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FAQ’s

FAQ’s on Head Protection:

Ans. When it comes to helmets, the number of points used to secure the helmet is not necessarily an indicator of its effectiveness or safety. The number of attachment points may vary depending on the type and purpose of the helmet.  

The first main difference between these models is the amount of suspension each helmet contains; the 4pt models have only two straps on each side for a total of 4pt while the 6pt models have 3 straps per each side. Although both deemed safe by the certifying bodies, a person should look into what type of work will be done to determine which helmet to wear. 6pt suspension models offer superior protection in regard to blows in which the lateral side of the head comes in contact, or the blow comes from an off-centre axis, whereas 4pt models offer good coverage for the side of the head with superior protection for the front and top. 

Ans. When stored in ideal conditions away from direct sunlight and humidity, the shelf life of a SafeKraft Safety Helmet can go up to 5 years. 

Ans. Safety helmets should be cleaned with warm water and soap, on a regular basis. It must be stored in a clean dry area away from sunlight, not subjected to extremes of heat, cold or humidity. Replace the helmet immediately, if it is cracked, dented or shows any signs of wear and tear. 

Ans. Helmet should adhere to the following colour scheme on sites:  
White – for site managers, foremen, engineers, or supervisors  
Yellow – for construction industry 
Blue – for carpenters and other technical operators 
Green- for safety inspectors
Orange – for lifting operatives, crane operator 
Red – for fire marshals, Electricians.


FAQ’s on Eye & Face Protection:  

Ans. Certified eye and face protectors will always have certification marking stamped or engraved on the lenses, frames (front and temples).

Ans. Clean safety eyewear with lint free cloth only along with lens cleaning liquid. Store eye protection preferably in a clean dust-proof case. Replace the safety eyewear if lenses are scratched or pitted. 

Ans. Yes, the employee who wears prescription lenses while engaged in operations that involve eye hazards must wear eye protection that incorporates the prescription in its design or wear the safety eyewear that can be worn over the prescription lenses without disturbing the position of the prescription lenses. SafeKraft offers SKG-104 AF spectacle for this purpose. This can easily be fit over most prescription spectacles and provides optimum protection against harmful radiations as well. 

Ans. Polycarbonate, by its nature, filters 99.9% UV rays. In that way, all SafeKraft spectacles have UV protection. 

Ans. The indoor/outdoor spectacle with a slight tinted coating makes the user comfortable both in the outdoor and indoor light. So that is the most suitable spectacle for your work. SafeKraft offers SKG-102 for this application. 

Ans. Polycarbonate lenses get scratched due to its physical property and the working conditions where we use it. So, to minimize scratches, and to provide durability and longevity to the lens, a high quality thermally cured chemical coating is done which is called hard coating. 


FAQ’s on Ear Protection:

Ans. Sound-level meters measure noise levels which are represented in decibels or dBA. The higher the noise level, the louder the noise. You can listen to sounds at 70 dBA or lower, as long as you want. Sounds at 85 dBA can lead to hearing loss if you listen to them for more than 8 hours at a time. Sounds over 85 dBA can damage your hearing faster. The safe listening time is cut in half for every 3 dB rise in noise levels over 85 dBA. 

Ans. Ear plugs are an ideal choice for ear protection during long hours of exposure in areas prone to a high decibel sound. They are inserted inside your ear, with the purpose of blocking your ear canal. Earmuffs are versatile, apt for usage during a shorter duration of exposure to unwanted sound and come with different features, like helmet-mountable, foldable etc. 


FAQ’s on Respiratory Protection:

Ans. Face respirators are considered respiratory protection. If worn correctly, these respirators offer excellent protection against air contaminants, viruses, micro-organisms, dust, smoke etc. due to their advanced filter material and snug fit feature. A surgical mask is meant to be used by medical personnel during surgeries and provide optimum level of protection from droplets, splashes, sprays or splatter that may contain germs. 

Ans. Whether you can reuse your face mask depends on the type of mask you are using. Here are some general guidelines:

 

·        Surgical masks should be discarded after each use and not reused.

·        N95 and FFP masks can be worn for up to 8-12 hours before needing to be discarded or replaced.


FAQ’s on Foot Protection:

Ans. Yes, a certified safety shoe will always have certification marking on it. 

Ans. A safety shoe has toe protection caps made of steel/fibre. The sole of the safety shoe has been designed to provide higher grip to the floor and withstand penetration of sharp objects and heat. Regular shoes do not have these safety features. 

Ans. There are two kinds of toes in safety shoes- Steel toe made from carbon steel and Composite toe made from high strength polymer. These toe caps meet the EN Standards of EN 12568.

Ans. SafeKraft safety shoes with composite toe cap can provide protection against electrical hazards. We manufacture Electrical Shoes in different capacities like 11 Kv, 15 Kv & sometimes upto 18 Kv.

Ans. The sole of a safety shoe is a crucial component that plays several important roles in protecting the wearer’s feet and ensuring their comfort during long hours of work. Here’s a breakdown of the different layers and their functions:

The outsole is the layer in direct contact with the floor, and it is designed to offer excellent abrasion and slip resistance, penetration protection, and shock absorption.

The midsole is located above the outsole and gives the shoe strength and durability, helping to protect the wearer’s feet from impacts and other hazards.

The insole is the layer in contact with the foot, through the insole, and provides additional cushioning and support for the wearer’s feet. This layer helps to prevent fatigue during long hours of work and ensures the wearer’s comfort. 

Ans. Yes, there are shoes with very good formal look and safety features including steel or fibre composite toe. There are also sporty looking safety shoes. SafeKraft offers a wide range of formal and sporty look safety shoes.

Ans. 

  • Wipe your shoes regularly with dry cotton cloth to remove the dust accumulating on the upper surface of leather.
  • Use wax polish on your leather shoes at least once in a week. This increases the shoe life by penetrating the leather surface and protects from moisture or water spills. Suede leather shoes should be polished/cleaned using suede leather cream which is available at all footwear stores.
  • Even water repellent shoes are not waterproof, so avoid getting your shoes drenched. If they do become wet, immediately soak up the moisture inside-out using newspaper and allow to air-dry.
  • Shoes should always be stored in a clean box or in their original shoe boxes. 

Ans. Due to the property of PU, safety shoes should always be used after purchase as soon as possible. If it is stocked for a long time, sole breakage and separation can occur due to a condition called Hydrolysis. Polyurethane, the chemical used in the making of safety shoes soles, is a highly climate sensitive chemical and can react in different ways due to long duration storage, due to ventilation related issues, etc.

Ans. No, there are exclusive models for women designed to provide comfort according to their foot anatomy. The sizes also different for men and women. SafeKraft offers two exclusive safety shoe models for women. 

Ans. Having the right equipment is key to serve the intended purpose, and hiking/trekking is no exception. If you don’t have traditional hiking boots, wearing work safety shoes can be a viable option. However, it is always advisable to wear the special-purpose trekking boots. SafeKraft does manufacture few safety shoes which can be an option for trekking shoes.

Ans. The safety shoes you choose will depend on the area of application and level of protection you need while taking into account comfort and aesthetics as well. Also, remember to buy a certified safety shoe only. SafeKraft offers consultation before sales for selection of the right safety shoes depending on the nature of work and application at your workplace. The founder and director of SafeKraft is a trained footwear specialist and carries enormous experience in safety footwear.

Ans. Different types of shoe outsoles are as follows: Polyurethane (PU), Polyurethane (PU)/Polyurethane (PU), /Nitrile Rubber, Polyurethane (PU) / Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA)/ Nitrile.

Ans. Shoes having single density sole are injection moulded once onto the shoe. Single density outsole imparts high level of energy absorption. Shoes having double density sole are injection moulded twice onto the shoe. These double density outsoles offer excellent abrasion resistance, slip resistance, extra comfort and flexibility.

Ans. These are the protection classes offered by EN ISO 20345 standards. This merely refers to the extent of a hazard to which the shoe protects against.

 

S1 – Along with basic toe protection and slip-resistant sole, S1 shoes also have antistatic protection, is oil resistant and offers energy absorption in the heel. Other safety features may be added.

S2 – All the features of S1, along with waterproof exterior so prevents water penetration and offers absorption in the upper shoe.

S3 – All the features of S2, along with midsole penetration resistance. In simple words, these shoes are puncture proof. For example, a steel midsole prevents sharp objects from piercing through the sole. 


FAQ’s on Body Protection/Workwear:

Ans. Workwear refers to clothing specifically designed to be worn while working, typically to provide protection, durability and comfort for the wearer. It is made to withstand the demands of various occupations and industries, ensuring that employees can perform their tasks safely and efficiently. Workwear often adheres to industry-specific regulations and standards, which may vary depending on the nature of the work being performed.

Common examples of workwear include:

  1. Construction Industry: High-Visibility Reflective Vests, Cotton Coveralls, Work Jacket & Pants.
  2. Healthcare Industry: Lab Coats & Protective Coveralls.
  3. Food/Hospitality Industry: Chef’s uniform and aprons.
  4. Protective Workwear for Steel/Cement/Off-Shore/General manufacturing industries: Coveralls, FR Coveralls, Aluminized Coveralls, PVC Suits, Arc Flash Protection Suits, Welding Garments, Hoods, etc.

The most comfortable workwear depends on individual preferences and the specific requirements of a job. Comfort in workwear is influenced by factors such as fabric, fit, design, and functionality. Here are some general guidelines to consider when seeking comfortable workwear:

  1. Material: Choose breathable and lightweight fabrics, such as cotton, polyester blends, or moisture-wicking materials, that allow air circulation and help to regulate body temperature.
  2. Fit: Ensure the workwear fits properly, allowing for ease of movement without being too tight or too loose. Adjustable features, such as elastic waistbands or adjustable cuffs, can provide additional comfort.
  3. Design: Ergonomic designs, such as articulated knees or gusseted crotches in pants, can improve comfort by providing a better range of motion. Additionally, workwear designed specifically for men or women may offer a more comfortable fit due to gender-specific tailoring.
  4. Functionality: Workwear with functional features, such as utility pockets or reinforced areas for added durability, can contribute to comfort by making it easier to carry tools and perform tasks efficiently.
  1. Understand job requirements: Assess the specific needs of your job, including potential workplace hazards, environmental factors, and physical demands. This will help you identify the necessary protective features, materials, and designs your workwear should have.
  2. Prioritise comfort and fit: Select workwear that fits properly and allows for ease of movement without being too tight or too loose. Comfortable workwear contributes to productivity and reduces fatigue. Consider trying on different sizes and styles to find the best fit.
  3. Choose appropriate materials: Opt for durable, high-quality materials that can withstand the rigours of your work environment. Depending on the job, materials should be resistant to wear and tear, stains, or even flame and chemicals.
  4. Evaluate design and functionality: Look for workwear with ergonomic designs that allow for flexibility and ease of movement. Additional features, such as utility pockets or tool loops, can enhance functionality and make it easier to carry necessary tools and equipment.
  5. Invest in quality: While high-quality workwear may have a higher initial cost, it is more likely to provide better protection, durability, and comfort, saving you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
  1. Thermal Protective Clothing: This type of clothing is designed to protect against heat and flames. It is commonly used in industries where workers are exposed to high temperatures, such as firefighting, foundries, and welding.
  2. Chemical Protective Clothing: This type of clothing is designed to protect against chemical hazards. It is commonly used in industries such as chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and laboratories where workers may be exposed to hazardous chemicals.
  3. Biological Protective Clothing: This type of clothing is designed to protect against biological hazards such as viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms. It is commonly used in industries such as healthcare, food processing, and laboratories.

The treated FR fabrics such as cotton, cotton-polyesters or cotton-nylon mixes are textiles applied with flame retardant chemicals in order to achieve flame retardancy. After treatment, these fabrics then possess self-extinguishing qualities and are used to minimize the damage caused by an accident with heat and flame. Treated FR fabrics retain their protective qualities given they are used and laundered according to recommendations. But in general the protective properties of Treated FR Fabric are for a limited time period or limited wash cycles.

An inherently resistant fabric is made from a manmade fiber or a blend of fibers that is not flammable itself and possesses resistance to heat and flame. Inherent fibers are made by adding fire resistant compounds in the initial stage of fiber production, or that the fiber itself is developed as a flame resistant fiber.

These fabrics retain their resistance qualities for life and protection cannot be removed or washed away over time.

Unfortunately, there is no straight answer to this question. It mostly depends on the industry and the preferences of the users. However, to help you choose between the two, SafeKraft has listed some typical pros and cons for each below:

  1. FR Treated

Pros: Very good protection against molten metal, good protection against heat and ARC, relatively cheap, good value for money in dirty environments where expected lifespan is not very long.

Cons: Wash fastness is typically not very good (pale look after several washes), to achieve similar FR properties as inherent FR the fabrics typically become a bit heavier and therefore tend to be a bit less comfortable.

  1. Inherent FR

Pros: Excellent heat and ARC protection, excellent colour fastness even after numerous washings hence good cost in use performance, typically lighter weight solutions with excellent comfort levels, typically used in less dirty environments where the corporate look is also important.

Cons: Limited protection against molten metal splash, typically a more expensive fabric than FR treated.

  1. EN ISO 11612: Protective clothing against Heat & Flame. It includes number of qualities like – Heat Resistance, Limited Flame Spread & Heat Transfer.
  2. EN ISO 11612 Code Letters –
  • Code Letter A indicates the garment meets the requirement for limited flame spread.
  • Code Letter B indicates the garment meets the requirement for convective heat.
  • Code Letter C indicates the garment meets the requirement for Radiant Heat.
  • Code Letter D indicates the garment meets the requirement for Molten Aluminium Splash.
  • Code Letter E indicates the garment meets the requirement for Molten Iron Splash.
  • Code Letter F indicates the garment meets the requirement for Contact Heat.
  1. EN ISO 11611: Protective clothing for use in welding and allied processes. Heat & Flame. It includes number of qualities like – Small splashes of Molten, Short contact time with flame and radiant heat from ARC.
  2. NFPA 2112: Standard for flame resistant garments for protection of industrial personnel against flash fire.
  3. NFPA 70E: Requirements for safe work practices to protect personnel by reducing exposure to major electrical hazards.
  4. ASTM F2621: Standard Practice for Determining Response Characteristics and Design Integrity of Arc Rated Finished Products in an Electric Arc Exposure.
  5. ASTM 1959: Standard Test Method for Determining the Arc Rating of Materials for Clothing.
  6. EN 1149: Electrostatic properties of a protective garment.
  7. EN 471: These are standards for High-Visibility Garments.

In any case, please contact Team SafeKraft and understand your protective clothing requirement directly from the experts.


FAQ’s on Fall Protection:

Ans. SafeKraft harnesses undergo rigorous testing and meet safety standards for use in potentially hazardous environments. These harnesses are tested as per procedures laid down in the relevant EN/ISI standards to sustain a static load of 15 KN for 3 minutes without showing any signs of damage to the webbing or metal parts. 

Ans. When stored in ideal conditions the shelf life of SafeKraft harnesses extends up to 5 years.  

Ans. SafeKraft harnesses are tested on 100 kg dummy mass when using a maximum 2m lanyard. 

Ans. A shock-absorbing lanyard absorbs shock during the fall arrest and it ensures to limit force to less than 6kN. 

Ans. Not all fall protection harnesses can be used for rescue. For carrying out rescue activities, the harness should have attachment points on sternal and ventral position along with attachment point on dorsal position. 

Ans. In case of minor soiling, wipe the full body harness with cotton cloth or a soft brush. Do not use any abrasive material. For intensive cleaning wash the harness in water at a temperature not more than 40ºC using a neutral detergent (pH7). Do not use acid or basic detergents. Follow the washing instructions mentioned in the user instructions manual without any deviations.