Personal Protective Equipment
Utility Technology: 5G Network, 5G PPE, and Breathable FR Clothing
5G, the fifth generation of wireless technology, is in the early stages of rollout. By 2025, it is estimated that 800,000 additional small cells will be needed for the continuing rollout of the 5G network. However, it will still take another decade for it to be completely rolled out for the entire country – and that means plenty of work for utility workers. Unlike 3G and 4G LTE, 5G is fast enough to handle streaming a 2-hour movie in mere seconds. It will also be used for connected cars and homes and the Internet of Things in addition to cell phones. However, utility workers will be working with a lot of metal near power lines.
The Hazards of Installing 5G
5G doesn’t travel far – about 800 feet from a cell site. Thus, it needs repeaters and other equipment. The repeaters are hung on utility poles with metal straps. This is a danger to utility workers, not just 5G installers.
There is also a debate on the carcinogenic nature of 5G. Some experts believe it is carcinogenic, while others say that 5G is completely safe. While this technology hasn’t been around long enough to determine its effect on long-term health, some organizations, including the World Health Organization, have done studies that show 5G is carcinogenic and needs a cautious approach in its deployment.
Safety Concerns of Working With and Around 5G Equipment
In addition to the above health concerns, working with lots of metal near high-amperage and high-voltage electricity is just asking for trouble. MCR Safety updated personal protective equipment to decrease the risk of utility workers suffering injuries from flash fires, electric arc fires, cuts and punctures from metal parts and more.
5G PPE Work Gloves
Abolox carries MCR Safety products, including gloves. MCR Safety MU3624FR Mustang utility driver’s work gloves are rated A4 for cuts. They are CAT 2 gloves that are also fire-resistant and come in Medium, Large and XL.
The gloves have a Nomex back for extra hand protection. The top-grain leather gives you dexterity and protects against abrasions better than split leather. Because the gloves are made from goat skin, they stay soft and comfortable, even when your hands sweat.
The stitching is Dupont Kevlar thread, and the gloves have a Kevlar lining. These fire-resistant gloves have an arc rating of 24.7 cal / cm and a 91.3 percent heat attenuation factor.
Additional features include a 2.5-inch cuff, a second layer of goat skin in the knuckles, fingertips and palm, and shirred elastic around the wrist.
Breathable FR Clothing
MCR Safety uses Summit Breeze Technology and moisture-wicking material to make its fire-resistant clothing cooler for utility workers and other workers. The Summit Breeze Technology vents the clothing so it’s easier to wear in hot weather. For example, the MCR Safety SBS2003 FR Cotton Long Sleeve and Vented shirt is a CAT 2 flame-resistant shirt with vents.
It protects workers against flash fires and arc flash dangers. MCR Safety’s coveralls have the same technology, so workers can significantly reduce the risk of burns and heat exposure to most of their bodies.
Additional features on some of the fire-resistant shirts include adjustable two-button closures on the sleeve cuffs, ASTM 1930 tested and certified, ASTM F1506 electric arc protection, button-down collar, and double-needle reinforced with Nomex thread.
Visit Abolox for 5G Network Personal Protective Equipment and Fire-Resistant Clothing
When you need fire-resistant shirts, coveralls and other personal protective equipment for working with 5G, browse through our catalog. If you don’t see something you need, call the store, and we’ll source it for you.