Hazards
Protection from Every Angle
Depending on the line of work you’re in, there are a number of dangers you may face while on the job. To find out what these hazards are, your first step should always be to conduct a hazard risk assessment. This allows you to identify your specific hazards, so you can select the right protective equipment. Whether you need protection from flash fire, arc flash or some combination of hazards, Bulwark® Protection offers the industry’s widest portfolio of FR and PPE, to keep you protected.
Arc Flash
Arc Flash
An arc flash is a powerful and dangerous occurrence where an electric current leaves its anticipated path and travels from phase to phase, or phase to ground. The amount of energy that workers could be exposed to varies greatly, so the level of protection that the clothing provides must match the severity presented by the potential hazards, as indicated by the garment's arc rating.
Inadvertent Chemical Splash
Inadvertent Chemical Splash
The wide variety of liquid chemicals present in labs pose a significant threat of a chemical splash that can burn through regular clothing or lab coats that don’t offer flame-resistance (FR) or chemical protection (CP). The types of PPE required to protect against chemical splash is determined by the kinds of chemicals present and the level of possible exposure for employees.
Molten Metals
Molten Metals
The environment of those who work with or near molten metal is extreme, to say the least. These workers come in close contact with metals at high temperatures, which can splash and cling to their clothing, transferring intense heat and severe burns. Wearing appropriate PPE clothing can minimize the effects of this hazard by helping molten metal roll off the garment.
Flash Fire
Flash Fire
A flash fire is a rapid moving flame front that can be caused by a diffuse fuel, such as dust, gas, or the vapors of an ignitable liquid, without the production of damaging pressure. NFPA® 2112 and NFPA® 2113 are the “go-to” industry consensus standards that address flash fire. NFPA® 2113 focuses on how organizations and employers—as well as individual wearers—should choose the correct garment based on certain criteria.
Combustible Dust
Combustible Dust
Combustible dust is a finely divided combustible particulate solid that presents a flash-fire hazard or explosion hazard when suspended in air. These tiny particles of material might not normally be flammable, but when suspended in a cloud, they can be ignited and cause a dangerous chain reaction. The recent publication of NFPA® 652 states that employers must protect workers who face this hazard with FR clothing.
Visibility
Visibility
The need to be seen is critical for those who work around moving vehicles or equipment. Wearing high-visibility garments with reflective tape helps alert vehicle operators to the presence of workers around them, especially in low-light environments.
Protective Wear for Every Industry
It’s important that you protect yourself with PPE clothing that meets—or better yet, exceeds—your industry’s specific standards.