By April 2019 all cut rated gloves need to be tested using the TDM-100 test introduced in the 2016 update of the Standard. But why? Over the last decade, anti-cut fibre technology has advanced to the point where the blade used in the coupe test (see graphic below) is blunted leading to inconsistent readings. The TDM-100 test is closer to...
In November 2016, the EN388 standard was updated to offer more consistent testing and as a result of the development of numerous new materials. This piece of legislation provides information about the mechanical resistance of safety gloves, based on abrasion, cut, tear and puncture resistance. It also tests impact protection. It is easy to spot gloves that conform to the...
The workplace can present many hazards for unprotected hands. From exposure to chemicals, cuts and burns, serious damage can occur if the correct glove is not worn at all times to protect skin from harm. Unsurprisingly, no single glove can provide optimal performance for every work situation. It is therefore important to carefully assess the risks involved with each task...
To ensure correct specification and reduce the risk of the wearer removing their glasses, consider the following tips 1. Environment First and foremost, start by assessing exactly what the risks are in the working environment. This will help to narrow down the potential eyewear options by determining whether you need to choose a goggle style, or a spectacle style. Depending...
Workplace eye injuries can be life changing, yet despite safety eyewear being one of the of the most important pieces of PPE, a ‘one size fits all’ approach is often wrongly taken. Eyewear is compulsory for a wide-range of sectors, but poorly specified glasses can cause the user discomfort and ultimately lead to non-compliance. For any business, the objective should...
According to a survey by Supertouch®, 49% of workers only look to replace boots once they are ‘worn out’. Worryingly, this could be dramatically reducing the protective qualities of the safety shoes, making them unfit for use and increasing the risk of injury. We therefore recommend replacing boots if there is any damage to toe caps, fastening systems or once...
Setting the Standard Once the shoe has been appropriately matched to the environment, checking the relevant protection standards and overall fit for the wearer should be the next consideration. To ensure only the fittest footwear is selected, there are a variety of safety classifications and codes to consider during the specification process. BS EN ISO 20345:2011 is the current standard...
Despite being one of the most preventable workplace accidents, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that slips and trips are the most common cause of injuries to employees. Research also conducted by the HSE found that these slips and trips cost UK businesses a staggering £500m a year in injury claims, investigation time, production delays and plant damage. But...
Site safety is one of, if not the, most important aspects of working within the commercial and industrial sector. PPE is intrinsic to safe working practice on site – yet it can often be misused, misunderstood or missed-off completely. Ross Oates, Project Manager for housebuilder St Joseph (Berkeley Group) explains more. From caps and coats through to goggles and gloves, PPE is...
Supertouch's Guide to helping you make the right choices when supplying PPE and workwear Foreward For starters, when it comes to specifying and purchasing PPE products, the phrase ‘one size fits all’ simply doesn’t apply. Every industry, from construction to the food sector, has specific requirements and guidelines to adhere to that will ultimately influence what kit is required to...
