Citation

Proctor TD. J. Occup. Accid. 1983; 5(1): 59-74.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1983, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The Foundries (Protective Footwear and Gaiters) Regulations were introduced in 1971 to reduce the risk of injury to the lower legs and feet of foundrymen. Surveys conducted by Her Majesty's Factory Inspectorate in 1972 and 1973, after the introduction of the regulations, showed that although there had been a marginal reduction in burns there were serious inadequacies in the design of gaiters. Eighty-eight per cent of the injuries sustained when approved gaiters were being worn were the result of molten metal entering the top of the gaiter and being funnelled down into the footwear. This design shortcoming, together with problems of comfort and fastening efficiency, had resulted in some workers being unwilling, or even refusing, to wear the gaiters. Research was initiated to overcome these difficulties and after extensive field trials a new style of gaiter has been introduced. Other developments have been taking place in the testing of clothing against molten metal and a draft standard test method is described and discussed.