors during rainy seasons and thus meet your obligations without fear of soaking in the rain. Read reviews or get a recommendation for the best water resistant coveralls to avoid buyer remorse.
- Right Fit- the coverall must fit you perfectly for it to effectively protect you from water or other spills. Leaving any areas exposed means that the garments beneath will be exposed to water or the substances you are attempting to get protection from. If the coverall is too loose, some areas will also be exposed.
- Light In Weight- coveralls are worn over other work or personal cloths. It will therefore be a heavy burden to add other cloths on top such that you are unable to work. Weight is a source of comfort at work and must therefore be handled with caution. Choose light weight coveralls that do not prevent you from working normally.
- Protection Against Other Substances- while the coveralls are supposed to be water resistant, there are environments where such water may be combined with other substances. The coveralls must also protect you from heat that may come with the water. This means considering the overall environment before choosing the coverall to buy.
- Comfortable On The Skin- all materials worn on the body should feel comfortable to the skin. This protects you from irritation or discomfort as you work, which would escalate your exposure to danger.
Water resistant coveralls will only protect you if you make the right choices. Ensure that it meets the approved protection standards before buying. It should also be durable in order to guarantee excellent value for money. Read reviews and get recommendations to ensure that you get the best coverall. Remember that it must provide protection that is specific to your work environment. Price is an important consideration but it must never exceed the need to be protected.
Care Tips For Safety Vests To Make The Last Long December 01 2017
To an ordinary person, high visibility cloths appear like a bother. However, workers in areas that experience traffic or with moving machinery will appreciate the role they play in keeping them safe. Safety vests come in such luminous colors as orange, yellow and lime green. It is a requirement that workers in areas where they are vulnerable should always have the vests on. They are especially important in areas where machine operators or drivers might have visibility challenges or have a short reaction time.
Putting on the vests is one thing while the vest serving its purpose is another. They can only serve the intended purpose when they are properly maintained. Here are care tips that will ensure that these vests serve their purpose.
- Make sure they fit- a vest that is too tight will be uncomfortable. If the vest is too loose, it will distract you from work. In fact, the vest might get caught in moving machines, leading to more danger. Instead of offering safety, the vests become a hazard to you. When the vests are fitted correctly, they are safer to use and also comfortable to the wearer.
- Follow care label instructions- professionally prepared vests have care labels with instructions on maintenance and how to handle the vests. The instructions include how many times it should be washed and the procedure to follow. Remember that your vest must maintain its visibility properties. Failure to maintain the required standards will make the vest unsafe for use.
- Right vest for the job- all vests are not manufactured equally. Some are for enhancing visibility over a distance while others are for use in dim light. There are safety vests that can catch fire if used near sparks while others cannot handle the heat. In fact, the label with instructions will indicate the areas you can use a particular vest. Follow the instructions to ensure safety. Engage a safety consultant to get the right vest for the job at hand.
- Know when to get another one- though the vests are used for light duties, they also wear out. Know when to let the vest go and buy another one. The vests are likely to be damaged by washing, exposure to the sun, or even ordinary wear and tear. Be ready and willing to replace the vest. Allowing the vest to still be used despite wearing out exposes the user to danger. Faded, torn and even inappropriately sized vests should be replaced immediately.
The industry has not provided vests for women yet. There nature of these vests is that they are unisex and can thus be worn by both genders. What a female worker needs to do is get a vest that fits. There is a variety of choices available for women. Choose one that is appropriate for your work.
Safety vests must form a constant part of your work place dressing. Purchase the right material and size to guarantee the safety of wearers. When the vest has served its time, be ready to let go and acquire a new one that is safe for use.
Importance of Safety Signs November 24 2017
Of the things done in ensuring health and safety of staff, It's crucial that risks are understood by everyone and how they ought to be dealt with. Because of this, the signage at a workplace is vital, as it's one of the principal signs and reference for staff. These indications should be found where a hazard may be discovered anywhere, and that it might be avoided, the purpose is to signal the threat. Other signs explain the steps to take to be able to prevent the hazard.There are a number of signs in existence. Some are only be found in a particular location, but all of them are important. In many instances, the warning of risk isn't adequate these signs can convey various meanings. Security systems and the health utilize a set of signs that help to prevent situations that are dangerous, but instruct workers. As an example, an instruction may accompanies a gas sign to wear a gas mask. This is more powerful than a warning symbol, which wouldn't explain how to prevent the hazard.
This is not to say that signals must be relied on as a substitute for a workforce that is trained. The signs should serve as a reminder, and be of use to individuals that are familiar with procedure or an area. It is vital that safety signs are simple to comprehend. Phrases or simple graphics work in allowing a person to make an immediate 19, much better than instruction that is complicated. Others may want to be specific depending on the circumstance, although many are recognizable, like the prohibition signal.
There are four types of security signage And they use the identical color schemes all around the world. Red is an indication of the possibility of threat, which means is prohibited, or action has to be taken. Amber or yellow is a warning that measures should be taken to guarantee safety. Blue is a instruction that accompanies danger or warning signals to guarantee safety. Green is a security sign, but doesn't mean any type of danger it's used to indicate aid or an escape route. A place is very likely to use these types of signs all.
Having the signage on your place of work can reduce accidents, and are often required.
Importance of Safety Supplies (PPE) In the Workplace November 10 2017
Workplace protection is provided by safety equipment to workers when all security measures are applied.Safety Equipment
Safety gear in offices includes clothing, helmets, goggles, safety boots, hearing protectors, respirators and gloves. Additionally, there are many specialist safety items offered for workplaces, like those using light or UV or radiation.
The Value of Training for Using Security Gear
Users need to know how to use equipment correctly, including remove and how to match it. They should be conscious of what its limitations are and why they use the gear, when it should be used by them.
Training should talk about whether the job will be interfered with by any equipment and if so if there's alternative equipment. Training should stress that a job that is small is, it must be worn if personal protective equipment is needed. Employers are obliged to provide safety equipment training. A failure to do this can mean the probability in addition to prosecution of harm to an employee not using safety equipment.
When offices are made as secure as possible, risks can stay. These risks include damage to the skin which might come into contact or feet from falling objects or into the head. The eyes may be in danger even, or from dust and other contaminants from splashes. Working in a cold or hot environment can increase the risk of ill-health or harm and security gear such as gloves or gloves are crucial in protecting the hands.
Choosing Safety Equipment
Before picking safety equipment, it's important to consider whether it's acceptable for the job, whether it delivers the amount of security and what maintenance and training is necessary. Products should be marked as being compliant with the applicable legislation. It is useful for users to choose their own equipment as opposed to supervisors, as this ensures that gear isn't too heavy and fits properly. Then it's also significant that these fit as the match of goggles may disturb if pieces of PPE are required.
Storing and Keeping Safety Equipment
Security equipment requires when not in use, storing. With individuals having responsibility it requires keeping clean and in good shape. They should meet the same safety standards, if equipment components such as filters need replacing.
Workers need training to make certain that they use safety equipment properly in addition to providing the safety gear to help minimize risks.
Safety Clothing is a Dire Necessity November 10 2017
Safety First, these two words carry more magnitude than you think. Safety clothing, be it a mask, sleeve, arm guard, coverall, helmet or a boot is made for your protection. It is essential to put on safety gears and clothing before entering your work area. Your work environment may wary in terms of danger and can contain explosive materials, electrical equipment or airborne particulate matter that can prove to be harmful to you.
A Pre-eminent custom at Workplace
The first thing you need to do is to identify the hazards and try to control the risk. Not only as a worker but you must adhere to these even if you are a contractor, visitor or a student to shield yourself from any unknown threats. Be aware of all training, information, and instructions that educate you for efficiently using the safety clothes. This should not be a onetime thing but a habit that should be implemented all the time.
The significance of Safety Clothing
It is vital to be aware of all safety measurements that you might need in an emergency. BRW is a company that has been providing safety clothing products for a very long time. Our utmost priority is the safety of the labor and we keep that in mind while manufacturing our products. Our neoprene safety boots with steel toe are perfect and provide an all-day comfort and safety against contaminants and acids.
Whether you are a construction worker or a scientist, our list of clothing is going to assist you in every way possible. From our heavy duty durable denim sleeves to P series apron that provides an excellent shield from grease and oil, we have a huge list of clothing materials. All the safety products offered by us are easily adjustable. Moreover, they provide security and comfort for everyone.
Wearing Safety Gloves When Handling Chemicals October 27 2017
Along with daily hygiene habits, you should use your safety gloves to increase your hands’ protection while you complete your responsibilities at work. You will immediately experience a safer environment and better capabilities.
Skin Protection
When you work with chemicals and potentially hazardous material and/or elements, it can be a worrisome task without the proper equipment. Your safety gloves will give you peace of mind. You will be able to work with your workplace element and never worry about your hands collecting anything that you could later get in your eyes, mouth, nasal cavities, or other areas of your person. Although washing your hands might be a normal activity during your workday, some chemicals and elements can’t be washed away with soap and water alone and require special cleaning solutions and processes. Wearing gloves allow you to continue your hand washing practices and not carry those elements outside of the designated areas. Gloves also prevent you from cross contaminating other items in your workplace.
Eliminating Contamination
Wearing safety gloves gives you the flexibility to move around your workspace with chemicals or hazardous elements without the high risk of transporting them to your desk, papers, other employees, other areas, or even to other chemicals that might be nearby. Making sure they stay contained will prevent disasters. If you were to work without safety gloves, it could increase the possibility of you accumulating chemicals or elements on your skin and carrying it wherever you went until you could properly wash your hands. While wearing the gloves, you can handle those chemicals easier, remove the gloves in the proper area, and protect everything and everyone else.
Easier Handling
Containers for chemicals can pose their own dangers if not properly handled. Part of that is wearing safety gloves to prevent injuries from the outside of the containers. With gloves that have nonslip grip properties, you can handle the containers with ease and you won’t have to spend time on excess measures to transport them and their contents. This will give you more flexibility to move about freely and it will reduce any potential accidents. Safety aprons and goggles are great additions to proper dress codes but gloves provide immediate security for your hands.
Proper Safety Dress Code
As is common with many uniform dress codes, you will likely be required to wear gear that protects the most sensitive parts of your person. However, it should be noted that sometimes a position might necessitate wearing safety gloves even when you’re not handling chemicals or hazardous elements. Such positions include inspectors, quality control managers, floor supervisors, and other positions that might require someone to gain access to areas where chemicals are present. Although the individuals in those positions might never handle the materials, they will still be required to follow the dress code while entering those areas. If your job responsibilities require you to be near chemicals but not handle them, safety gloves will provide an extra layer of protection while you’re temporarily in that area.
Regardless of what industry you work in, when it comes to protecting your hands, you should understand why safety gloves provide you the maximum amount of benefits. They help reduce injuries while working with harmful chemicals or hazardous elements, protect sensitive areas of your body like your eyes and mouth from cross contamination, and help you grip and handle containers that hold those chemicals and elements.
Everything you need to know about Industrial Safety Supplies October 20 2017
Workplace dangers are real and can be divided into several categories from physical, chemical, and ergonomic hazards. How many times did you dread doing to work because you felt unsafe? You need to be aware of the fact that any company is legally bound to provide you a secure work environment because the protection of every worker comes first! This will help employers in long-term benefits like improved labor productivity and any lawsuits that might follow after an unfortunate event.
Here’s why you should consider getting safety supplies as your top most priority.
24/7 Protection
Even if your vicinity doesn't have any threat and you have always easily found your way in and out of the workplace, you still need to follow some safety protocol. What if, anything happen out-of-the-blue in an adjacent quarter and you are not prepared at all.
Permanent Safeguard
The injuries sustained through a subtle explosion or a minor event should not be taken lightly or brushed off just because it happened one time. For your own good, it is a wise practice to eliminate the risk by getting the know-how of industrial safety supplies and making them a part of your daily routine.
Wide range of Materials
Our experts at BRW Safety and Supply suggest that if your work contains constant exposure to chemical substance, then it becomes pivotal to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from direct contact. Furthermore, the daily use of BRW made protective coat apron that is high quality and specifically designed for electronic, medical, and food processing applications. It will ensure that you return home safe and sound every day. Not only these, in every way, BRW has got you covered by providing a series of protective sleeves and armguards that are ideal for meat packaging, grease spills, metal fabrication, and glass handling. We also provide a chain of other safety materials that act as a shield from metal, glass, and other substances in multiple fields.
Protective Clothing before work, You First Priority! October 13 2017
If you work in an environment where any exposure to high temperatures or harmful substance is inevitable, then consider following all precautionary measures beforehand. Some of the workplace accidents can be life-changing and not in a positive way.
Read on to know about how protective clothing can help to minimize the effects of workplace hazards.
The basic purpose
Protective clothing is vital for risk reduction. It is important to know the details of hazard that can occur i.e. which part of your body could get affected and how to prevent it from happening by wearing the protective garment most suitable for the situation.
The risk involved
Different employees go through different dangers; some can get affected by contaminated air while others may receive fragments of polluted dust. It is crucial to wear a mask at all times like the one-size-fits-all spray hood by BRW. It is made from 100% cotton and fits your head comfortably.
There are many working domains where chemical agents can attack your skin resulting in skin diseases. We provide coveralls with a front zipper that will prove to be utterly shielding for you.
Some individuals can go through a mechanical trauma that is going to cause lacerations, abrasions, and frictions. To avoid such risks, BRW’s sleeves and arm guard can give the necessary fortification. Similarly, BRW’s strong polyester gloves are cut and heat resistant.
Things to know about the right workwear
Workwear should be selected according to recognized standards and their compatibility with multiple clothing pieces beforehand. Furthermore, they should be maintained in a ‘proper working’ order to avoid any future inconvenience.
Here at BRW safety and supplies, we have built our reputation through providing quality products over time. We do not only keep in mind the ‘safety’ but also the comfort of the labor. We also provide flexible material that fits properly and does not need readjusting in any case.
Ins and Outs of Safety Goggles September 22 2017
The modern workplace, is home to a plethora of hazards and health dangers. If your fingers are not in danger of getting caught, jammed or pinched by the machinery you are working with, then your skin could get lacerations and tears from the sharp instruments you are working with. Along with this, chemicals in the workplace can be hazardous to the eyes and face.
Considering that our sight is our primary sense at work, it is imperative to ensure that our eyes are protected. This is why it is absolutely necessary to wear safety goggles when working on an industrial or construction site. Safety goggles are vital in protecting the eyes in environments where chemicals and debris could pose a hazard.
Shopping for the Right Safety Goggles
No single type of goggles can provide appropriate protection for every workplace. When shopping for the right safety goggles, there are a few factors that you have to consider to ensure that you land the perfect pair. Here are three factors that you should consider while shopping for safety equipment for your workplace:
Workplace Risks and Hazards
Every workplace has its own set of unique risks and hazards. Before setting out to shop for safety goggles, it is important to identify the full set of risks involved. Evaluating the risks and hazards will ultimately dictate the type of goggles that you end up buying.
Different shapes and thicknesses of goggles are designed for different types of material handling, whether that is stopping chemicals from spraying into your eyes, or preventing shrapnel from penetrating the lenses.
Fit and Ergonomics
Beyond offering safety, work goggles need to perfectly fit and offer allowance for proper vision. If goggles are too big in size, they will hang loosely and this is itself, is a danger in the workplace. On the other hand, if it is too small, it will be too tight and may restrict your ability to see clearly.
Consider the ergonomics and fit of goggles when shopping to ensure that the purchased pair will make it easy for you or your employees to effectively and safely get the job done.
Materials of Goggles
The other important aspect to consider, is the material used in the assembly of the safety goggles. Different materials suit different workplaces. Actually, the material used, dictates whether a pair of goggles is meant for heavy duty, light duty or medium duty. Your options include polarized lenses, full face shields and plenty more.
Here a B.R.W Safety and Supply we appreciate the importance of keeping eyes safe when working and provide high quality durable safety goggles and other protective equipment. Our products are not only safe, but comfortable and ergonomic enough to make your work day easier.
Safety Vest Purposes September 15 2017
The type of safety vest most people are familiar with and see most often are the ones worn by the Department of Transportation. However, there are a multitude of other professions that require them as well. You have also likely seen them used for a variety of purposes and in different situations. While their main purpose is for safety, there are defined reasons an employer might make a safety vest a dress code policy.
Safety
Whether you’re working an event directing traffic or putting up road signs, the main goal is for you to be safe while completing the task. A safety vest will alert drivers that you are present and working. Upon recognizing the vest, they will be able to take the proper measures to avoid interfering with your safety before they approach the area you are working in. They can move over, slow down, or come to a complete stop. If you are holding a sign, they might not realize it’s applicable until they see you in your vest holding it. At other times, when a sign is not necessary, the vest will act in its place.
Identification
Events such as professional sporting games, concerts, and fairs are hectic enough as it is. The last thing you need is for your job as an event staff to be made more complicated by attendees not knowing you are there to assist them. Wearing a safety vest will help make their experience go smoother and your job a lot easier. They will immediately recognize the vest you’re wearing and approach you when they need help. Without the vest, they will try to figure it out on their own, leaving questions unanswered and situations improperly handled. Additionally, if there is an accident or emergency situation, they can reach you easily and not have to guess at who is there to help them.
Directions
It’s not unusual for people to get lost during events or traffic detours. Your safety vest automatically signals to them that they need to approach you to receive directions on where to go. At this point, your hand signals can serve as directions. This will alleviate traffic congestion whether it’s foot or vehicle traffic. In many circumstances, drivers or pedestrians won’t have to slow down or stop, speeding up the flow.
Your employer might require you to wear a safety vest for any one or all of the reasons above. Their purpose is to keep you safe no matter what your job is, help others identify you as an employee their to assist them, and to help you direct people without having to use verbal communication. Beyond those purposes, they allow you to work more productively and effectively.
Water Resistant Coveralls help get the Job Done September 08 2017
Water resistant coveralls are an important tool when the job calls for water resistant protection. The coveralls are designed to keep you dry and protect you and your clothing from possible splashes or spills when working with liquids. The material used to make the water resistant coveralls is a breathable fabric designed to let air flow and still stand up against liquid soaking through.
Disposable water resistant coveralls are strong enough to protect you and your clothes, and because they are disposable there are some extra advantages:
- You do not need to worry about trying to get stains out.
- You do not need to wash them after a messy spill.
- They are designed for maximum coverage of your clothing and skin, with elastic wrists and ankles that can be comfortably stretched over boots, and gloves.
- They come with a hood and elastic closure around your face that meets up with the main zipper to protect the head.
The elastic is tight enough to prevent water from getting in, yet loose enough to be comfortable and allow movement. The arms and legs are wide enough to allow wide movements, however they are not bulky or heavy giving the person wearing them more flexibility.
The front of the coveralls closes with a zipper, with a cover to keep them closed tightly. The long zipper allows for easy on and off over most clothing. With a wood pulp/polyester fabric the material is ideal for water resistance when treated with a water repellent. The material also allows for air flow minimizing the chance for chafing and overheating.
Weather the job you have in mind is inside or outside, water resistant disposable coveralls will help keep your clothes dry and safe from any liquids you may be working with. They are commonly used for jobs like:
- Pressure Washing
- Cleaning or Washing Equipment
- Painting
- Cleaning Gutters and Downspouts
- Cleaning up any non-hazardous materials from a site
- Sand blasting
- Any dirty wet job where you want to protect your skin and clothing from liquids
When you are wearing water resistant coveralls that are disposable you have an opportunity to strip off all of the dirt and grime when you take those off, leaving the rest of your clothes clean and dry. It makes the job easier, and causes less damage and stress to your work clothes. They also protect you from having to work in wet or damp clothing that may cause chafing. When you have disposable water resistant coveralls you and your employees will be a lot more comfortable and be able to get the job done faster and safer.
PVC Coated Apron Functions August 25 2017
PVC coated aprons are a commonly used safety item for employers who wish to stay compliant with OSHA standards and workplace procedures. What you might not be aware of is the full scope of their protection for you and various uses. Their primary purpose, obviously, is to protect your body, but your employer’s vision for a PVC coated apron might extend that safety beyond the general surface. While these additional uses are preference based, they still comply with safety guidelines. Either way, you need to know all of the advantages of wearing one on your job.
Preventing Injuries
If your daily job responsibilities include handling harmful material, chemicals, or toxins of any kind, your employer has selected a very specific PVC coated apron for you to wear accordingly. Majority of them are lightweight to reduce restrictions on your movements. Being able to move freely means that you can focus solely on the task at hand without having to compromise your natural movements. Aprons also help protect your body and clothing against any accidental spills. Along with other safety items, they act as a barrier between the substance you’re handling and your body. In addition, the apron you wear will help contain any chemicals spilled or that come in contact with your person to guard against spreading it to other people and areas.
Eliminating Potential Cross Contamination
Even a drop of harmful substance the size of a pinhead could cause injury and other workplace emergencies. Wearing a PVC coated apron allows you and other workers to contain the substance you work with to one area; the designated space you work in. If a spill occurs, you can simply but carefully remove the apron and use the proper procedures to remove the spillage without cross contaminating other areas, coworkers, and substances. Because most aprons can be washed, you can eliminate any potential disasters in every department. Following respective workplace practices, aprons should be removed and washed properly each day, but you should still only wear the apron that is specific to your job duties and department.
Differentiating Departments
Working in a building that has different departments that deal with varying equipment, substances, and activities would be difficult if you weren’t aware of all the departments and their assigned functions. Likewise, the same is true for the PVC coated apron you are required to wear. Different colors can indicate different departments to allow all employees to know which one to use. If you work in a department that uses a certain type of chemical, your apron color or type indicates to others where you work and whether or not you can have any contact with that person. For example, a person working in a department that handles corrosives will be noticeable by the color of their apron. In this case, name tags and department badges are not practical because there is a level of closeness required to be able to read them. The apron stands as the only indicator needed to avoid workplace accidents.
While you might always feel safe on your job as a result of safety practices, your employer provides an extra layer of safety and protection by requiring you to always wear a PVC coated apron. Their use ranges from preventing injuries as a result of chemical splashes or escaped toxins to reducing or eliminating the possibility for cross contamination to occur. Likewise, aprons varying in color can indicate the different departments so there is no unsafe handling if an individual handles them all. Know your workplace procedures, follow the safety guidelines, and wear your apron to ensure full protection.
Workplaces around the world require employees to wear safety glasses. August 18 2017
If you work in a fairly low-key industry that doesn’t seem like any threats would be posed to your eyes, you might have wondered a time or two why you need to wear them. Before you start your strike against safety glasses, pull them off, and throw them in the trash, just keep in mind that, although you might not physically see it or be aware of it, there could be a number of very valid reasons why the boss wants you to keep them on.
Foreign Objects
Safety glasses are not much unlike safety goggles in the sense that they help keep out any foreign objects. However, while they are keeping your eyes free of dust particles, glass, and other harmful material, they feel just like regular glasses. They allow you to continue working without having to wear bulky goggles that might actually intrude your vision. Projectile objects, regardless of how tiny or soft, can become lodged in your eye and cause damage. If you are wearing safety glasses, they will act as a barrier between that object and your precious eye.
Cross Contamination
Can you think of all the times throughout the day when you touch things? What about when you touch your eyes? Most people don’t even think about that. They just go about their business without giving it any consideration. When you work in an environment where there is dust, chemicals, or any harmful substance that you touch, it’s necessary for you to constantly wash your hands to prevent cross contamination. However, wearing safety equipment can help keep your bare hands away. In all likelihood, you probably don’t even think about it when you touch your eyes. If you get an itch, you’re going to scratch it. Unfortunately, everything you’ve touched prior to scratching your eye will be transferred to it. Now, any contaminants that have gathered on your hand are in your eye. At the very least, safety glasses will remind you not to touch your eyes.
Your eyes are precious and extremely fragile and sensitive. The tiniest particle of dust, unseen gases, and the most innocent action of scratching your eye could lead to injuries. Wearing safety glasses can help protect your eyes against the seen and unseen so that you can continue seeing. The barrier they create will allow you to complete your workday safely and effectively. No matter how soft or small an object is, it can harm your eyes, gases that are allowed to escape and/or that put off fumes can irritate unprotected eyes, and touching your eye for even a split second can transfer contaminants to it. Wearing your safety equipment can help prevent all of this.
How does an Auto Darkening Welding Lens Work? August 11 2017
One of the tools needed for welding safety is a welding helmet. The helmet protects your head and the lens on the helmet protects your eyes. It is important to see what you are welding and with an auto darkening lens you can switch from regular view to protective view quickly. The benefits of a Radnor auto darkening welding lens are:
- Works for general purpose stick welding.
- Works for MIG welding.
- Variable shades 9 through 12.
- Can be used on fixed front and lift front helmets.
- Clear safe view of the puddle.
- Less time lifting the helmet and causing stress on your neck.
- You can see where you are working and start welding all without having to move your helmet.
A good lens like a Radnor auto darkening welding lens will protect you from welders flash or arc eye. The risk of burn is high when you are not using a helmet equipped with a shade lens above shade 9.
With an auto darkening lens as soon as there is an arc present, or optical radiation from welding sparks, the lens darkens automatically. There are light sensors around the Radnor auto darkening welding lens that detect a welding arc, and when there is no arc present the lens has a normal sunglasses type filter giving you the ability to navigate easily without having to remove your helmet. This in turn will allow you to see where you are on your project and begin to weld without having to “snap” your neck to drop your helmet. In conventional lenses without the auto darkening feature you need to go constantly back and forth to eye your work, keeping your place each time. It is a great deal easier and helps your work be more consistent when you don’t have to move in order to start your arc.
The American Welding Society safety and health fact sheet indicates that there are close to 2,000 eye injuries every day in the workplace and most of those injuries could have been prevented by wearing eye protection that is necessary for the job. The most hazardous incidences are eye injuries caused by flying metal, slag, and dirt or grinding particles.
The bottom line is, using the most up to date auto darkening welding lens for any and all welding jobs will keep your eyes safe, allow for more accurate work and even reduce the amount of time spent welding.
Benefits of 3M Privo Safety Glasses August 04 2017
If you are like many other people, you despise having to wear safety glasses, but you understand and appreciate why they are necessary. The disadvantages most generic safety glasses have are part of the reason they are dreaded. You have more than likely experienced several of them. They tend to not fit properly, making them uncomfortable to wear. It’s easy to lose them when they aren’t tucked away in your pocket or actually on your face. In a lot of cases, they only provide limited amounts of protection. 3m Privo safety glasses are the best because they eliminate those issues and provide more advantages.
Ultimate Protection
These glasses are made out of polycarbonate. This strong material shields your eyes from virtually all harmful UV rays and drastically reduces the harm high impacts would normally create. The lenses, though clear, have an anti-fog coating so that you can work in environments where temperatures are varying and fog won’t impede your vision. Due to their protective nature, you can wear these glasses in any environment. Whether you work in construction, at an airline, with chemicals, or even preparing food, the safety of your eyes will never be compromised. They meet OSHA standards for all industries and most potential occupational dangers.
Multiple Points Of Comfort
Unlike most other safety glasses, 3m Privo safety glasses provide multiple points of comfort where users generally have the most problems. The bridge of the nose, temple area, and the top of the ear are sensitive places that can become irritated if not treated gently. Safety glasses can rub against and fit too snugly on those parts of your face and head. 3m Privo eliminates those issues. You’ll find the bridge is soft and rests lightly on your nose, the temple points are also soft and won’t bear down on the sides of your head, and the lenses have a minor extension around your eyes to better improve the fit. In fact, the overall fit of these safety glasses are infinitely better than you’d find with regular ones.
With 3m Privo safety glasses, you won’t ever have to worry about limited protection, you can wear them just about anywhere and on any job site, and they are visually appealing, making them more than just safety glasses. You can wear the common ones when you don’t need a lot of protection, but for the ultimate in safety, 3m Privo glasses are the only choice. You can wear them indoor while you are at work or outside while you work on your hobby. The places and reasons you might need and want to wear them are extensive. This pair of safety glasses is the last pair you’ll need to purchase.
Phenolic Hard Hats July 24 2017
If you work in an industry that requires you to wear a standard, general plastic hardhat, you should know about phenolic hard hats and the difference between the two. When your occupation requires that you be exposed to harsh elements for only a temporary amount of time, you should choose a plastic hard hat. But if you have to be exposed to dangerous chemicals, heat or fire, or possible falling debris, your employer will most likely require you to use phenolic hard hats at all times.
What Are Phenolic Hard Hats
Unlike plastic hard hats, phenolic hard hats are coated with a material designed to prevent them from caving under abnormal and extreme conditions. They provide you with the maximum amount of protection that exceeds what a standard hard hat allows. One of its main features is that it has a sure fit that cradles your head. This is important because a hat that doesn’t fit properly automatically has compromised its integrity and lost some of its safety features. When that happens, it also loses its purpose. These hats are intended to protect your head against the elements plastic hats can’t and don’t protect against.
What Is Their Purpose
Phenolic hard hats can withstand temperatures reaching up to 350º F. The hard shell prevents the heat from penetrating through the hats and jeopardizing your health. Heat that high can cause a multitude of health issues. Electricity also cannot seep through these hats. Due to their nature and design, you will be able to survive, without injury, an electric charge measuring 2,200 volts. This does not mean that you can escape any situation. You just won’t experience a direct contact with the electricity or the heat that you are exposed to. Falling debris kills and injures many people each year, even those who are wearing a hard hat. Phenolic hard hats also guard against the impact of debris. In addition, they protect your head from chemicals, asbestos, and other material that would come into direct contact with the top of your head.
What Occupations Use These Hard Hats
Since the top of your head is exposed to more danger than the rest of your body, and it’s the most sensitive and susceptible to injury, a hard hat is often a regulated safety requirement in many occupations. If you work in an environment that has safety hat regulations, one of the phenolic hard hats offered by your employer should be worn at all times. You’re likely to see coworkers wearing one if they handle harmful chemicals, are removing asbestos, are often in the nuclear section of your company, lift or place heavy equipment, or if you spend time in an area where debris often falls. A few of the other occupations that might require these hard hats are electricians, construction workers, welders, and those who work with explosive.
Different Types Of Phenolic Hats
Depending on your employer, field protocol, and occupation, you could see specific phenolic hard hats around your area. They may have different shapes or designs, features, colors, and coating material to match the safety that’s needed.
One example of a phenolic hard hat is the MSA Skullguard Class G, Type I
Your workplace safety is only as good as the safety equipment you use and wear. While plastic hard hats seem to be the standard for people who have limited exposure to harsh elements, phenolic hard hats are better suited for you if you work in environments where you will be exposed to dangerous elements like extreme heat or fire, chemicals or substances, or falling debris that could puncture on impact.
Kevlar Arm Guards: Why More Industries Should Be Using Them March 01 2017
In one way or another, we all benefit from some of nature’s most incredible materials. For example; wood, an amazing material that is both versatile and strong. We use it to manufacture paper, build houses, and a plethora of things in between. How about wool? It has been made with insulation so efficacious, sheep can live outside all winter and can stand in the snow.
Another amazing material is skin because of its ability to repair itself instantly and in many cases completely in a short period of time. It is not uncommon for skin to heal itself so well that any evidence of a scratch or injury seemingly becomes invisible. What do all of these materials have in common? Well, they are all incredible in their function, but are far from perfect, especially when it comes to performance with the unanticipated dangers and challenges we face in our modern world.
How Kevlar Improved on Nature
Due to the varying safety challenges we face today, science has afforded us the opportunity to create wonderfully effective synthetic materials like Kevlar. Even though Kevlar is considered to be a plastic material, it is so strong, it has the ability to stop knives and bullets. In fact, it is described by many as being stronger than steel.
When most of us think of Kevlar, we think of the bullet proof vests worn by police officers and the military. with Kevlar’s strength, it makes complete sense that most of us would associate vests made from Kevlar with our service men in women who work in dangerous conditions.
Thanks to this amazing synthetic material, law enforcement can be both safe and more effective at their jobs. It’s important to understand that while this steel-like plastic material will most likely save a person’s life from a bullet or an attempt to stab another person, they may still experience a blunt force trauma type of injury in the process.
Kevlar is not only found in bullet proof vests, but it also has many other uses. For example, it is used to make boats, to reinforce brake pads and tires, and it is often found in a many other different types of safety equipment, like in these Kevlar Arm Guards for example. Similar to nature’s wood, Kevlar is quite versatile and is often found in some of the most unexpected things and is used by some of the most unexpected occupations.
What Makes Kevlar so Good
As if a plastic material being compared to steel isn’t already enough to set itself apart from the rest. Check out what else makes Kevlar even more amazing than it already is.
Additional Properties:
- Even though it’s strong, it’s very lightweight.
- It’s great at resisting higher temperatures and it does not melt but decomposes at about 850 degrees Fahrenheit.
- It can be ignited, but burning stops once the heat source is gone.
- It doesn’t degrade in low temperatures.
- It can protect against attacks from chemicals and acids.
- It is not affected by moisture or prolonged exposure to hot water.
Who can use materials made with Kevlar?
As mentioned earlier, Kevlar is not only used as an antiballistic material in items such as bullet proof vests and other body protection, but it can also be found in several other types of materials for a variety of uses. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the different people and industries that could possibly use products made with this “strong-as-steel” plastic.
People working in any law enforcement position (some on-scene medical personnel and educators do as well) are known to use Kevlar. From prison officers to military body armor, civil protection vests to stab vests for paramedics, and bounty hunters. Depending on the conditions in which many people in these occupations are expected to work, a protective vest made with Kevlar at the very least is worn.
Paramedics wear vests and protective gear made from Kevlar when they are expected to help patients in situations where the people in the area may be under gun fire or conditions with different types of debris in the air. Depending on the situation and the occupation, Kevlar vests are made with different layers (up to eight) to protect the user from certain types of blows. For example, military protection gear is typically made with eight layers of Kevlar since military personnel are more likely to end up in situations where they may have to sustain blows from high-powered rifles.
Depending on the job and the materials worked with, construction workers are also known to use Kevlar Arm Guards, Kevlar gloves, and Kevlar inserts, which is extra padding workers can wear underneath other protective gear to help give that added layer of protection when working with dangerous equipment such as chainsaws.
Remember we mentioned how it’s not easy to cut through anything made with Kevlar? Metal fabricators and anyone handling glass also use Kevlar safety gear and equipment due to the fact that it’s highly cut and puncture resistant. It’s easy to say that anyone working in these types of jobs and in these conditions are most certainly glad that they have protective gear made from bulletproof material protecting their hands and body.
Not only for hazardous occupations
The use of Kevlar is not limited to hazardous occupations, rather, it can also be used for potentially hazardous activities in the home or outside of the home as well. For example, oven mitts have also been made with it and even those cooking with grease in commercial kitchens use materials made with Kevlar. That’s not all, pot holders and other kitchen materials are also made with it.
Interestingly, Reebok CrossFit footwear as well as some of their accessories are made with Kevlar fiber to help make these products lightweight and strong. Adidas also uses Kevlar fiber in one of their lines of football cleats. A company called ‘Draggin’ uses it to make jeans for motorcycle riding and Bauer has a skate sock for hockey players made with Kevlar fiber to provide feet with cut-resistant protection.
The list of materials and items made using Kevlar and/or its fibers seems to go on forever and we couldn’t possibly list them all. However, to further demonstrate its strength and durability, DuPont, the company that created Kevlar, has also invented the only in-house storm room that uses this incredible plastic to reinforce it. The storm room shelter can withstand blows from flying wood and other materials at winds speeds up to 250 MPH, while bolted down of course.
The woman behind Kevlar
Stepahanie Kwolek, a DuPont Chemist in a predominantly male occupation, invented Kevlar’s stronger-than-steel fiber in 1965, which is used today in all of the products (and many others) mentioned in this article.
In an interview during the ‘Women in Chemistry’ Series, Kwolek said,
"I knew that I had made a discovery, I didn't shout 'Eureka,' but I was very excited, as was the whole laboratory excited, and management was excited because we were looking for something new, something different, and this was it."
Soon after Stephanie’s discovery, Kevlar’s fiber immediately went to work and started being used life-saving equipment and materials and has gone on to save countless lives and prevent countless injuries throughout the years. The interesting thing about it is that it’s a spun fiber from liquid polymers with each fiber coming out stiff and strong. Each exceptionally tough fiber is up to fives times stronger by weight than steel. It was an incredible man-made discovery indeed.
Kevlar vs. the Alternatives
Between the brief synopsis of Kevlar’s back story coupled with many of the different materials made with this incredible plastic and its stronger-than-steel fibers, all of this information definitely paints a clear picture of the efficacy of Kevlar’s ability to protect and make materials and structures stronger. Its lightweight properties contribute to its versatility because it allows people to wear clothing and equipment made with it without being weighed down.
Like us, you’re probably wondering of there are any alternatives to Kevlar, and just like most other inventions, there are a few different modern-day alternatives that have already been developed. Intriguingly, some of the alternatives are both cheaper than Kevlar and claim to be as strong, if not stronger than it. As an illustration, a company in Alpharetta, Georgia has invented a material called ABC-Matrix.
ABC-Matrix is said to be just as tough only much cheaper to make and it is made by melting polymers from recycled plastics. Similar to Kevlar, it is also flame retardant and waterproof. It has been tested and found to withstand 3,000 rounds fired from an AK-47 rifle. Additionally, and probably the most intriguing, the materials in ABC-Matrix apparently meld back together after taking a hit from a bullet.
Another material called Nanocellulose is also trying to steel the spotlight and is allegedly up to eight times the tensile strength of steel. It is made from wood pulp and is formed into a type of paste. Computer companies have a strong interest in it for computer parts and The Department of Defense has a strong interest in using for automotive and medical devices. It is also a much cheaper alternative.
A person will of course find some interesting materials with comparable properties and capabilities, but none of them have the history and track record that Kevlar does. With all of the properties found in Kevlar compared with its cheaper alternatives, it is clear that Kevlar is still one of the most versatile steel-like fibers with the fibers being built into and used across multiple products and industries. It is also one of the most trusted when it comes to safety equipment and protection gear and its technology is patented.
Why Use Kevlar Armguards
Getting back to Kevlar arm guards, it’s plain to see how arm guards made with such incredible properties is definitely the way to go. After much research, few armguard designs compare to Kevlar’s technology found in the Total Defense Kevlar Armguard with Hycar.
To add to the stronger-than-steel durability and strength already built into the Total Defense armguards, they have also been designed with Hycar, a nitrile rubber that is superior to neoprene but is a natural rubber excellent for cut, abrasion, and puncture resistance. Hycar (or nitrile) is also incredibly resistant to a variety of oils and fats and acids, making Kevlar armguards an excellent choice for variety of industries and occupations.
Most other armguards are mainly made out of polyester or neoprene, or many of them are thick, awkward, and difficult to wear for use while working on important tasks that require arm protection and new designs seem light. The main question is, are they durable enough to keep wrists and arms safe while handling abrasive, sharp, or potentially hazardous materials? If they are not made with Kevlar or any of the similar alternatives referenced, most armguards available will not meet the safety demands of most tasks.
When it comes to safety, no one can really be too careful. It is so important that workers equip themselves with safety gear and equipment made with superior and trusted materials to ensure the highest level of safety in any job. Kevlar is one of those materials and has been around since 1965, and as most of us already know, it is effective in keeping public service workers and workers in more hazardous working conditions safe. No matter what type of alternatives are invented, Kevlar is definitely here to stay, so make sure your safety gear is made with tougher-than-steel Kevlar.
Cut Resistant Gloves - Update to Standards March 21 2016
Significant changes are coming to the world of Cut Resistant gloves in 2016. Both the EN388 and ANSI 105 standards are making significant changes.
The major changes to ANSI 105 are coming in the form of a new testing method. The testing method used by ANSI 105 will be the F2992-15 test. This testing method will still use the TDM 100 Cut Machine the previous testing method, ASTM F1790 allowed for two different machines to be used. This new method will all for universal testing.
Another major difference between the new standard and the old is that a different set of scales will be used. The previous standard used a 5 point scale while the new standard will use a 9 point scale.
As you can see below, the old 5 point scale only only went up to 3,500 grams whereas the new scale, now labeled A1-A9 as opposed to 1-5, goes up to 6,000 grams.
ANSI 105 - Old Standard
ANSI Cut Level |
Weight needed to cut through with |
0 | < 199 |
1 | 200 - 499 |
2 | 500 - 999 |
3 | 1000 - 1499 |
4 | 1500 - 3499 |
5 | > 3500 |
The new scale used in the new standard is significantly different.
ANSI Cut Level | Weight needed to cut through with 1 inch of blade travel (in grams) |
A1 |
200 - 499 |
A2 | 500 - 999 |
A3 | 1000 - 1499 |
A4 | 1500 - 2199 |
A5 | 2200 - 2999 |
A6 | 3000 - 3999 |
A7 | 4000 - 4999 |
A8 | 5000 - 5999 |
A9 | > 6000 |
As you can see there is no a much broader range of Cut Resistance levels that allow for more precision when determining the needs of your company.
While the changes to the the ANSI 105 standard are significant, only one testing method is now allowed and more precise ANSI Cut Levels EN388 has also changed drastically.
EN388 will continue to use The Coup Test but, if passed, will adopt the ISO 13997 test. The ISO 13997 test will use the TDM 100 Machine (just like the machine required by ANSI 105). The scales have changed as well, they will be adopting a new scale. Also, it's worth noting that the EN388 standard uses Newtons as opposed to grams.
If approved, the expected results are listed below with the new scale and the Newton value associated with it.
EN388 Cut Level | EN ISO Cut Resistance in Newton value |
A | 2 |
B | 5 |
C | 10 |
D | 15 |
E | 22 |
F | 30 |
G | 40 |
H | 50 |
I | 60 |
The most significant change to both standards is you will now be able to select a glove that fits the need of those wearing the glove and better protect them.
In the mean time, if there is anything we can help you with at BRW Safety & Supply please let us know. Please feel free to e-mail us at askbrw@brwsafety.com
ANSI/ISEA 107 Standard - 2015 February 20 2016
In February of 2016, ANSI/ISEA has made significant modifications to the ANSI 107 standard. Commonly referred to as the American National Standard for High Visibility Safety Apparel and Accessories.
Firstly, the most important thing to know is that all 107-2010 garments are still usable under the new rules. According to ML Kishigo Manufacturing, "The ISEA is seeking an official interpretation from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to determine if the new standard is an equivalent revision and therefore complies with all FHWA requirements.
Secondly, the major updates are centered around four items and those are as follows: Classification, Types, Sizing and Labeling.
Classification
As most people are aware the ANSI 107 standard centered around Performance and Supplemental classes. Those are Class 1, 2, 3 and the supplemental Class E. Those still exist and will continue exist in the future.
The major addition is a classification based on work activities. Those classifications will be Type O, Type R and Type P.
- Type O - Off Road - Occupational HVSA for Non-Roadway Use that includes Class 1
- Type R - Roadway & Temporary Traffic Control - Occupational HVSA for Roadway Use. Includes Class 2, 3 and supplemental Class E.
- Type P - Public Safety - Occupational HVSA for Emergency, Incident Responders and Law Enforcement Personnel. Includes Classes 2 & 3 and combines the ANSI 207 and 107 under the new Type P classification.
Types
- Leg Gaiters are now considered Class E as long as they have the appropriate background material and retroreflective material.
Sizing
- The 2015 standard finally takes into consideration of smaller workers and reduces the amount of background material required for Type R Class 2 and 3 garments. This will allow for a true to size Small garment instead of simply a garment that is longer.
Labeling
Currently, all ANSI/ISEA 107 & 207 garments have been required to have a pictogram on the label. The new standard requires three items to be designated on the garment and those are as follows:
- Type of Garment
- Class of Garment
- Flame Resistant or non-Flame Resistant
What This Means
As of February 20, 2016, it means that the current garments you are using are currently fine. There is no major difference as of this date. Until the FHWA approves the changes everything is status quo.
In the mean time, if you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact us at BRW Safety & Supply and we'll answer your questions to the best of our ability and work towards putting your employees in the brightest and most visible gear on the market.
In the mean time, if there is anything we can help you with at BRW Safety & Supply please let us know.
Sources: ML Kishigo Manufactring, and ANSI.