Safety magazine | Carlotta Cocco

In the world of occupational safety, there is a persistent myth that is difficult to dispel: the idea that PPE must last indefinitely. In reality, a glove showing signs of wear is a glove that has fulfilled its primary purpose: it has absorbed the risk in place of the worker’s hand. For a Health and Safety Manager or a safety officer, recognising when a piece of equipment has reached the end of its useful life is not just a matter of compliance, but a strategic choice to prevent accidents and optimise business costs. Here are the 5 key signs that it is time to replace it. The 5 warning signs that it’s time to replace them 1. Loss of integrity (holes or cuts) Even the smallest tear can be fatal. In a heat-resistant or cryogenic glove, the continuity of the material is what guarantees insulation. A hole creates a ‘thermal bridge’: in the presence of radiant heat or molten metal splashes, the energy concentrates precisely in the tear, rendering the protection ineffective. 2. Stiffening or “Vitrification” Continuous exposure to extreme temperatures tends to dry out materials. If the glove becomes stiff and surface cracks appear, it has lost its ability to deform and absorb energy. The loss of dexterity also drastically increases the likelihood of manual errors. 3. Failure of Kevlar® seams Coval Safety gloves use Kevlar® yarn to withstand extreme stresses. However, if the fingers begin to ‘split’ at the sides due to mechanical rubbing, protection is compromised. The glove is no longer able to distribute tension and heat correctly. 4. Deep contamination by oils and greases A glove impregnated with oily substances changes its physical properties: it may become flammable or lose the grip necessary for safe handling. If the contamination reaches the inner lining, the PPE must be disposed of to avoid dermatitis and the risk of combustion. 5. Exceeding the technical lifespan In addition to visible wear and tear, the ageing of polymers and internal membranes must be taken into account. PPE that has been stored for too long or washed beyond the permitted number of cycles may no longer meet the performance levels stated in the CE marking. Focus on Materials: how to identify wear and tear in Coval raw materials i usura: Comparsa di pilling eccessivo, sfilacciamento della trama o assottigliamento del tessuto. Perché sostituire: Lo sfilacciamento indica che le fibre si sono spezzate. In questo stato, il guanto perde i suoi livelli certificati di resistenza al taglio e la sua capacità di bloccare il calore convettivo. Se la trama si apre, la barriera protettiva non esiste più. Tessuto Aramidico Alluminizzato Questo materiale è progettato per riflettere il calore radiante. La sua efficacia dipende totalmente dall'integrità della superficie a specchio. Ensuring the effectiveness of the products in use requires in-depth knowledge of the raw materials. Monitoring how Coval’s technical materials react to stress allows for prompt intervention, ensuring that protection is always optimal. Here are the key signs to look out for: Leather (Full-grain and Split) Leather is an exceptional organic material, but it undergoes structural degradation when subjected to thermal stress. Signs of wear: The leather appears dry, hardened or shows signs of ‘cracking’ (deep cracks). Why replace: When leather loses its natural flexibility, it becomes brittle. Vitrified leather no longer insulates properly and may suddenly split during a manoeuvre, exposing the hand to direct heat. Aramid Fabric (Kevlar®) Aramid fabrics are renowned for their resistance to cuts and heat, but they suffer from prolonged mechanical friction. Signs of wear: Excessive pilling, fraying of the weave or thinning of the fabric. Why replace: Fraying indicates that the fibres have broken. In this state, the glove loses its certified levels of cut resistance and its ability to block convective heat. If the weave opens up, the protective barrier no longer exists. Aluminised Aramid Fabric This material is designed to reflect radiant heat. Its effectiveness depends entirely on the integrity of the ‘mirror’ surface. Signs of wear: Peeling or scratching of the aluminium film. If you start to see the underlying aramid fabric (usually yellow) through the silver coating, the PPE has reached the end of its service life. Why replace: A scratched aluminised PPE stops reflecting infrared rays and starts absorbing them. This causes a sudden rise in internal temperature, exposing the operator to severe burns in foundries or steelworks. Inherently Flame-Retardant Fabric (PROWEAR D3 and E3 Range) Unlike treated fabrics, the protective properties are inherent to the fibre: resistance to flames and molten metal splashes (Aluminium D3 and Iron E3) is permanent and does not diminish with washing. Signs of wear: Thinning of the fabric, holes caused by mechanical impact, tears, or reflective strips that have become dull and detached. Why replace: The integrity of the garment is essential to ensure that molten metal can slide off without adhering. Holes or tears negate the mechanical barrier, whilst an excessive build-up of oil or unremoved dirt can create a flammable layer on top of the flame-retardant fibre, compromising the operator’s safety.Una scelta strategica Monitoring these indicators is not just a regulatory requirement, but a strategic decision aimed at safeguarding business productivity and the well-being of your workforce. PPE that wears out is PPE that has done its job properly, protecting your team. Contact us for a consultation or to discuss the replacement plan best suited to your operational needs.

Our Authors

Carlotta Cocco

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