An accident with molten metal presents one of the highest risk scenarios in the foundry. Selecting the right clothing is essential to increase protection against metal splash, contact burns, and radiant heat.
In this article we explore common questions about clothing, however most roles will also require other PPE such as gloves, visors, and boots.
Every workplace and process is different, however, so a company’s risk assessments should guide their choice of garment type, material, and design.
What should be considered?
Starting with what risks are present, some things to consider are:
- Which molten metals are handled?
- Which parts of the body are exposed?
- What’s the amount of molten metal workers could be exposed to?
Another often overlooked aspect is involving the workers in the design, fit, and comfort of the garments. Why? Well, poorly fitting or uncomfortable clothing is often worn incorrectly or not at all!
Which garments should be chosen?
This is definitely not a ‘one size fits all’ decision, as each job will require different levels of protection depending on the risks assessed.
For example, a cupola furnace worker may need whole body protection, whereas a worker creating smaller scale castings may only need protective trousers.
Why are jackets and trousers preferred over coveralls?
A two piece jacket and trouser can typically be removed more quickly in an emergency than a one piece coverall, which is the main safety reason they’re preferred. However, they can also be more cost effective if only one half needs to be replaced, and it may increase comfort with airflow and ease of movement.
Ensure all garments chosen overlap, even when bending or stretching, fasten securely, fit closely, and have no turn-ups where molten metal could collect. Pockets should either be avoided or covered by a protective flap wider than the pocket so it cannot be tucked in.
What are the standards that matter?
EN ISO 11612 is the standard that covers clothing for the protection against heat and flame. It will be included on a label inside the garment, and with accompanying paperwork.
It helps with choosing the correct garment because it shows the levels of convective heat, radiant heat, molten aluminium splash, molten iron splash, and contact heat the garment will resist.
Remember, PPE doesn’t give superpowers, but it can decrease the impact of a serious injury!
For more information by the Health and Safety Executive on this topic, visit www.hse.gov.uk/moltenmetals
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 & 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 Jon Birch at 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