Safety Apparel & FR Clothing in the Mining World
Canada is a world leader in the production of Potash. With a long history of mining innovation, Canadian producers have developed a standard of excellence second to none. Mining has long been viewed as a dangerous work environment and Potash mines are no exception. A great deal of time, effort, and resources have been invested by the Potash industry to address and improve the safety of each mine site. Safety on the job cannot be overstated, and that’s apparent the minute you step through the security gates of any of the many Potash sites in Canada.
As a manufacturer of personal protective equipment, better known as PPE, MWG Apparel has been instrumental in the development of arc-rated clothing programs for electric utilities and industrial workplaces. As a trusted and knowledgeable supplier of PPE in Canada, MWG’s involvement has aided in the development and the implementation of a new era for PPE in the mining industry.
For decades, “safety first” has been the standard mantra for Canadian workplaces, yet only since 2005 has the mining industry in Canada begun to transition to appropriate safety apparel. Cotton-based clothing was common in the workplace, without a standard for a high-visibility reflective configuration. Mining operations are full of hazardous conditions and the risk to workers health and safety cannot be compromised with ineffective PPE.
A Risk Hazard Assessment by the Potash industry identified the need for Category 2, Arc-Flash compliant clothing. With the introduction of Bill C-45, electrical utilities had fully transitioned to arc-rated PPE by the early 2000’s, and the Potash industry was set to follow suit.
Potash mining posed unique challenges however, and careful consideration had to be taken before the introduction of a new safety program.
Potash working environments vary. Some workers are on the surface, some in the mill, and some underground. Like the variety of jobs on a mine site, there’s a variety of clothing options appropriate for any given situation. That’s not to say each situation should receive its own custom program, but rather a proper and thorough consultation to determine how to maximize the most effective safety program for the overall environment. To guarantee a successful delivery and implementation of a new safety program in the Potash sector:
· Safety must always be the priority
· All stakeholders must be involved in development and implementation
· Safety apparel must be a great fit & comfortable
· Designs must consider all requirements and standards
· Fabrics must endure the tough environment
· Demand continuous innovation and improvements from your supplier
Paying close attention to these criteria resulted in MWG’s development of lightweight arc-rated fabrics with thermal-regulating and moisture-wicking properties, giving mines the opportunity to outfit their employees in clothing that provided exceptional comfort. In addition to comfort, these lightweight fabrics had become increasingly safe, reaching protection levels only ever seen in heavier-weight items. These developments helped to address the issue of extreme heat in underground mines.
The comfort and safety of our arc-rated fabrics had become the preferred choice in the mines, as had the design of the garments. The importance of well-fitting clothing is known by all, but is especially important when being worn for protective purposes.
Finding proper-fitting PPE has been identified by many women as a significant struggle when entering a male-dominated sector. Women in Mining has created new opportunities for young women moving into trade and technical roles. Great wages and benefits, and the opportunity to have a long sustainable career, is attractive for any young adult entering the labour force.
MWG has recognized the movement of more women into the industrial workforce, and has developed women’s styles for all of their custom programs. Although a challenging endeavour, it has led to the production of new fabrics and designs, enhancing both safety and comfort. The response has been remarkable, as employees and employers are relieved to have finally found safe and comfortable PPE for women that actually fits. Securing a quality and reliable supply of women’s specific PPE will make the world of difference in the recruitment and retention of young women in trade and technical roles.
At MWG, we listen to and understand the needs of different sectors and different perspectives. Our 94 year history has allowed us to play a leading role in the implementation of safety programs across Canada, and has helped us navigate through an ever-changing landscape.
Our commitment to health and safety, and our goal to ensure everyone returns home at the end of each day, has been a catalyst for improved safety records throughout Canada. We are proud to have played even a small role in the reduction of workplace injuries.