The hands are often the body part that is first exposed to the dangers of the task, whether this is handling hot materials or exposure to flames, radiant heat and spatter. Choosing the correct PPE is important, to get the right protection at the best level of comfort, durability, and cost.
CONSIDERATIONS WHEN USING GLOVES TO PROTECT AGAINST HIGH HEAT
Starting with what risks are present, some things to consider are:
- Is there a potential molten material splash risk?
- Is contact heat a risk? What is the temperature?
- Is radiant heat a risk?
- Are there other risks such as cuts, punctures and abrasions?
- How much dexterity is needed to complete the task?
GLOVES VERSUS MITTENS – why design matters
Glove options for heat protection will come in the form of five-finger and three-finger gloves, or a two-finger mitten. 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.
MATERIAL MATTERS WHEN CHOOSING A GLOVE
The materials used in glove construction can range from full grain leather to an aramid knit, and choosing the right option here will ensure durability and dexterity. Some general points on each material are highlighted here, although there are many glove options available, some of which might be different.
Leather
Leather is a great natural choice for heat protection due to its durability, the level of flexibility and dexterity needed for handling tools and when finishing castings. Adding layers of insulation can make it suitable for up to 350°C, however, leather naturally breaks down over time after contact with 100°C+.
Aramid
Aramid is a great choice for handling higher temperatures, up to 1000°C, such as in investment casting when paired with layers of insulation. However, it may not be as durable when handling abrasive surfaces, and extreme heat protection can come at the expense of dexterity, making it less suitable for precision tasks.
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:
- Radiant heat protection.
- Contact heat protection.
- Molten metal splash protection.
- Respiratory protection.
- Cut, puncture and impact protection.
MF Safety & Workwear supplies across the UK foundry, castings and forging sectors, providing information and guidance as well as stocking the products to help companies protect staff with a service that can be trusted.
Contact MF Safety & Workwear for a no-obligation supply review of your PPE and safety clothing.
Tel: +44 (0) 115 925 2261, Email: [email protected]
Web: www.mfsafety.co.uk | www.mfsafetyshop.com
Meet us at CASTcon 2025, hosted by the Cast Metals Federation on 16th April 2025, to be held at Cranfield University (UK).