Fabrics that repel

When exposures to hazardous chemicals cannot be eliminated through engineering changes, substitution of different materials, or implementation of alternative work practices, chemical protective clothing offers the last line of defense. No single material provides protection against all chemicals, and selection of the appropriate CPC is governed by the nature of the hazard, the chemical resistance properties of the protective material and the conditions under which the equipment will be used. Merely making protective equipment available to employees is not sufficient. The equipment must be properly selected, used and maintained. Torn suits or punctured gloves, for instance, do not provide very much protection. A good protective clothing program must also include provisions for employee training and ongoing supervision.