PPE for shipyards
Work in nautical maintenance and construction involves the use of numerous chemicals, such as solvents, paints, gelcoats, antifouling agents, and resins. These substances are commonly used in tasks such as stripping, painting, and sanding hulls during renovations.
These activities expose operators to multiple risks, particularly intense dust generated during processes such as molding. These particles can be harmful to their health, as can vapor emissions and chemical splashes.
To assess risks, it is crucial to carefully analyze the form of the chemical. Is it solid or liquid? If liquid, how can it reach the operator? The risks vary depending on whether the product is a small splash, a large spray, or an aerosol.
Finally, knowing the exact composition of the chemical is essential for choosing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensuring worker safety.
PPE: protective clothing on shipyards
In the marine industry, operators handle chemicals and are exposed to hazardous dust. Protective suits are essential for preventing irritation, allergies, and poisoning by creating an effective barrier against splashes and particles.
In addition to protecting against chemical and biological risks, they contribute to user comfort, essential during long workdays. Choosing the right suit ensures safety and efficiency in the demanding environments of this sector.
Coveralls
WeeBack |
WeePro |
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Optimal protection and comfort. Covered seams protect against both aerosols (molding) and dust mists (machining). The ventilated back releases heat accumulated in the garment. |
Protection during low-pressure spray and roller applications. The self-adhesive flap provides complete protection for the most exposed part of the body during the molding phases. Its ergonomic design ensures optimal comfort throughout the lamination phases. |
WeeCover |
WeeJet |
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Hooded coveralls primarily designed for hazardous dust during sanding operations. Designed for maximum comfort with its ultra-breathable material, it features heat-sealed, waterproof seams to ensure the wearer's safety. |
Hooded coveralls that are impervious to strong liquid splashes. Its waterproof outer film protects against certain highly concentrated chemicals. This suit provides ideal protection for stripping work with high-pressure cleaners. |
What risks are workers exposed to on a shipyard?
Shipyard workers face numerous risks related to handling chemicals and performing mechanical operations. These activities expose them to toxic fumes, chemical splashes, and fine dust.
Wearing PPE such as waterproof suits, respirators, heavy-duty gloves, and safety goggles is essential to maintain their health and ensure their daily safety.
Boat maintenance
| Sanding | Chemical stripping | Sandblasting |
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| Wood, plastic, or fiberglass dust projections can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. These fine particles, when inhaled, pose long-term risks to the respiratory tract. | The use of stripping solvents (such as methylene chloride) or alkaline and acidic products (soda, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid) can cause serious chemical burns and respiratory irritation in the event of fumes or splashes. | Solid residues (rust, paint, glue, varnish) generated during this operation can cause mechanical injuries or prolonged exposure to toxic substances. |
| Maintenance and cleaning operations | Shell treatments | Antifouling |
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| Detergents, disinfectants and other cleaning products used present risks of contact with the skin, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions. | Organic resins and solvents (styrene, methyl methacrylate) are highly toxic and emit dangerous fumes. These substances can cause neurological or respiratory problems. | The biocides contained in these products pose risks of acute toxicity to operators in the event of direct contact or inhalation. |
Boat building
| Machining and sanding of materials | Gun casting | Sandblasting |
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Wood, plastic, lead, and fiberglass dust thrown up during these operations can cause respiratory, skin, and eye irritation. In the long term, inhaled particles increase the risk of chronic respiratory diseases. |
Resins applied at low or medium pressure emit styrene vapors, a compound toxic to the central nervous system, which can also cause headaches and respiratory irritation. |
The use of solvent-based paints releases aerosols containing dangerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be inhaled or come into contact with the skin. |
| Hand casting | Preparation of the mixtures | Cleaning tools |
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Direct application of resins results in increased exposure to styrene, both in liquid and vapor form, requiring specific protection to limit direct contact and inhalation. |
Handling cobalt resins, catalysts and salts involves risks of corrosive chemical splashes that can cause burns or irritation. |
The use of solvents such as acetone exposes operators to risks of skin contact and inhalation, leading to irritation or poisoning in the event of poor ventilation. |
These activities require compliance with strict standards, such as EN 14605 for protective clothing against liquid splashes and EN 374 for chemical-resistant gloves.
What PPE is suitable for working on a shipyard?
Respiratory protection masks
Les masques de protection respiratoire sont indispensables pour protéger les voies respiratoires des travailleurs exposés aux émanations de solvants, résines et particules fines. Ces masques filtrent efficacement les aérosols et composés organiques volatils (COV), réduisant les risques de maladies respiratoires et d’intoxications dues à l'inhalation de produits chimiques.
FFP2 Kolmi Oxygen Mass Balance |
FFP3 Kolmi Oxygen Mass Balance |
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Our Kolmi Oxygen Mass Balance FFP2 and FFP3 masks provide effective respiratory protection against aerosols, solid particles, and liquids, ideal for exposed environments such as the marine industry. Certified Type IIR, they also protect against splashes and droplets, while ensuring optimal comfort thanks to their ergonomic shape, soft materials, and ultrasonically welded elastics. They incorporate up to 70% recycled materials according to the Mass Balance approach, guaranteeing performance and environmental responsibility. Hypoallergenic and made in France. |
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Gloves
Safety gloves, such as nitrile or butyl gloves, are crucial for protecting workers' hands from chemical hazards associated with resins, solvents, and products used in maintenance and construction. They provide resistance to chemical splashes and protection against irritation or burns, while allowing for precise handling of tools and materials.
Herkul Grip Extra Strong |
Kolmi Coverfeel Care Long |
SafeTouch Long |
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Featuring a unique 3D textured surface for enhanced grip, even on oily surfaces, they offer maximum dexterity and exceptional durability. Their high chemical protection (JKPT) and quick donning make them ideal for the marine industry. |
Accelerator-free, they offer optimal comfort with high elasticity and good dexterity for easy handling. Their non-slip texture ensures excellent grip. The long cuff guarantees enhanced protection and their robustness ensures increased durability. Ideal for industrial environments.
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Offer optimal comfort and excellent dexterity, with a 290mm cuff for increased forearm protection. Their textured fingers ensure perfect grip in wet and dry conditions. Their robustness guarantees great durability. |
Made in France.
Shoecovers and overboots
Chemical-resistant overshoes and boots provide foot protection against splashes of paints, solvents, and other products. They also protect against falls and exposure to corrosive substances, while also providing protection against moisture and harsh working conditions.
WeePro shoecovers with sole |
Recycled shoecovers with sole - Size XL |
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Ideal for the critical environments of the marine industry. Their low-linting fabric prevents contamination, while their thick PVC sole ensures excellent grip on wet or dry surfaces. The elasticated ankle keeps the overshoe securely in place, providing ideal protection against splashes of low-concentration chemicals, solvents, glues, powders, or fiberglass. Made in France. |
Our recycled shoecovers with sole combine durability and performance. Made from 90% recycled material for the upper and over 50% PE for the sole, they guarantee good mechanical resistance and good grip on the ground. Their anatomical shape allows them to adapt to all types of footwear, making them practical and comfortable, even for prolonged use in wet or technical environments. Made in France. |
WeePro overboots |
WeeJet overboots |
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Offer extended protection up to the knee thanks to their 50 cm height. Their low-linting fabric limits contamination, while their non-slip PVC sole offers increased safety on wet floors. The elastic below the knee and the tie at the calf ensure a secure fit. Their anti-static treatment is an additional advantage for environments with electrostatic and chemical risks. |
Ideal for the most demanding nautical environments. Thanks to their HDPE coating and heat-sealed seams, they offer high protection against concentrated chemicals, biological hazards, acids, petroleum products, and wastewater. Their anti-static treatment, 50 cm height, and support system ensure optimal coverage of exposed areas. |
Goggles
Safety goggles or face shields are essential for protecting eyes from chemical splashes, fine dust, and particles. They are particularly useful when sanding, spraying paint, or applying resins. Anti-fog models ensure optimal visibility, even in hot and humid environments.