Skytec Protective Clothing Improves Safety and Wearer Acceptance for Techrete
The expertise provided by Globus has empowered us to make informed choices in selecting the optimal Chemsol chemical clothing and Glovezon protective workwear, culminating in a holistic and effective solution
Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Officer at Techrete UK, Steve Birkett
Founded in 1985, Techrete is the leading company in the design, manufacture, and installation of architectural precast cladding, serving in the UK and Irish construction markets. Offering a complete precast solution from bespoke design through to manufacture, and installation.
The Situation
Techrete employ 350 people in 4 locations in Brigg, Dublin, Leicester and London with manufacturing facilities in Brigg and Dublin. HSE Officer on the sites, Steve Birkett, through feedback from employees, identified a potential risk associated with the existing competitor's chemical clothing solution. Employees were experiencing escalated fabric deterioration over relatively short periods of time. In response, Steve collaborated with Globus to find a new PPE solution. Dedicated to proactively tackling potential concerns and swiftly achieving a resolution, Steve with a Globus Group representative conducted a comprehensive assessment of current PPE.
The Solution
Steve contacted Globus to procure fabric swatches for internal testing against the chemicals in question. Subsequently, a representative from Globus Group conducted an on-site visit to gain a comprehensive understanding of the requirements and work towards a viable resolution. The Globus representative was able to engage with employees directly and observe how the current suits were being used to gain an understanding of the issues experienced. Thorough investigation of the chemical hazards were conducted, chemical testing on fabric swatches provided by Globus allowed Steve to identify and select Chemsol as a more than suitable barrier. A trial order was placed by Steve to facilitate a working trial to provide a head to head comparison with the existing suit. The outcomes of the trial were exceptional compared to Techrete’s existing protective clothing solution. Comprehensive testing revealed significantly reduced abrasion of the tough ChemSol fabric, known for its exceptional chemical-resistant properties. The solution not only translates to extended garment lifespan but also offers a versatile and cost-effective sustainable option, potentially reducing the frequency of purchases. The new Chemsol suit was also found to be lighter and more comfortable to wear in tough working conditions where prolonged wear-times were not uncommon. The suit’s design integrated the innovative Glovezon system, a clever solution to enhance the connection between the chemical suit and gloves. This had been a challenge in the past for Techrete employees, but the new system effectively addressed the issue whilst also being reusable. Post-trial, a positive cultural shift continued within the company, marked by a complete absence of accidents. Additionally, employees experienced increased comfort and flexibility owing to the lighter material, contributing to increased morale and the continuous promotion of a positive health and safety culture.
The level of quality and safety offered by the protective clothing we now supply our workforce with, from Globus, surpasses our previous solution in terms of comfort and longevity. The fabric's exceptional quality and the garment's construction have far exceeded our initial expectations. remarked Steve