Body Protection

Body protection is designed to reduce occupational exposure to hazards that may affect the skin, clothing, or whole body. Depending on the material and design, protective garments may provide resistance to dust, liquid splashes, hazardous chemicals, heat, flames, molten particles, or electrical arc exposure. No single garment protects against every hazard. Technical performance depends on fabric composition, coating, seam construction, closures, garment design, breathability, durability, and the certified protection level. Selection should follow a documented assessment of the substance or energy involved and the expected exposure route.

Applications include chemical processing, pharmaceutical and laboratory work, industrial cleaning, painting, firefighting, hot work, electrical maintenance, and operations involving dust or contamination. Chemical protective clothing must be compatible with the specific chemical and concentration, including the potential for permeation through the material or leakage through seams and closures. Heat- and flame-resistant garments must be appropriate for the type and duration of thermal exposure. Arc-rated clothing is selected according to the electrical risk assessment and should be used as part of a compatible ensemble.