Article originally published in the Foundry Trade Journal Issue August/September 2024
What to consider when using gloves to protect against high heat?
Getting effective protection throughout all stages of the metal handling and melting process can be tricky, as there are many different things to consider, starting with defining the risks in the process that is being carried out. Some things to consider are:
- What is the temperature that you are working with?
- Is there a potential molten material splash risk?
- Is contact heat a risk?
- Is radiant heat a risk?
- Are there any other risks such as cuts, punctures and abrasions?
Once the risk is known, then the next step is to consider how important the comfort and flexibility of the glove is, ensuring the wearer can carry out the task with enough dexterity.
Why are glove ergonomics important for safety?
The hands are often the body part that is first exposed to the dangers of the task, whether this is when handling hot or sharp materials or from flames, heat and sparks. The importance of wearing the correct PPE cannot be understated, and comfort should be considered early on when the job involves repetitive actions.
The two key things to consider in glove ergonomics are one, the comfort and two, the fit. The materials used in glove construction can range from full grain leather to a soft aramid knit, and discussing the options here will help with comfort, and dexterity will be best when the glove is sized correctly to fit the wearer.
5-finger glove vs 3-finger glove vs 2-finger mitten:
Glove options suitable for foundries and other high heat environments will come in the form of one of these three options. However, what’s the difference?
The five-finger glove will give greater freedom of movement and dexterity when precision is essential, but they may be more difficult to remove in an emergency.
The two-finger mitten usually gives the highest thermal insulation factor, and is easy to slip off in an emergency, so this is a good option when working with very high temperatures.
The three-finger glove is a good compromise between the two, as it offers a firmer grip when handling hot items and can still have high thermal insulation.
What are the glove safety standards?
The two main hand protection standards in the UK are EN 388:2016 and EN 407:2004.
EN 388 applies to all gloves seeking to protect against mechanical risks, including ratings on abrasion, cut, tear, puncture and impact resistance.
EN 407 has six tests for any glove designed to protect against thermal hazards, including burning behaviour, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat and molten metal splash resistance.
Gloves tested to these standards will have markings displayed inside the glove and with accompanying paperwork.
This is where MF Safety can help:
The correct protection is needed for every task. It is vital to choose a supplier who can give advice, a good service level, and communicate clearly at every stage of the process.
MF Safety & Workwear is a PPE and clothing supplier based centrally in the UK in the Midlands. Family owned and run, the company has been established in PPE and safety since 1991. They provide the following:
- Aluminised clothing,
- High heat protective gloves,
- High heat head and face protection,
- Specialist foundry boots,
- Molten metal splash clothing,
- Respiratory protection,
- Hand cut protection.
MF Safety & Workwear supply across the UK foundry, castings and forging sectors, providing information and guidance as well as the products to help companies protect staff with a service that can be trusted.
Contact MF Safety & Workwear:
Tel: +44 (0)115 925 2261
Email: [email protected]