WHEN PPE BECOMES A DECISION RISK

How a Pulp and Paper Operation Simplified Protection and Improved Compliance

In complex industrial environments, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) selection can become a point of failure. A large pulp and paper operation faced overlapping chemical and thermal hazards, requiring workers to choose between multiple PPE offerings.

By adopting the PIP^® GORE‑TEX^® PYRAD^® Multi‑Hazard Suit, the site consolidated protection into a single, streamlined system, reducing decision‑making complexity, enhancing comfort and chemical resistance, and promoting more consistent PPE use across the workforce.

THE INDUSTRY: PULP AND PAPER

The Challenge

A 300-person pulp and paper facility faced overlapping chemical and thermal hazards, requiring workers to navigate multiple PPE systems under time pressure, creating decision points where compliance could break down.

The Risks:

CHEMICAL HAZARDS

• Peroxide exposure
• Caustic chemical contact
• Sulfuric acid handling

THERMAL HAZARDS

• Ash handling and contact
• Black liquor exposure
• Flash fire and arc flash risk

The Data:

2 PPE SYSTEMS REQUIRED
Chemical suits AND separate FR/thermal garments for overlapping hazards

$40K+ AVG. INJURY COST
Average cost of a medically consulted workplace injury; severe burns are far higher

~300 WORKERS AT RISK
Operations and maintenance workers are exposed to chemical and thermal hazards

Because of the various hazards, the workers relied on multiple PPE systems: chemical protective suits and separate flame-resistant garments.

This required workers to assess hazards and select the correct PPE for each task. Even with strong training programs, this created:

• Complex decision making at the point of use
• Increased reliance on administrative controls
• Greater risk of incorrect PPE selection, particularly under time pressure or fatigue

Key Insight: When PPE is complicated, compliance suffers, and risk rises.

VOICES & VIEWS

“I’ve been part of serious workplace injuries. I’ve had to take people to the ER and speak with their families. It’s something you don’t forget.”
Safety Supervisor, Pulp and Paper Mill

“The most effective PPE programs don’t just protect — they simplify. One system. One decision. Consistent protection across every hazard.”
Nick Reaves, Manager Product Sales-Work Wear, PIP Global Safety

Key Takeaway

The PIP^® GORE‑TEX^® PYRAD^® Multi-Hazard Suit is the solution.

THE SINGLE SOLUTION: SIMPLIFYING PROTECTION

The facility implemented the PIP^® GORE-TEX^® PYRAD^® Multi-Hazard Suit as a single-solution PPE system, replacing multiple garments with one comprehensive, certified, and comfortable garment engineered for overlapping hazard environments.

Protection Coverage

» Liquid chemical splash protection (NFPA 1992)

» Arc-rated protection (ASTM F1506, CAT 3)

» Flash fire protection (ASTM F1930)

» Molten splash resistance (ASTM F955 test method)

» Water vapor transmission (ASTM E96)

Technology Advantage

» Multi-layer laminate construction to prevent liquid penetration while maintaining thermal protection

» Breathable GORE-TEX^® membrane to reduce heat stress

» PYRAD^® fabric technology engineered for flame resistance without added bulk

Early Results

• Improved confidence in PPE selection
• Reduced concern around incorrect usage
• Positive feedback on comfort vs. legacy systems
• More consistent PPE usage across teams

WHY IT WORKED

By replacing a complex multi-system approach with a single certified garment, the facility reduced decision risk at the moment it matters most: when a worker is under time pressure or fatigue at the point of task execution.

Simplified Training & Compliance
Fewer variables = easier implementation and consistency.

Improved Comfort & Wearability
Breathable, lightweight design supports longer wear, better adoption, and reduces risk of heat-related illnesses.

Increased Worker Confidence
Protection across multiple hazards without second-guessing.

READY TO EVALUATE THE PIP^® GORE-TEX^® PYRAD^® SUIT FOR YOUR SITE?

Take the Next Step

Request a wear trial, speak with a PIP^® Safety Specialist, or download full product specifications to evaluate certified performance data for your hazard profile.

Connect with a Sales Expert to learn more