Globus solutions ensuring workplace safety
for all at Red Handling UK
The nature of our business means every day poses a different task with different hazards. Globus has been incredible in providing the right safety solution for each task for Red Handling for over 8 years, prioritising inclusivity, safety, and comfort.
Tony Yates, Head of Safety, Security, and Compliance at Red Handling UK
Red Handling UK Limited is a ground handling service provider and part of the London Gatwick Airport community. Operating from both North and South terminals, Red Handling prides itself on its history of safety and reliability.
The Situation
Red Handling UK provides a full range of aviation services. Offering passenger services, ramp handling, and aircraft cleaning means effective, safe, and comfortable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required for each varied application.
High-risk hazards in the sector include chemicals from cleaning agents, ever-changing weather conditions, handling of extremely cold materials, grip, and hand fatigue from working long hours. Protective glove options to protect from these hazards were required, with the extra need for size inclusivity based on Red Handling UK's diverse workforce.
Furthermore, another high-risk hazard in the aviation field is Jet Blast. Jet Blasting refers to the phenomenon of rapid air movement produced by the jet engines of aircraft, particularly on or before takeoff. Jet blasts can be a hazard to people or other unsecured objects, and can reach wind speeds comparable to those of a Category 5 hurricane causing flying debris, dust, and other unsecured objects to fly at the workers in surrounding areas. Eye protection is therefore crucial for runway workers to protect against this dangerous risk.
Excessive noise from engines is also a common hazard for Red Handling workers, meaning they often require ear defenders with exceptional compatibility with other essential PPE.
The Solution
For hazards impacting the hands, the Skytec glove portfolio offered a solution for a range of tasks at Red Handling.
The Skytec Beta 1 gloves are one of the lightest gloves in the industry, making them ideal for workers at Red Handling who need excellent protection, without compromising on dexterity. A firm favourite for baggage handlers, the gloves also offer touchscreen capabilities, meaning gloves do not need to be removed when operating screen devices, removing the risk of exposure to hazards. Moreover, aircraft cleaners found the nitrile powder-free gloves provided by Globus to be comfortable and perform better during aircraft cleaning tasks such as cleaning the aircraft cabin, the seats and the galley areas.
For the team that uses high loaders, the piece of equipment used to transport cargo pallets and baggage containers into widebody aircraft holds is of particular interest. The access is via a ladder or lifting basket, which both mandate the use of gloves. The excellent grip of Skytec gloves contributes heavily to safety when using this equipment.
Additionally, eye protection to shield against flying debris, dust, and excessive UV exposure due to outdoor work was essential for Red Handling workers. The Riley eyewear collection boasts safety glasses, goggles, and visors, with polycarbonate high-impact resistance and UV protective lenses. For shielding against Jet Blasting, the Riley Velia safety goggles provide a wide field of vision, a soft PVC/TPE frame and a comfortable nose bridge, and excellent PPE compatibility.
The Globus PPE range is ideal for our diverse workforce, with a wide variety of sizes and protection levels to ensure every worker is safe Tony Yates, Head of Safety, Security, and Compliance at Red Handling UK
The Benefits
As well as offering optimum protection and comfort, the Skytec and Riley range also provide an inclusive solution, further contributing to optimum safety.
Providing gloves that are too big for a worker could lead to them being trapped in moving parts or decrease their grip and comfort, whereas ill-fitting eyewear can hinder protection levels if debris and flying dust can pass through gaps and enter the eyes. The Skytec Beta 1 gloves are available in extra small sizing, to ensure all workers can experience the same high level of protection, regardless of their hand size. Our Riley eyewear, also is available in inclusive sizing, with the Stream Evo Small specifically designed for smaller face shapes, whilst still offering a wide field of vision.
Conclusion
The Globus 360 Safety Programme is a free no-obligation service, to help assess and identify the specific personal protective equipment (PPE) needs for a particular site or workplace. For more information on how the Globus 360 programme can assist you and your business, please contact us today.
Request a free trial, here.