The research is needed before buying coveralls, due to there are different levels of coveralls and varies working conditions, people should choose the suitable coverall.
Here is the content list:
Research before you buy
The effectiveness of various combinations of coveralls
Suggestion
Research before you buy
With the various levels of protection available, it is important to conduct some research before purchasing safety clothing because different industries have different requirements. By taking the various standards and factors into account, safety clothing can be designed so that it protects employees (or those affected by the activity) from the risks associated with the work activity.
Hazards that may require safety coveralls include: temperature extremes; adverse weather; chemical or metal splash; spray from pressure leaks or spray guns; impact or penetration; contaminated dust; excessive wear or entanglement of own clothing.
Options include conventional or disposable coveralls, boiler suits, specialist protective clothing, for example chainmail aprons and high visibility clothing. In industries where there is a risk of fire breaking out during normal operation, flame retardant clothing is often worn to reduce the risks associated with this hazard. Such clothing can be expensive to clean and replace. Sometimes, the person is protected by means of a cheaper, disposable coverall worn over the top. However, flame retardant (FR) coveralls can be heavy and uncomfortable, especially in warm environments.
For those who work in welding professions, arch flash over-trousers, vests and jackets are an essential part of work gear. The fabric on these clothing items is very thick and durable, flame resistant and essential to prevent serious burns. Along with the overalls, trousers and jackets an arch flash hood, balaclava or helmet is also an essential component. The advantage of the hoods and balaclavas over the helmets is they provide a longer neck covering that fully protects the welder from burns. Some of these hoods have the option to have a built in air system, important for specific types of welding and for work in confined areas.
It is sometimes difficult to understand exactly what level of protection is best for employees without understanding the risks.
The effectiveness of various combinations of coveralls in limiting flame spread, with specific reference to the following questions:
• Does the use of a disposable FR coverall impair the effectiveness of an FR coverall worn underneath?
• Does the use of an FR disposable coverall provide effective protection from flame spread with a non-FR coverall beneath?
• Is the effectiveness of an FR coverall impaired when a disposable non-FR coverall is used over the top?
• Could a disposable FR coverall be used without any form of additional protection, thereby limiting the potential for heat stress?
Suggestion
The only single-layer sample to pass the criteria for limited flame spread listed in BS EN 531:1995 was the Proban-treated flame retardant coverall. Therefore, none of the other coveralls should be worn singly in areas where there is a risk of fire. Reduction of heat stress potential by moving from the use of conventional, reusable coveralls to disposables does not seem to be practicable.
Using a disposable flame retardant garment to protect and prevent soiling of a reusable FR coverall appears practicable and safe in terms of limiting flame spread. However, this configuration may significantly increase the potential for wearers to suffer thermal stress.
Dual layers of coveralls (disposable worn over non-disposable) should not be worn in areas where flame retardant clothing is required unless both coveralls are flame retardant.