Our value as a partner is often felt most during the regular review consultations we have with customers. During one such session with power generating company SSE, they asked us to develop foul weather garments that performed particularly well during harsh winter conditions on UK coasts.
UK winters can bring extreme weather such as heavy rain, snow, gale force winds, and storm conditions. Although existing garments met safety and health regulations, wearers reported that when they became very wet it would become uncomfortably heavy and have a long drying out time.
When the SSE engineers worked in driving rain and windy conditions, the rain was coming at angles that meant the traditional features on the existing garments were not preventing water getting into the garment. This was causing discomfort and what is often described as ‘wet neck’.
Their engineers were sometimes required to work consecutively for several days to restore power when bad weather had destroyed parts of the network. This meant it was vital that they have foul weather solutions that can dry out quickly after being wet and be ready to wear for their next shift.
Our mission was to develop a foul-weather garment that would be tough enough for the customer’s working conditions whilst also waterproof, windproof, flexible, and lightweight. Working closely with a leading global waterproof garment manufacturer, we developed a new fit-for-purpose solution.
As SSE engineers work with electrical systems with the potential risk of being exposed to an arc flash incident, the new solution was also made to be arc resistant. The garment was certified and field tested with SSE, who were pleased to report that it performed excellently when worn.
To discuss our extensive range of foul weather technical clothing solutions please contact or speak to Bruce using the details below.
Bruce works at the forefront of global requirements and is a leading authority on arc flash PPE. Bruce is also highly knowledgeable about the requirements of the Energy and Utilities industry.
