For individuals in several professions, working in hot conditions is unavoidable. Whether fighting fires, operating a furnace or handling molten metals, some workers have to face extreme heat every day, and they need appropriate PPE and safety procedures to prevent injuries such as burns and heat stress. CHARNAUD® explains what goes into designing and constructing the perfect PPE clothing and accessories to keep workers cool and safe.
Working Safely in Hot Conditions
Although extreme heat is a serious hazard, it is possible to get effective protection against it, even when constant exposure is unavoidable. The choice of PPE depends on the type and duration of exposure. With this in mind, PPE manufacturers place their products in one of two broad categories: primary exposure PPE and secondary exposure PPE, i.e., clothing and accessories that protect against both direct contact with hot substances, and against radiant heat.
Primary exposure PPE is intended to protect workers in situations where they are likely to experience direct exposure to extremely hot substances or surfaces, such as molten metals. Primary PPE would include the aluminized accessories used by welders or foundry workers, such as gloves and aprons. These are designed to provide complete protection against contact with molten metal, which is bound to result in serious injuries.
Secondary exposure PPE is designed for ongoing protection against radiant heat and sources of open flame. This would include all kinds of flame-resistant (FR) clothing, such as boiler suits, overalls, and fire-fighting bunker suits. It also includes items such as underwear, socks, boots and headgear.
Read our blog for more tips and advice on all varieties of PPE.
CHARNAUD®’s PPE for High Heat
CHARNAUD® has designed a variety of PPE collections designed to protect workers against both primary and secondary heat hazards. These include:
FIRE-SAFE®, created specifically to cater to the safety needs of firefighters.
SURVIVE-ARC®, designed to protect electrical workers against the thermal effects of an arc flash.
METAL-SAFE®, including aluminized items for complete protection against metal splash and direct contact with hot molten metals.
Trust CHARNAUD for Your Quality Flame-Protective Workwear
CHARNAUD® is a supplier of quality firefighting equipment, as well as other safety gear. Contact us for advice and quotations on quality PPE, including firefighting gear and safety equipment for a host of other professions.
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