A PPE for mine workers includes a series of garments that protect the person against possible risks inherent to their position. For example, abrasion-resistant gloves for subway mining safeguard hands and provide performance comfort. The importance of impact protection in the mining industry should also not be forgotten. In this respect, the AlphaTec® 1800 BC suit has the best features that can be asked for in a suit of this type.

Suit for subway work in the mining industry: AlphaTec® 1800 BC

People working in this industry can work in different processes. These include, for example, infrastructure construction, which is work that can be carried out underground or in the open air. There are many other areas, such as mining and exploration, crushing or grinding. In any case, the AlphaTec® 1800 BC suit is one of the best suits for these tasks.

It can also be used in transportation and logistics, as well as in maintenance. In general, safety suits for open-pit and subway mining cover a number of basic aspects, such as protection against particles, liquids that have been sprayed, or working with lubricants. At Ansell we design and manufacture PPE for subway environments that are specially designed for these performances.

The AlphaTec® 1800 Hi Viz suit involves an added focus on ergonomic protection for subway miners, which means the garments are comfortable and adaptable.

Characteristics of this protective suit for subway mines

Given the wide variety of performance possibilities in this industry, there are very diverse suits. Each one offers a series of advantages, applicable according to the position and the functions for which it is intended. Specifically, the AlphaTec® 1800 BC is one of the most complete for this field.

This garment is comfortable, adjustable and resistant. In fact, its fit has been optimized to increase comfort. Added to this is a three-piece hood with full head coverage, aided by a two-way front zipper and a resealable wind flap.

Among other properties, it protects against particles, low-risk sprayed liquids and cross-contamination, as its probability of leaving fibers is minimal. On the other hand, it has a microporous polyethylene laminate, which contributes to alleviate thermal stress by being breathable.

It offers medium resistance to chemicals, thus protecting against splashes of non-hazardous liquids and fine particles. In addition, it does not contain silicone, which implies a low risk of contaminant transfer to the metal.

Among its most outstanding features are its bonded seams, which improve its overall robustness and level of protection.

Other recommended options

In addition to the aforementioned model, there are other recommendable options along the same lines. They are as follows:

• AlphaTec® 2300 PLUS is a type 3 suit that is lightweight, strong and durable.
• AlphaTec® 3000 is bright yellow in color and is especially designed for those who work in blast and auger loading processes or in operation and maintenance of the beneficiation plant.
• AlphaTec® 2000 features microporous laminate technology and breathable moisture vapor wicking fabric, mitigating the risk of heat stress.
• Hercules HJ542 / HJ546 is a foundry and furnace suit made of flame retardant material. Protects against heat and metal splashes up to 1600 °C.
• AlphaTec VPS Flash has a multi-layer construction, providing excellent chemical protection.

Safeguards physical integrity in subway mining

When choosing subway mining PPE, there are a number of considerations to take into account. These include comfort, body fit and the quality of the materials used in their manufacture.

These recommendations are applicable to the selection of any garment, although the suit is one of the main elements in the mining sector. However, mining PPE consists of a number of equally important garments. In fact, a suit without quality boots or gloves does not offer the same safety and comfort.

Without a doubt, acquiring the right equipment has implications for both worker health and safety and business productivity. At Ansell we have solutions for each case and offer a wide range of products. Our subway mining gloves and protective suits for mine workers comply with ANSI ISEA regulations and standards. They are manufactured to safeguard physical integrity and provide comfort in the performance of tasks in this industry.