Visionary? Absolutely. Far removed from practice? Not at all.

The nine students from the West Saxon University of Applied Sciences Zwickau, Faculty of Applied Arts Schneeberg, developed and produced the innovative concepts themselves. There has been a successful collaboration between the university and Gore for more than two decades. The Putzbrunn-based company is widely known as a manufacturer of GORE-TEX materials. These materials can be found in a wide range of products such as jackets, pants, shoes and gloves - for both leisure and work.

"Our fabrics are known for their outstanding properties such as waterproofness and breathability. In addition, some materials offer protection against flames, pathogens or are characterized by special stretchability. I am impressed by how remarkably the designs bring these properties to bear," explains Susanne Wisbrun, clothing specialist at Gore.

The requirements in occupational safety are very specific. For example, a track worker needs flame-retardant material to protect him from the dangerous electric arcs that can be caused by high currents. A bicycle courier, on the other hand, needs optimum protection from wind and rain. GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics specializes in this type of protection.

But what about the market maturity of these visionary concepts? Some of the prototypes could find their way into series production if demand and technical requirements allow. "The collaboration with the students offers us new perspectives and fresh ideas that we can incorporate into future product developments with our customers," adds Wisbrun.

The HighVis jacket for electrical fitters in the railroad sector offers comprehensive protection against train collisions, high-voltage burns and injuries from falls from great heights. Self-luminous LEDs, flame-retardant materials and an integrated airbag are fully integrated. The inspiration and valuable feedback came from Alina Negwer's father, who works in this field himself.

The Oceanic Lifeline model, on the other hand, aims to raise awareness of sea rescue. The jacket combines an unusual design with practical safety at sea and has an integrated lifejacket. "Rescue missions at sea are more important than ever in times of boats carrying refugees. That's why my design is also a personal appeal to politicians to do more here," says creator Laura Stryczek.

"The students learn to create the concepts themselves from the initial idea to the finished design and to present them to an audience - valuable experience for their future careers," explains Dorette Bárdos, the supervising professor. 

Today in Schneeberg, tomorrow perhaps in Putzbrunn at Gore.

Putzbrunn (February 23, 2024) - The innovative EXTRAGUARD upper material technology for police boots is lightweight, yet robust and noticeably more comfortable to wear: GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD police boots remain lightweight even when emergency services have to stand out in the rain for several hours at a demonstration, for example. The innovative upper material is also flame-retardant. At Enforce Tac 2024 (February 26 to 28) in Nuremberg, Gore will be presenting police boots from leading manufacturers with GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD upper technology for the first time.

Police forces need robust, waterproof, and breathable footwear that reliably protects them in all weather conditions and during dangerous operations or demonstrations. Until now, the robustness and waterproofness of the boots have had a significant influence on comfort - conventional police boots are rather heavy. As the product's service life increases, they can lose their waterproofing, meaning that conventional upper material can become soaked in the rain, making the boots even heavier. Another challenge is the re-drying of soaked boots: it can take many hours before they are completely dry again. However, if they have to be worn again in the meantime, this can draw heat away from the foot and create cold bridges.

Is light, stays light and dries quickly

With EXTRAGUARD, GORE-TEX Professional has developed a completely new, sustainable outer material technology: it combines the advantages of robust leather with those of lightweight, flexible, and breathable textile outer materials. The technology consists of three layers: a highly abrasion-resistant and flame-retardant outer protective layer, a functional layer that protects against mechanical impacts and an innovative inner construction layer that absorbs hardly any water. When dry, the EXTRAGUARD outer material is 40% lighter than dry leather of the same thickness. It absorbs less moisture from the outside and remains dry and light even after prolonged exposure to water or loss of the initial impregnation. Moisture penetrates from the outside only as far as the inner construction layer of the EXTRAGUARD upper material and is then kept out by it. This minimises heat loss and prevents cold bridges, keeping feet dry and comfortably warm even in wet or cold conditions. The robust boots dry quickly, are ready for use again a few hours later and are comfortable to wear. In combination with the internal, waterproof, and breathable GORE-TEX lining, this means an enormous increase in protection and comfort for the police.

First models available on the market this year

"Our EXTRAGUARD upper technology is a real game changer for the police. At Enforce Tac, we will be presenting models for various areas of application, from very lightweight tactical to flame-resistant riot styles. The response has been great: a German police unit will soon be putting a model through its paces in tough everyday police work. The first models are expected to be available on the market before the end of this year," explains Johannes Krieg, Product Specialist at Gore.

High performance and reduced environmental impact

Function and performance have top priority at Gore because the company makes no compromises when it comes to protection and comfort. At the same time, EXTRAGUARD technology also sets new standards in terms of sustainability: the use of water and chemicals is minimized during production, and CO2 emissions are comparatively low. And finally, the longevity of the products also contributes to a better eco-balance.

Facts & figures about GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD technology

·        GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD combat boots are permanently waterproof and breathable. They exceed the required values in accordance with EN ISO 20345/347 many times over.

·        The abrasion-resistant upper material is 40% lighter than leather when dry. As it absorbs virtually no moisture from the outside, the GORE-TEX boot remains dry and light even after prolonged exposure to water or loss of the initial waterproofing.

·        Heat and flame resistance in accordance with DIN EN 15090: If these boots are exposed to an open flame for 10 seconds in accordance with DIN EN ISO 15025-A/DIN EN 15090, there is no afterburning.

Putzbrunn (February 23, 2024) - Days of deployment in the rain, cold and hardly any time to recover: General infantry and special units brave the toughest conditions on deployment. Only the best equipment meets the requirements: EXTRAGUARD upper technology enables a completely new class of GORE-TEX combat boots and combines the advantages of a robust upper material with those of lightweight, flexible, and breathable textiles for the first time. The boots are not only permanently waterproof, breathable, and flame-retardant, but also permanently lightweight - even after a long time in wet, muddy terrain - and dry again quickly afterwards. The EXTRAGUARD technology is also characterised by a low CO₂ footprint. The response from manufacturers has been great: just a few months after the technology launch, well-known Gore partners are showing the first styles of GORE-TEX EXTRAGUARD combat boots. 

Gore presents the EXTRAGUARD outer material technology at booth 7A-537 at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg from February 26 to 28, 2024.

Conventional military boots are rather heavy and not very comfortable. In addition, the water-repellent impregnation wears off as the product's service life increases: The longer the boots are exposed to moisture, the heavier the upper material becomes. They often take many hours to dry out again. If the boots have to be worn again when wet, this can draw heat from the body - resulting in cold feet.

Is light, stays light and dries quickly

EXTRAGUARD upper material sets new standards for combat boots: when dry, it is 40 percent lighter than dry leather of the same thickness. As EXTRAGUARD upper material absorbs less moisture from the outside, it remains light even when wet for long periods and dries considerably faster. EXTRAGUARD upper material is also flame-retardant.

Combination of EXTRAGUARD upper material and GORE-TEX bootie

The EXTRAGUARD upper material unfolds its full benefits in combination with the GORE SEAM® tape and the GORE-TEX bootie. The EXTRAGUARD outer material itself consists of three layers: a highly abrasion-resistant and flame-retardant outer protective layer, a functional layer for physical protection and a construction inner layer with low water absorption. During the manufacture of GORE-TEX combat boots, it is sealed with GORE SEAM® tape so that no moisture can penetrate through the seams. The upper material is integrated into the boot with the internal, waterproof, and breathable GORE-TEX bootie. The GORE-TEX bootie construction ensures that the boot is permanently waterproof, even if the water-repellent waterproofing wears off or the upper material is damaged.

Comfortable fit, easy cleaning, robust protection

The GORE-TEX combat boots prove themselves from the first minute of use: they are comfortable right from the start, do not need to be broken in and retain their shape. Their robustness offers reliable protection against sharp objects, common chemicals, and moisture. Care is extremely easy, simply rinse with water. Specific care products are not necessary. Even after months of wear in a wet environment, they remain permanently waterproof and breathable and exceed the required values in accordance with EN ISO 20345/347 many times over.

The result of years of research

"The EXTRAGUARD upper technology is the result of years of research and close collaboration with defense forces around the world," explains Martin Pfister, Product Specialist Defense Footwear at GORE-TEX Professional. "Initial feedback from military field tests in various challenging terrains confirm our laboratory results in the real world. Just a few months after the technology launch in October 2023, we have already been able to acquire well-known footwear partners who are evaluating the first models. This rapid implementation is the result of market demand and underlines the fact that we have hit a nerve with this technology."

High performance and reduced environmental impact

Function and performance have top priority at Gore because the company makes no compromises when it comes to protection and comfort. At the same time, EXTRAGUARD technology also sets new standards in terms of sustainability: the use of water and chemicals is minimized during production, and CO2 emissions are comparatively low. And finally, the longevity of the products also contributes to a better eco-balance.

Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry more than 40 years ago with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX fabric and continues to be a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore's products provide comfort and protection in demanding environments and everyday life, allowing wearers to achieve and experience more, safely, and confidently. From hiking in pouring rain to defense operations and firefighting, Gore's deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives the development of products with significant performance benefits. gore-tex.com and goretexprofessional.com

The specialist for technical functional textiles presents these system solutions at Enforce Tac 2024 in Nuremberg (February 26 - 28, 2024) at booth 7A 537.

Military clothing should always be considered as a system in which the layers are modular and compatible. This is the best way to equip soldiers for a wide range of conditions and situations, from arctic to the desert, from training and maneuvers to combat. Armies procure a toolbox of clothing and footwear that can be expanded and updated over time, where new technologies can be added to an existing clothing system over time - just like updating software.

Nordic Combat Uniform (NCU system) - from the Arctic to the desert and jungle

A prime example is the Scandinavian multinational combat clothing system, the Nordic Combat Uniform (NCU system). It was developed by the NCU group, including GORE-TEX Professional fabrics, for the Nordic Defense Cooperation (Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden). The system consists of several layers - from underwear to an insulated jacket - that work together to create a garment that is more than the sum of its parts. The NCU system is designed so that there are some core garments that are always worn, and then the user selects reinforcing garments either under or on top of the basic configuration, depending on the climatic conditions and mission profile.

GORE-TEX Technologies for the Highest Levels of Protection

Gore’s laminates for military clothing systems can be flexibly equipped with proven GORE-TEX technologies to ensure highest fit-for-use – be it mid-layer, outer layer or high insulation layer: 

GORE-TEX membrane for durably waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection, WINDSTOPPER® fabric technology by GORE-TEX LABS for total windproofness, and insulation protection, PYRAD® technology for heat, flame and flash-fire protection and GORE-TEX Stretch product technology for optimal freedom of movement.

Gore’s extensive biophysics lab capabilities ensure performance

While each element of such military clothing systems must perform on its own, the key to overall performance lies in the interoperability of the individual elements of the system. "Even with computer simulations, real-world performance requires solid data from labs and field tests. Gore has a wide range of biophysics lab capabilities, including durability and wet labs, a rain tower, and an environmental and comfort chamber, which sets us apart from the competition," says Oliver Opitz, product specialist at Gore for the Armed Forces. Staying with the example of the Northern Combat Uniform, the system has been extensively tested in Gore's laboratories to ensure that it meets or exceeds performance requirements. But nothing beats testing by soldiers in the field. The feedback from these extensive field tests confirms that the system's fabric is doing what it was designed to do: The highest level of protection and comfort in the roughest of conditions and missions.

Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX Fabric more than 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to defense operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages. gore-tex.com and goretexprofessional.com

In Iceland, volcano eruptions are more commonplace as the last one erupted just a few months ago. While these spectacular eruptions are a marvel to view the power of nature in action, the dangerous conditions created by these eruptions put first responders and others at risk of injury. Working in these and other extreme conditions, the Icelandic search and rescue force ICE-SAR is protected by GORE-TEX product technology and always ready to step in and do what is necessary to protect people. Watch the work of ICE-SAR captured through the lens of Siggi.

The local ICE-SAR team in Grindavík, close to an active volcano site, is busy night and day. With the help from teams all over Iceland, they respond to callouts in the area, undergoing rigorous search and rescue missions alongside other challenging tasks in the uncertain first few weeks of an eruption. These members of the Grindavík team are on a regular patrolling mission in the first days of the eruption.

Thousands of ill-equipped and inexperienced people hike into volcano eruption areas on a daily basis. Icelandic ICE-SAR teams respond to what can be multiple callouts a day, from sprained ankles to heart attacks and everything in between, the teams must face hazardous conditions to rescue these people. To this day there are ongoing, regular callouts, accidents, and missing people in the eruption area as the volcano keeps going and shows no sign of stopping. These heroes need equipment that compromises on neither comfort nor safety, which is why they don themselves in GORE-TEX product technologies, keeping those who keep us safe, safe.

During the first days of an eruption, there is usually a lot of uncertainty. With new craters opening up regularly and poisonous gas coming up and settling in the valleys and around the volcano, ICE-SAR's role is, amongst other things, to measure and monitor gas pollution and inform & educate the thousands of people hiking into the area every day.

Coveralls: 1815-1885

The industrial revolution, it seems, produced the first version of the coverall: a loose-fitting suit that is still worn today over workers' entire bodies, except the face and hands. Men tasked with cleaning and checking coal-powered locomotive boilers had to climb through a tiny opening into the firebox of the steam train - and hence the name boiler suit. Evidently, negotiating a tight space in such conditions would have soon necessitated a practical one-piece, preventing soot from entering regular clothing and taking precautions against needless hazards - but the heavy canvas suits were soon protecting all kinds of manual labourers, complete with elasticated waistbands and large exterior pockets for tools. The late nineteenth century therefore saw this type of garment spread to global usage and its design hasn't actually changed too much since.

Overalls: 1775-1940

Their counterpart, however - overalls - provide less protection by nature and their history has not encompassed quite so many industries. Manual labourers made use of practical features such as the bib, which allowed for tools to be carried without the need for a belt. The early twentieth century then saw overalls become even more durable, with buckles instead of buttons to attach straps and waterproof styles in different colours soon becoming available.

A Uniform: 1860-1945

Both coveralls and overalls have been widely adopted and adapted in many different spheres over the years - as official uniforms and simply as a practical measure. Winston Churchill's famed WWII siren suit demonstrated a style invented for modesty and practicality in times of crisis and when women of the era stepped forward to replace men in the workplace, the garment found a whole new legion of wearers. But two occupations that have definitely adopted them in combined purpose are the military and the police. Having long made use of the garment, many different police units around the world still do so today and they are especially popular with SWAT units.

In Flight: 1917-1960

The use of the one-piece in the military though, centres largely on the flight suit, invented for British pilots during the First World War. Multi-layered to provide essential warmth, the "Sidcot" suit soon replaced leather outfits for high-altitude flying in unheated cockpits. The suits had multiple sealed pockets and were the precursor to more modern flight suits that were widely used by the RAF until the 1950s. Electrically heated suits and cotton suits treated for flame-resistance were also introduced and the G-suit was developed in the decades following WWI to stop fighter jet pilots from passing out due to the speed of their manoeuvres.

Fire Protection: 1930-2020

Full pressure suits were invented in the 1930s for flying, but they can now take us into space and fully flame-retardant materials are now also used all-round (most notably a lightweight spun aramid developed in the 1960s). Fire-resistance is a key feature of the workwear coverall today for firefighters, laboratory workers and those in the oil and gas industries as well as in many other contexts. Coveralls today must offer protection from the high risk factor of extreme heat and fire, however and wherever this is encountered. Contemporary PPE fabrics, offer high breathability, long-lasting durability and thermal protection.

Electrical Protection: 1989 – 2020

As far back as 1879, the use of electricity became widespread to illuminate streetlights but research shows scant provision for the protection for those working in this field and numerous injuries and death in service. Surprisingly it wasn’t until 1989 that OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration bought in strict regulations to reduce risk and help protect workers.

By late 1995, industry bodies decreed the requirement for protecting workers from electrical arc flash and burning from electrical explosions. About this time, to protect electrical engineers from arc flash hazards many organisations and governing bodies required a worker wearing clothing made from certain fabrics that couldn’t be ignited, burn readily, continue to burn or melt when exposed to flames or electric arcs.

Thankfully today, protection from arc flash and all electrical hazards is widely recognised as crucially important. To protect workers from accidents due to close exposure to electrical equipment, textiles were developed with three layered protection. Although these were highly effective for protection, they clashed with the need for comfort: were heavy, bulky and often hot and sweaty to wear. One recent fabric technology innovation now satisfies the seemingly contradictory needs of protection vs comfort. Arc rated GORE® PYRAD® protective garments are 50% lighter and crucially consist of only one layer, so are much more lightweight, offer breathability and are comfortable to wear.

Fully Suited, 2020

New materials for these suits are constantly being engineered today, whether lighter, moisture-wicking or more breathable. On the racetrack, both mechanics and drivers have worn flame-retardant coveralls for decades and recent styles see the latest technology deployed to keep them cool, comfortable and safeguarded in case of a crash. By contrast, workers needing personal protective equipment for exposure to hazardous materials today often wear impermeable hazmat suits that contain breathing apparatus - firefighters, paramedics, researchers and other emergency workers all require such suits in instances to protect against various chemical and biological dangers. The advanced uses of this kind of attire in the present day continue to evolve and as mentioned previously, wearers now expect not only protection, but comfort, lightness and intelligent wearable designs.

Future Workwear

So, with a progression as varied as this, there is no doubt that coveralls and overalls will undergo further modification in years to come, to cater for the needs of and to benefit by future scientific and technological developments. The workwear of the future will doubtless take into account changes in the needs of industry, the demands of legislation and the comfort and protection of wearers.

What is Comfort? 

When the human body feels uncomfortable we are very aware of this, however, if we are feeling comfortable then most of the time we don't really notice.   The word ‘comfort’ has a number of meanings, around a lack of discomfort or pain, or more positively in terms of a feeling of ease or contentment. While it’s possible to describe and explain the science of comfort, it is nevertheless a subjective experience. After all, some of us like the feeling of being out in all weathers or taking a cold shower, while others prefer being cocooned in warmth. For the human body to function properly, the temperature of our vital organs, i.e. the brain, heart, lungs and liver, has to remain at approximately 37°C at all times. Comfort has both a physical and a psychological or emotional element and they all interact. In other words, comfort combines human physiology and perception with physics and environment. Comfort is real but can best be understood as both objective science and subjective experience.

The Need for Protection and Comfort 

However it is defined, comfort is absolutely necessary for safety at work, especially when that work involves extreme conditions and/or specific risks such as working outdoors in foul weather or other factors such as fire or electrical hazards. Laws relating to safety at work cover elements such as appropriate equipment and PPE. For arc protection, for example, choosing Class 1 or Class 2 protection will be dependent on the type and level of electrical fault arc risk. Employers must consider whether an electric fault arc is a potential hazard and also whether there is an enhanced risk in the work environment.

This first step in obtaining the correct PPE will ensure protection, but historically, it has come at a price: comfort. In the past, to make PPE safe enough, garments have often been heavy, bulky, restricting movement, hot and frequently uncomfortable. However, recent changes in research have focused on the experience of wearers of PPE. Comfort scientists and designers have been hard at work looking at ways to balance safety with wearer satisfaction.

Importance of Breathability

For issues such as heat and cold, comfort science has much to tell us.  Our bodies naturally adapt by sweating or shivering when we become too hot or too cold. Our bodies can rise above a normal temperature due to hard physical activity or external factors like the weather. In these circumstances our circulation is increased and blood is pumped to the surface of the body. This triggers perspiration which acts to cool the body. This works well as long as the sweat generated has somewhere to go. If it can’t evaporate due to the nature of the clothing, workers stay hot and can feel uncomfortable. This not only results in loss of concentration but can lead to confusion, dizziness, even unconsciousness.

At the other extreme, being too cold leads to shivering, as our body’s way to warm us up. Again, cognitive and physical affects can be observed if we become too cold: loss of attention and poor muscle performance to name two. Where cold is concerned, the main requirements for PPE clothing are adequate insulation, windproofness and waterproofness. So, choosing clothing which incorporates wicking to take sweat away from the body and also protect from the effects of cold is essential consideration for comfort in relation to temperature.

Flexibility and Freedom of Movement

A garment that is flexible and fits well is more comfortable and should leave the worker unaware that they are being protected. In stressful and dangerous work situations, end users don’t want to be thinking about their PPE being too tight or too loose, nor should there be any opportunity for clothing to rub, chafe or for clothing parts to get caught in items such as loose cables within the work setting. Alarmingly, it is known that badly fitting or restrictive PPE tends to lead to workers wearing it incorrectly or discarding it altogether, making the situation more dangerous. Technical developments in PPE for electrical arc incidents must of course initially focus on safety, by considering the protective qualities of the fabric, such as multi-layering. Recent innovations have improved comfort through a more comprehensive range of sizes and greater suppleness and movement in the fabrics used. This means better ergonomics that allow for smoother, easier freedom of movement. A more mobile worker is better protected and a safe worker is more productive.

How weight reduction impacts on comfort

Along side fit and mobility, weight is a very significant aspect of comfortable PPE. Major progress have been made recently in reducing the weight of garments designed for protection. Textiles which are functional for Class2 arc fault protection can be extremely heavy weighing up to 650 g/m2, resulting in a final weight of a jacket of even more than 2 kilograms. Here again, feedback from wearers who have in the past found this kind of weight impedes comfort and therefore efficiency, has led to research into how lighter fabrics can deliver high-quality protection.  PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS technology is now able to make garments that are 50% lighter than previously available. As an added benefit, these garments are easier to look after, being machine washable and durable.

Getting comfort right

Workers in hazardous situations should not be impeded by the clothes they are wearing. Wise employers will buy the best PPE and ensure they are worn properly by consulting with and listening to wearers at all stages of the process. Safety should never be compromised, but the fine balancing act of protection versus comfort no longer needs to be in tension. As well as complying with stringent safety standards, employers can now offer workers lighter, less restrictive and breathable clothing. The implications and benefits are manifold. A comfortable worker is one who makes better decisions, works longer and more productively. They are less likely to lose concentration or to make mistakes that could lead to danger or to jobs being interrupted

Summarizing the voice of the consumer, resarch conducted by Ipsos Research in 2020:

• GORE-TEX brand is the brand for synthetic and high performance fabrics: the GORE-TEX brand is well-known amongst safety footwear users. 
• GORE-TEX brand stands for increased breathability in addition to waterproofness: the GORE-TEX brand is directly linked and trusted to increase the breathability of safety shoes
• GORE-TEX brand is a sign of high-quality shoes:  for many end-users, a shoe with GORE-TEX product technology is perceived as “the better safety shoe”, and even increases trust that the shoe will actually fulfill all safety demands.

Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX fabric 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to military operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages. https://www.goretexprofessional.com/uk

Working with electricity in any environment can be highly dangerous. SPIE technicians work at great heights on pylons supporting high-voltage overhead lines, maintain the electrical substations of regional network operators and install lighting or information systems on high ceilings. Operating giant data centres with their huge electricity consumption is no less dangerous. The work of these technicians can have potentially fatal consequences in environments in which they are at risk of exposure to arc flashes. Such incidents arise from electrical arching between two parts of an electrical system. They produce clouds of plasma reaching temperatures of 5,000°C, burning clothing and causing severe burns within milliseconds.

This is why workplace safety is such a major concern. “The company has two guiding principles,” explains Dr Oliver Polanz, head of HSEQ (health, safety, environment, quality) at SPIE Germany and Central Europe. “Firstly, optimising workplace health and safety through leadership, good discipline and a culture of change. Secondly, no compromising when it comes to workplace health and safety.” At SPIE, this also applies to their employees’ workwear: “In situations in which personal protective equipment needs to be worn, it should have an ergonomic fit and be as lightweight as possible,” says Oliver Polanz. “Wearer acceptance is incredibly important when it comes to protective clothing. People will only wear it, if they feel comfortable in it.” The fact that SPIE employees are given a say in health and safety issues is evident in the day-to-day workings of the company. The employees had become increasingly dissatisfied with their existing multinorm workwear. It had a poor ergonomic design and did not offer adequate protection in wet weather. Furthermore, it caused excessive sweating during strenuous work because of poor breathability. One of the outcomes was frequent workplace absences due to colds.

Lightweight: innovative arc rated waterproof garments

The company set about looking for a replacement for their existing foul weather workwear. They conducted a detailed analysis, held consultations with Iturri, their supplier, did their own market research and discussed the issue with leaders and works council representatives. Ultimately, a decision was made in favour of waterproof workwear equipped with the innovative GORE-TEX PYRAD® product technology. This technology is durably waterproof and windproof and thus ideally suited to outdoor work in wind and rain. In addition to the waterproof GORE-TEX membrane, it features two textile layers: the outer fabric with the PYRAD^® by GORE-TEX LABS product technology and an inner lining. This innovative functional fabric means that GORE-TEX PYRAD® protective garments provide the highest level of class 2 electric arc protection. A porous insulating barrier forms on the lightweight outer fabric made of polyester or polyamide within milliseconds of sudden exposure to heat, or the moment at which an electric arc incident occurs. This barrier blocks the convective heat flow during arc exposure and keeps the wearer safe. All this happens “in real-time”. But what makes this solution more comfortable for the wearer? When wet or dry, this innovative material is up to 45% lighter than previously available flame retardant waterproof fabrics. This results in a lightweight garment that is still highly breathable, waterproof and windproof. This is essential because SPIE technicians work outdoors, whatever the weather. They have even been known to work on pylons in wind conditions reaching gale force six.

This fabric technology also allows for the manufacture of protective garments that feature extra benefits to comply with additional standards, such as those covering high visibility, chemical resistance and antistatic protection. There are also all sorts of ways in which the protective clothing can be tailored to suit individual needs. Consequently, SPIE conducted several wear trials before going ahead with procurement. This saw GORE-TEX PYRAD® foul weather garments being tested in strategic areas of the business and at various times of the year. Garment manufacturer Iturri supplied SPIE with various prototypes, each time taking into consideration the suggestions of the trial participants. This approach has certainly led to more wearer acceptance. The new protective garments were either leased or purchased, depending on the needs of the different areas of the company.

For everyday wear: lightweight protective workwear with class 2 electric arc protection

Ordinary foul weather garments do not always provide the level of protection SPIE employees need to go about their work. “There are many sectors in which customers specify that our technicians must wear clothing that complies with the requirements of class 2 electric arc protection,” explains Oliver Polanz. “These workers can find themselves pushed to their limits, especially on hot summer days or in exceptionally hot buildings.” In such situations too much heat can build up inside the garment. In other words, not all foul weather garments produced for protection against electric arc hazards are entirely suitable for everyday wear.

Having seen how satisfied their employees were with the GORE-TEX PYRAD® fabric technology, SPIE decided to try out the same technology in a set of lightweight protective garments intended for everyday wear: when waterproof protection is not required. The first step was to run a series of field tests with arc rated PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS garments – a version of the smart technology developed for lightweight protective clothing for daily use. This material is windproof and extremely breathable. It can be worn in comfort all day long, even in dry environments and on warmer days. This is because body warmth does not accumulate inside the garment, not even during physically strenuous activities.

The ingenious thing about this technology is that, for the first time, a special membrane, the lightweight PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS - consists of three components in a one ply solution: the outer shell, a wafer-thin non-flammable ePTFE membrane with an incorporated PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS technology and a flame-retardant backer. As a consequence, the functional fabric feels thinner and is far more flexible than other options available in this sector. It weighs less than 330 g/m2 and is up to 50 percent lighter than previously available flame retardant textiles, offering significantly enhanced freedom of movement without compromising on protection.

Early field tests revealed that the SPIE workers were just as satisfied with this non waterproof version of the PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS product technology: “We had ten sets of clothing on the go. The feedback we received from our workers was overwhelmingly positive,” Oliver Polanz explains. The approach adopted previously with garment manufacturer Iturri had been so successful that the same procedure was used again. It took several months and multiple field tests before the new safety workwear, designed around the specific requirements of the company, was ready for production. These garments were also tested in a wide variety of typical working environments and weather conditions. Iturri manufactured a series of prototypes, each time in the required quantities and reflecting the suggestions of the test participants. Workers can now choose between two alternatives depending on the working environment: the lightweight arc rated PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS protective garments for day in day out use and, whenever necessary, the wet weather version, the arc rated GORE-TEX PYRAD® foul weather garments.

To operate effectively, officers need to have full confidence and trust that their gear will protect them from the most extreme risks if a situation escalates quickly.  The GORE-TEX PYRAD® Riot Suit provides reliable protection from sudden incidental heat, flash fire, chemical penetration and inclement weather.

The GORE-TEX PYRAD® Riot Suit is inherently flame retardant and has been proven in independent test to protect the wearer from incidental heat and flash fire associated with petrol bombs and exploding cars. The suit also protects from common chemicals, including gasoline and most diluted acids and alkalis.

Working long shifts outside in in heavy, cumbersome gear can be very uncomfortable for officers. The GORE-TEX PYRAD® Riot Suit is lightweight and wears and feels like regular rainwear, delivering high levels of comfort for long periods of wear outside. It is less stiff and more flexible than traditional fire-resistant fabrics and absorbs less water so that it dries quicker. 

It is vital that officers have the best protection to prevent their concentration levels being inhibited by becoming too hot, wet or cold, hampering their decision making in rapidly changing situations. The GORE-TEX PYRAD® Riot Suit is waterproof, windproof and breathable, keeping the wearer dry from the outside elements while allowing sweat to pass out through the garment in warm conditions. This helps officers to keep their focus on the task at hand.

Katja Christof, Product Specialist at GORE-TEX Professional said: “The new GORE-TEX PYRAD® Riot Suit really is a game changer in personal protection for public order policing. It delivers the critical protection required from the most extreme risks such as incidental flash fire, while at the same time achieving high levels of comfort and freedom of movement. The lightweight fabric eliminates the traditional compromise between comfort and protection in a suit that is designed to achieve consistently high levels of performance throughout its operational lifetime.”

The new suit will withstand the toughest conditions with high resistance to abrasion and almost no pilling, and is available in a wide range of colors.

Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX fabric 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to military operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages. https://www.goretexprofessional.com/uk 

Here, Miguel Calixto, Product Specialist for PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS Arc Rated Garments at GORE-TEX Professional, demystifies the requirements on PPE provision with some key points and facts about electrical arc protection.

1.    Thermal Arc Protection IEC 61482-2, this is the basic legal requirement for PPE in this sector and thus of crucial importance. It is the key standard that covers protective clothing against the thermal arc hazards of an electric arc. The IEC 61482-2 standard includes various aspects of garment design and employers must only procure PPE which carries this level of arc flash protection. In order for a garment to reach or exceed the requirements of this IEC standard it must pass one or ideally both test methods used for testing the clothing and material.  These can be separated into EN 61482-1-1 known as the Open Arc Test Method and EN61482-1-2 known as the Box Test Method.

2.    The Open Arc Test is a method for determining the Arc Thermal Protection Value (ATPV) of a garment, based on the Stoll Curve, which is itself a graph that shows the point at which greater protection should be provided in order to avoid injuries due to heat energy transfer levels. The ATPV shows how much thermal energy any arc flash PPE can withstand to avoid the wearer getting second-degree burns. Thus, the Open Arc Test produces an arc rating.

3.    ATPV/EBT Rating this is, simply put, a measurement of a fabric’s ability to protect an individual from a burn due to exposure to incident energy resulting from an arc flash. This thermal resistance rating is measured in calories per square centimetre. 
Arc Ratings are calculated using at least 20 data points and a logistic regression to determine the incident energy level of a 50% probability that there is enough heat transfer to cross the Stoll Curve (ATPV), or for the material to break open and create exposure, called EBT or the Energy Breakopen Threshold. The higher the numerical rating/value, the higher the level of protection.

4.    ELIM Value – this stands for Incident Energy Limit Value and has been added to the 2019 revision of the IEC 61482-1-1 Open Arc Test standard. The ELIM value is defined as the numerical value of incident energy attributed to a product below which all product responses are below the Stoll curve and without break open. The ELIM is calculated as the average the three highest incident energy data points just below the so-called mix zone. The “mix zone” is the range in testing between the lowest incident energy level that crossed the Stoll Curve, and the highest incident energy level that did not cross the Stoll Curve.

5.    Box Test Method is another method of testing using electrodes arranged in a particular order in a box to produce the electrical arc. This method of testing does not produce an arc rating per se. Rather, it determines the Class Rating of specific garments. Protective wear passing this test will be rated Class 1 or Class 2.  The Box Test standard defines two testing conditions, Class 1 and Class 2, according to different arc incident energy levels.

6.    Box Test Class 1 tests at an arc current of 4kA and a duration of 500ms. This classification is given when clothing material and material pass the test of lower level of simulated arc exposure which is carried out in laboratory conditions.  PPE at this level is the basic requirement and affords a lower level of protection to end users.

7.    Box Test Class 2, a higher test than Class 1, tests at an arc current of 7kA and a duration of 500ms, so PPE at this level is more secure. Class 2 is attributed to clothing material and clothing when both pass the performance criteria in laboratory conditions at the higher level of arc exposure.  Today, innovations are being made in regard to providing Class 2 PPE which is lightweight, breathable and provide comfort to the wearers, such as new Arc Rated PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS Protective clothing for everyday wear.

Understanding the levels of protection needed to ensure the adherence of the best and highest safety levels required for workers at risk of the potential dangers of arc related incidents need not be confusing.  Keeping up to date on the key terms, safety tests and new protection standards, mentioned here, is a firm step in the right direction.  It is always advisable to engage with established and trusted PPE manufacturers who will guide through wearer trials and the procurement process. 

The Nordic Combat Uniform is the first NORDEFCO procurement of its kind as it is the first time Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway join forces in a single procurement effort.

• Four nations signing this contract is a beneficiary and tremendous achievement for joint procurement of uniform systems and provides good solutions for the soldiers, says brigadier Øyvind Kvalvik head of Land Systems division in the Norwegian Defense Materiel Agency (NDMA).
• Although this is a joint procurement, each nation has signed individual contracts with the same contract terms, and the cooperation will continue during the contract period, says Finnish Major-general Kari Renko.

The Nordic nations requires a modern, functional and flexible combat uniform system in order to meet their military requirements in demanding Nordic climatic conditions. The system also includes configurations for jungle and arid desert conditions typical for international operations.

“The uniform system is a significant improvement for the soldiers in all four nations, and is designed to have an equal functionality and fit for both genders”, explains head of Logistics FMV, Jennifer Skjäl-Lundgren 

One system, one design
The NCU clothing system includes uniform configurations from underwear to outer layers.  

“The configurations are the same in all countries, but each nation will use its own national camouflage pattern on outer layers”, says Danish Major-General Christian Brejner Ishøj.

Also exempted are smaller items such as headgear, gloves, footwear or personal protective equipment. These are not part of the framework agreement, and will be procured by each nation independently.

Consortium

The NCU system has been developed as joint effort of a core group of partners known for their long-time commitment to innovation. Oskar Pedersen AS is the contractor and Layers AS the project manager. The manufacturing and technological partners of the system are: Siamidis SA – Lead technical solution, manufacturer of the combat, cold & wet weather layers, W.L Gore & Associates GmbH - Technology provider for the system, Aclima AS & Woolpower AB – Wool underwear.

“Working together with some of the best companies within the industry and engaging in various technological fields from wool underwear to lightweight rainwear was really challenging and equally rewarding for us. We learned a lot and are very much looking forward to the cooperation ahead”, says Carl Henrik Myhre, managing director in Layers. “We challenged ourselves to offer a European based technology-oriented system. This gave us a highly reliable value chain with focus on ethics, human rights, and environmental topics. The main manufacturer has their power source from their own renewable solar energy with a CO2 surplus equal to 3.6 million m2 of forest”, says Carl Henrik Myhre.

Facts: 
The Nordic Defense Cooperation (NORDEFCO) consists of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. The overall purpose of NORDEFCO is to strengthen the participants’ national defense, explore common synergies and facilitate efficient common solutions.

For more information: Nordefco

The Combat Uniform layering system consists of the following GORE-TEX Professional Products:

• The standard battle dress uniform will consist of PYRAD® by GORE-TEX LABS product technology – for comfort, durability, colour fastness and FR protection.
• The thermal suits will have the WINDSTOPPER® by GORE-TEX LABS product technology in the outer material, for windproofness, comfort and durability.
• The rain suit will have the GORE-TEX product technology and everything that that stands for, including durable waterproofness, windproofness and breathability.

Durable NCU layering system

To this end, Siamidis together with technology partner Gore made a garment layering system, based on GORE-TEX Professional fabrics technologies. In order to make sure that all NCU requirements were met, most of the Gore lab capabilities including durability and wet labs, rain tower, environmental and comfort chamber were utilized during the tender process to verify the performance and fitness-for-use of the complete uniform system, including the undergarment system provided by Aclima AS and Woolpower AB.

“We are happy and proud of being part of the team that has been awarded the NCU contract. We have successfully worked in a close partnership with Siamidis to develop the outer garments of the system. The whole project has been a fantastic journey and learning process for all of us. The user requirements of the NCU system have clearly been to protect the soldiers and at the same time focus on their performance”, states Åke Sahlgaard, Key Account Manager, Gore.

Michalis Siamidis, CEO, Siamidis SA, says: “We are proud and honored for the NCU award decision. The project is a great case of how our team and Gore cooperated closely to develop a high-performing system that is fit-for-use in various scenarios and climate zones. Our focus has always been on innovation, sustainability, durable protection, and comfort. The system has undergone extended laboratory and troop-trial testing. We feel high responsibility and excitement to start working for this contract”

Carl Henrik Myhre, Project manager at Layers AS says: “This project allowed us to really take a close and deep look into how and what technologies work together in various operations and scenarios. We could completely focus with the soldiers’ best interests in mind while designing this system.”

OEKO-TEX and solar energy

One important aspect within the NCU tender process was the focus on sustainability. Both, Siamidis SA and GORE-TEX Professional have put emphasis on durable product performance and at the same time a lower environmental impact. The final garments are certified STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®. And, as manufacturer, Siamidis has an “electrical consumption accounting” programme in place through which the energy needed to produce the NCU layers is compared with the energy produced by the company-owned solar energy installations (which produces more than 3.000.000 kWh per year).

“As a result of the sustainability measures, we are proud to say that the production of the PYRAD® by GORE-TEX Labs, WINDSTOPPER® by GORE-TEX Labs, and GORE-TEX® Products layers of the system does not have negative CO₂ footprint due to energy use”, says Michalis Siamidis. “In addition, the NCU system will be made from a value chain that is highly focused on quality, ethics, and environmental protection.”

“The ‘Nordic Combat Uniform System’ (NCU) project is a key highlight for Gore, and we are delighted to be part of the winning group. Through the various operational scenario requests and we were able to demonstrate our technical GORE-TEX products capabilities of protection and comfort together with the excellent manufacturing capabilities of our partner Siamidis. We are extremely pleased to be a partner of Oskar Pedersen in the NCU project”, says Åke Sahlgaard

The 2021 Responsibility Update highlights the development of expanded polyethylene (ePE) as one key example of how Gore’s Fabrics Division is using its vast expertise to drive environmentally improved material innovations. Gore’s new complementary material platform will serve as the basis for membrane technologies in its consumer business.

Another top story featured within the 2021 Responsibility Update: GORE-TEX Professional launched EXTRAGUARD, an innovative upper technology with a lower environmental footprint for a new class of safety footwear.

Ross MacLaine, Sustainability Leader of the Gore Fabrics Division, said: “I am pleased to see that in 2021, despite many challenges, we made substantial progress in many areas. Our sustainability framework is now fully integrated into both our consumer and professional GORE-TEX businesses, providing strategic guidance on key initiatives. In our Responsibility Update this year, we have taken the opportunity to share thoughts from a wide number of our experts to highlight the depth of knowledge we bring to this area. We will keep working hard on all the commitments – made within our sustainability strategy – to protect people and planet while prolonging the lifetime of our products and the well-being of their users.”

Additional highlights from Gore’s sustainability journey last year include:

• Gore Fabrics Division conducted another full assessment of its total carbon footprint and joined forces with its supply chain partners to reduce carbon emission of the raw materials.
• Gore Fabrics Division obtained Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification for its fabric plants in Putzbrunn (Germany) and Shenzhen (China).
• Gore Fabrics Division further increased transparency in its performance and efforts to reduce the environmental impacts of its fabric plants via the Higg Facility Environmental Module (FEM). While the manufacturing sites in Shenzhen and Elk Mills (USA) maintained their performance levels, the Putzbrunn plant significantly exceed its total environmental score.
• Gore Fabrics Division also continued to verify social compliance at its manufacturing sites via the Higg Facility Social & Labor Module (FSLM).

“These initiatives and achievements demonstrate that in 2021 the Gore Fabrics Division continued to make a difference to our planet and the people living on it. Using decades of scientific knowledge, intensive research & development, as well as a strict testing regime, we remain committed to drive environmentally improved material innovations that deliver an optimized combination of high performance with a lower environmental footprint”, concludes Ross MacLaine

Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX Fabric more than 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to defence operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages. For more information, visit www.gore-tex.com and www.goretexprofessional.com.

Sally Ryder Taylor 
GORE-TEX Professional Press Office UK 
Mob: 07793815026 
Email: sally@rusecomm.co.uk 
 

The Gore Fabrics Division (Gore) announced today the achievement of a major milestone in its continuous efforts to reduce the environmental footprint whilst providing high performance products. Gore reached full Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification of its manufacturing sites in Shenzhen (China) and Putzbrunn (Germany). GRS is an international, voluntary, full product standard that sets requirements for third-party certification of recycled content, social and environmental practices, chemical restrictions, and chain of custody (CoC). CoC requires each stage of production to be certified, beginning at the recycling stage, and ending at the last seller in the final business-to-business transaction. Material collection and material concentration sites are subject to self-declaration, document collection, and on-site visits.

Originally the GRS was developed by Control Union Certifications in 2008 and ownership was passed to Textile Exchange in 2011. The GRS is intended for use with any product that contains at least 20% GRS certified recycled material ; final products carrying the GRS logo must contain at least 50% GRS certified recycled material..The main goal of the GRS is to increase use of recycled materials in products and reduce or eliminate the harm to people and the environment caused by its production.

“Transparency guides the way the Gore Fabric Division is operating and building trust with buyers, customer, end-users, and partners. Therefore, we decided to become certified according to the Global Recycled Standard to ensure traceability of recycled content used in our products”, says Thomas Kiebler, Global Application Engineer Leader, W. L. Gore & Associates. “This success was only possible because of huge efforts undertaken by our manufacturing sites and beyond. We conducted pre-audits and implemented the environmental, social and chemical requirements of the standard which have not been covered yet by our existing certifications e.g., bluesign®, ISO 14001.”

Gore adapted its production and warehouse set-up which allows to separate GRS from non-GRS certified goods as required by the standard. Besides this – as Gore is also using external warehouses for shipping laminates to its licenced partners and buyers – the company worked with its warehouse partners to integrate them into the GRS system.

“After having successfully obtained the GRS certification, we are now embedding the processes and requirements into our existing management system to ensure we maintain the certification and will continuously improve our performance”, says Kiebler.

Mid of 2022, Gore plans to introduce GRS certified laminates to its customers on the consumer business side but also in the GORE-TEX Professional workwear business. This will require adaptations of the IT systems to allow Gore issuing product-related certifications, so called “transaction certificates”, to customers and buyers.

“We will introduce a more holistic portfolio management for our GRS certified laminates so that we can continuously expand our offering to customers and buyers. We will initially start with a small number of laminates of our Gore Fabrics portfolio, but we will work with our suppliers and manufacturing sites to certify all laminates with recycled textiles according to GRS in the future”, states Kiebler.

GORE-TEX Professional Press Office UK

Sally@rusecomm.co.uk

Tel. 07793815026

Gore Associates Paul Jennewein  and Thomas Meyer test immersion protection garments using GORE-TEX PYRAD® product technology from Viking-Life Saving Equipment in Lake Chiemsee, Germany.

Arc rated GORE-TEX PYRAD® fabric is a multi-functional and multi-norm solution for electrical workers who are exposed to the risks of an electric arc, electrostatic discharge and who often have to operate in foul weather conditions. Today, GORE-TEX Professional announced the introduction of a concept for arc-rated 3-layer overtrousers to its PYRAD® portfolio of products. Trousers utilising arc rated GORE-TEX PYRAD® fabric technology allow end users to stay Class 2 arc protected, dry, comfortable and focused on their work not their PPE. When compared to other Class 2 arc protection rainwear trousers currently available they are significantly lighter, less bulky and, in fact they are exceptionally comfortable to wear, remain dry on the inside and provide quick re-drying properties.

The concept of arc-rated overtrousers is constructed from GORE-TEX PYRAD® which is a 1-ply fabric with 3 layers: a face fabric, GORE-TEX membrane plus PYRAD® fabric technology and a flame-retardant backer. To support the introduction of this new technology to our partners, the GORE-TEX Professional design team has developed a new concept for overtrousers that is durable to stand up to tough working environments and designed so that they are easy to put on over existing non-weather protective clothing. The beneficial and functional design elements include: pre-shaped legs, safety zips which run from the hem to the knee so there is no need to remove safety boots to get them on or off and the back is shaped higher than the front to ensure all day wearer comfort in all working positions. As part of their concept design program, GORE-TEX Professional provides this overtrouser design as a service to customers.

Importance of protecting your legs

Legs account for approximately 36% of the body’s total surface area, once they become wet or cold this can impact on the overall warmth and well-being of the rest of the body. It is well documented and scientifically proven that chilled legs put a strain of the immune system. In addition, cold leg muscles have a higher risk of sustaining injury because muscle strength decreases as temperatures fall. GORE-TEX PYRAD® 3-layer overtrousers tackle such issues head on because they provide durable waterproof and windproof protection against rain and wind, which is key to preventing the wearer from getting wet and cold.

Arc rated GORE-TEX PYRAD® 3-Layer overtrousers are a protective and intelligent choice for all electrical workers who demand and deserve the following wide range of protective features: Class 2 arc rated protection, weather protection, flame protection, protection against the hazards of an electric arc, protection against electrostatic discharges and highly visible functionality.

*EN Norms and Standards of Arc rated GORE-TEX PYRAD® Trousers

Protective clothing against the thermal hazards of an electric arc, IEC 61482-1-2:2014 class 2 (7 kA), IEC 61482-1-1:2019 arc rating ELIM 42 cal/cm² 

Clothing to protect against heat and flame, EN ISO 11612 A1, A2, B2, C1, D2, E1, F1

Protective clothing for use in welding and allied processes, EN ISO 11611 class 2 A1+A2

High Visibility Clothing, EN ISO 20471 HI-VIS yellow, HI-VIS orange

Protection against rain, EN 343 class 4/3

Electrostatic properties, EN 1149-3/-5

Protective clothing against liquid chemicals, EN 13034 Type 6

Rain Tower Test, EN 14360

Beginning of 2021, GORE-TEX Professional identified megatrends that are likely to have a significant impact on the workwear and protective clothing industry by 2025 (https://news.goretexprofessional.com/en/gore-identifies-workwear-megatrends/ ). Building on its existing research in design trends, GORE-TEX Professional is now going one step further and aims to inspire its manufacturers of protective clothing with new designs. This was preceded by intensive research into current and future market needs using focus groups. These interview results were then grouped into three distinct design concepts for workwear and PPE: “Heritage Handyman”, “High Performer” and “Street Operator”.

The “Heritage Handyman” concept shows protective clothing with traditional looks and the latest functionality - robust and comfortable at the same time.

“High Performer” offers an innovative solution for work clothing: sophisticated details and durable materials - a combination of active performance wear that meets protective clothing.

“Street Operator” is exposed to constant safety and weather-related challenges in the outdoors and relies on protective clothing that provides high visibility coupled with robust and functional design elements.

Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX Fabric more than 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to defense operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages. gore-tex.com and goretexprofessional.com

Accidents are more likely to happen when the supplied PPE is discarded or used only intermittently. For instance, a jacket that retains sweat or a pair of boots that leak will soon be abandoned. Studies show that workers are more productive if they feel well protected and can move freely while wearing appropriate work wear. So, making sure that the wearer is motivated to use PPE is just as important as sourcing the very best PPE in the first place.

The following seven key aspects should be considered when selecting PPE:

1. Asking the wearer

A good place to start is with those who need to wear PPE. Sensible employers know the regulations but also make sure their workers are consulted on what is important to them in their PPE. User trials may focus on how effective the design is in keeping workers safe in high-risk situations, but the wearer will want a product that keeps their body comfortable. Too hot, cold, leaky or heavy and it doesn’t matter how good the product is in protecting against danger, the wearer is less likely to use it. Increasingly, workers demand that their PPE is comfortable as well as safe.

2. Latest technology and functional design

In a competitive market, designers and manufacturers now need to be spot-on in terms of developing the latest fabrics for protection in combination with wearer comfort. Increasingly there is wider availability of lightweight multi norm garments which protect against more than just the elements but also against additional risks, such as electric arc flashes. An effective example of this, Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® garments, offer Class 2 electric arc protection whilst being windproof, lightweight and comfortable for the wearer all day. A growing trend is the demand for stylish garments so designers must be innovative in balancing safety with functional style.

3. Providing an incentive to change

Even where currently used PPE is less than effective, some workers may be reluctant to try a new product. Wider acceptance can be aided via end-user trials or by hosting an Educational Roadshow, where the technology will be explained in detail and benefits of the new styles can be illustrated in a direct and practical way. In current conditions, this can be done safely online.

4. Availability

Once employers and end-users have selected their PPE, it is a smart move to work in partnership with suppliers to develop a speedy ordering and delivery system. A dedicated Cloud PPE Online Ordering System is used by some large-scale employers to ensure that products are delivered the next working day to the individual. 

5. Wash & Care for PPE

An important aspect is to care for the PPE. As garments get dirty and end-users sweat during work, the PPE must be washed in order to restore its performance. Employers should check if products are proven to withstand minimum 50 wash & care cycles and perform durably. Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® laminates are proven to pass 50 wash/dry cycles in both home laundry and industrial laundry processes.

6. Sustainability and the environment

Companies throughout the supply chain, from sourcing raw materials to retail selling, are eliminating or reducing the use of potentially harmful materials, to protect humans and the environment. Employers more and more check environmental programs of manufacturers and suppliers when sourcing PPE. They look for ISO standardised method for environmental assessment of products and services including ISO 14001 or Life Cycle Assessment (LCA – ISO 14040) but also adherence to standards such as Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX.

7. Wearer satisfaction levels

In the end, PPE is worn by real people in real working conditions. It is no false economy to ensure that very high satisfaction levels can be evidenced in the chosen safety wear. Comfort, style and thermal regulation in high performance fabrics must work together so that the end-user is happy, safe and protected to work long hours in the supplied PPE.

Gore revolutionized the outerwear industry with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX Fabric more than 40 years ago and remains a leading innovator of performance apparel. Gore fabrics products provide comfort and protection in challenging environments and in everyday life, enabling wearers to safely and confidently achieve and experience more. From hiking in downpours to defense operations and fighting fires, Gore’s deep understanding of consumer and industry needs drives development of products with meaningful performance advantages.  goretexprofessional.com