Focus on cutting injuries
July 1st 2005

Determined to reduce accidents to workers at its float glass manufacturing site, Pilkington has introduced a range of protective workwear made of DuPont Kevlar.

Molten glass at 1000°C is poured continuously from a furnace onto a shallow bath of molten tin. It floats, spreads out and forms a level surface. After annealing, the glass emerges as a "fire" polished product with virtually parallel surfaces.

Dave Donkin and David Ash, UK health and safety managers at the site, say "When workers are exposed to the high temperatures of the melting furnace, there is potential for burn injury and when handling glass products, there is a high risk of cuts and abrasion.

"Kevlar gloves provide superior cut and heat resistance in addition to light-weight and increased flexibility for improved manual dexterity.

To further reduce injuries, Pilkington is developing full body protection that incorporates Kevlar fibre. Co-operation between DuPont Personal Protection, Pilkington and fabric producer Dale Techniche, has resulted in the development of Chieftain sweat-shirts and jackets using Kevlar fibre. These combine comfort, low weight and Level 5 cut resistance.

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