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Aluminised Clothing – when should it be worn?

Aluminised clothing is a form of personal protective equipment (PPE) that is designed to protect the wearer from two common types of risk which occur in the foundry and castings industry: molten metal splashes, and radiant heat. Unprotected, these can lead to burns and thermal stress injuries.

When should aluminised clothing be worn?

Aluminised clothing is designed to be worn on top of the normal molten metal protective garments worn every day, and it may only be put on during the highest risk activities (for example pouring), if protection needs to be improved. It should be thought of as an outer shell, worn with an underlayer of protection – the skin should never be the second line of defence.

What does aluminised clothing protect against?

Both molten metal splash and radiant heat can cause serious injuries. Aluminised clothing reflects more than 90 per cent of radiant heat, and the smooth surface finish allows molten metal splashes to slide off quickly instead of sticking and increasing the burn risk.

The level of protection needed depends on the activity and the level of risk involved. Aluminised clothing may take the form of an apron, gaiters, and gloves, through to jacket, trousers, long coat or full hood.

Are there differences to look out for?

Yes, all aluminised clothing is not made equal. Depending on the type of molten metal, different EN ISO 11612 standards may need to be met. Even though the temperature of molten iron is higher than molten aluminium, (around 1500°C vs 800°C) aluminium is very viscous and a splash easily clings to materials, meaning a higher standard garment needs to be worn when working with molten aluminium.

The type of fabric may also be different. It is often an aramid style blend with an aluminised coating but can also come in more supple and lightweight forms – MF Safety supplies a new style called AluSoft which may be considered instead of the more traditional heavyweight garments. Both versions can be lined with a flame-retardant material which increases the contact heat resistance.

How do I know which type I need?

There are many types of PPE on the market, each giving different protection levels suited for different tasks. It’s the responsibility of the employer to make sure the PPE is fit for purpose, as well as providing instructions on safe use and ensuring it is maintained properly. Collaborating with a reputable supplier of PPE and safety clothing makes the process easier!

MF Safety can help

The correct protection is needed for every task; whether welding, pouring, grinding or reclaiming sand. 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 and has successfully supplied multiple sectors across the UK over this time.

Working with well reputed global suppliers, the company provides 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 supplies 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]

web: www.mfsafety.co.uk