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1. GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics & Paulson Mfg.: Leaders in Arc Flash Safety Pt. 3 of 3

   December 20, 2021 8:10 pm Leave a Comment

   Pt. 3 of 3: Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® Fabric Technology

    

   In our first installment of this 3-part series, we discussed some of the key trends the electrical PPE market, and how GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics & Paulson Mfg. employ advanced technology to improve electrical PPE. Arc flash suits that are lighter weight and more breathable, and face shields that provide enhanced visibility are examples of these improvements and this is driven heavily by feedback from the end-users.

   In the second installment, we discussed the specific technology used in Paulson’s next-gen arc flash face shields.

   For our third and final installment of this series, we’ll take an in-depth look at the technology behind Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® Fabrics, specifically the next-gen single-layer 40-cal suit.

   

   Need in the Marketplace for a Lighter, More Comfortable 40-cal Suit

   Performing tasks exposed to high incident energy with a risk of arc incidents of up to 40 cal/cm² is often physically demanding and requires highly reliable personal protective equipment. The standard compliant 40-cal (CAT 4 NFPA70E / CSA Z462) switchgear suit needed to protect electrical workers are often heavy and based on multi-ply fabric systems. The multi-ply fabric switch suits result in bulkier solutions that lead to restricted freedom of movement and discomfort. This discomfort leads to less wearer acceptance and reduces likelihood to wear the PPE properly.

   Following intensive research and development, and combining proprietary technologies, GORE-TEX Professional has developed the only single-ply CAT 4 (40 cal/cm²) and lightest weight (less than 10 oz/yd²) functional fabric for designing the new Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® suit. High arc protection and the benefits of lightweight, high breathability, and freedom of movement are incorporated into all garment elements. With this innovation from GORE®, electrical consultants, contractors, and electrical and instrumentation (E&I) technicians exposed to arc incidents up to 40 cal/cm² no longer must compromise protection over comfort.

    

   The Science Behind Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® 40-cal Suit

   The Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® fabric technology used in 40-cal switchgear suits consists of four main functional components engineered into a durable single-ply material that interact with each other.

   These components consist of:

   1. Nylon Outer Shell: Brings the benefits of the versatile nylon material, such as easiness to dye into different colors, color fastness, tensile strength, and excellent abrasion and wear resistance.

    

   2. Protective GORE® PYRAD® Fabric Technology: Made up of countless little reactive dots, this breakthrough technology is self-extinguishing. This adds inherent and durable heat, flame, and arc-resistant properties to non-flame retardant textiles such as nylon, while leveraging properties that have traditionally been difficult to achieve with conventional FR textiles.

    

   3. GORE® ePTFE Membrane: The highly breathable and thermally stable GORE® ePTFE membrane provides the required strength, flexibility and mechanical integrity at extremely light weight and thickness.

    

   4. Flame-Retardant Backer: This textile provides thermal stability, reduce burn caused by heat transfer and contributes to optimize the wearing comfort.

    

   Integrating these four key components has produced fabric technology with a unique structure that incorporates air pockets between the layers. This enhances both thermal protection and wearing comfort.

   

   How Does this Fabric Technology React to an Arc Flash?

   During an arc flash exposure, GORE® PYRAD® fabric technology (dots) rapidly reacts to the heat even before the outer shell starts to burn. The reaction of the dots causes them to expand by a magnitude of more than 10x higher than its original size. This forms a stable insulating protective shell of carbonaceous char, with the face fabric (without melting or dripping) blocking the heat transfer to skin, stopping flame propagation, and blocking heat flow from the arc flash exposure. As an additional protective mechanism, the air pockets between GORE® ePTFE membrane and flame-retardant backer expand by adding more air to form an additional insulating layer that blocks heat transfer to the skin. After arc exposure, the fabric exhibits best-in-class mechanical integrity with no hole formation to the innermost layer.

   Key Features & Benefits to the End-User

   Based on rigorous scientific testing, the Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® 40-cal suit has been developed with real-work situations in mind, so that hard-working professionals in challenging environments can stay protected, and simply focus on their important work.

   Compared to multi-layer switchgear suits, the key benefits for wearers of garments made of the single-ply Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® Fabric include:

   • High arc protection
   • High freedom of movement
   • Light weight
   • Reduced bulk
   • High breathability
   • Protection against Incidental flame exposure

   The fabric technology provides a reliable protection above and beyond ASTM F1506 requirements with an arc rating ≥40 cal/cm² (ATPV), allowing fabric elements of the switchgear suit to with NFPA 70E (USA) and CSA Z462 (Canada) CAT 4. It is also up to 20% lighter than competitive products, allowing for a thin, less bulky, yet robust garment with easy donning and doffing. The unique fabric structure not only enables high levels of protection against thermal hazards but allows for more functional garment designs with a high freedom of movement that wearers can feel.

   The material used in the Arc Rated GORE® PYRAD® 40-cal suit is a very breathable fabric that keeps the wearers dry and comfortable on the inside while performing highly physical tasks without compromising thermal protection required in case of an electric arc flash incident.

   To learn more about the rest of standard compliance of this new fabric technology visit the GORE-TEX Professional Website here: https://www.goretexprofessional.com/technologies/gore-pyrad/work-wear-arc-rated-garments-40-cal-suit

   Leaders in Arc Flash Safety

   This wraps up our 3-part series on the latest innovations in arc flash protection fabrics from GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics and next-gen arc flash face protection from Paulson Mfg. To learn more, please contact us today.

    

2. Intro to CNC Machining

   November 18, 2021 4:51 pm Leave a Comment

   Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines have revolutionized the way products are manufactured, and they are now used to create parts for almost every industry. This is due to the work of John T. Parsons, coined the “Father of the 2nd Industrial Revolution,” who created the numerical control. This device led to the creation of the modern CNC machine. Parsons realized that by connecting machines to computers, parts could be assembled more efficiently than ever before. His efforts have allowed for higher standards of living, more cost-effective goods, and more powerful defense systems than previously possible.

   

   

   CNC Machine: What Does It Do?

   A CNC machine’s main function is to take a stock piece of material, and through a controlled process, remove material to create a finished product. The CNC machine follows digital inputs from software like computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and computer-aided design (CAD) to effectively manipulate shop tools to assemble custom parts or pieces of equipment. The computer directs the CNC machine to perform many functions. Some of them include:

   • Spindle turn rates
   • Cutting directions for each axis
   • Cutting speed
   • Control of coolant dispersal

   Basic CNC machines can move along one or two axes, while advanced machines can move laterally in the X- and Y-axes, as well as longitudinally in the Z-axis. Advanced machines can also move rotationally in one or more of the axes enabling them to flip parts over automatically, allowing for more advanced machining capabilities.

   Advantages of CNC Machining

   CNC machines offer several advantages over traditional methods of manufacturing. CNC machining is fully automated, increasing productivity drastically and leaving you with more precise results. Most processes can be automated via a CNC machine today, reducing the amount of manual labor needed for technical and labor-intensive work. Not only is it faster for a CNC machine to perform automated cuts, but the cuts are more accurate, and products can be created much more quickly.

   CNC machining is not only capable of taking raw materials and transforming them into a finished product, but it can also automate packaging. With the right resources, finished products can come out packaged and ready for delivery. This process reduces turnaround time and the risk of human error, leaving you with a more reliable product.

   Common Applications of CNC Machining

   The CNC machine was a breakthrough manufacturing technique that revolutionized the field of machining. CNC machines can perform a variety of functions across a myriad of industries, making them an essential piece of equipment in manufacturing. CNC machining capabilities include:

   • Milling
   • Engraving
   • Cutting
   • Drilling

   Since CNC machines can perform many different functions, they’re the ideal equipment for cutting a variety of products across many industries. Some common applications that CNC machines produce include:

   • Signage
   • Cabinets and Furniture
   • Aluminum and Brass Machining
   • Prototyping and 3D Modeling
   • Musical Instruments

   CNC machines have made prototyping and production processes much more accessible by reducing production costs and enhancing efficiency and accuracy.

   

   Quality CNC Machined Parts from Paulson Manufacturing

   CNC machines manufacture products more efficiently and with less waste than more traditional production methods. At Paulson Manufacturing, we proudly produce high-quality PPE products with the help of CNC machines. If you’re interested in how CNC machines work, or if you’d like to learn more about our services, contact us today.

3. GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics & Paulson Mfg.: Leaders in Arc Flash Safety Pt. 2 of 3

   October 29, 2021 3:11 pm Leave a Comment

   Pt. 2 of 3: Next-Gen Nanoparticle Arc Shields

    

   In our first installment of this 3-part series, we discussed some of the key trends the electrical PPE market, and how GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics & Paulson Mfg. employ advanced technology to improve electrical PPE. Arc flash suits that are lighter weight and more breathable, and face shields that provide enhanced visibility are examples of these improvements and this is driven heavily by feedback from the end-users.

   In this second installment, we’ll discuss the specific technology used in Paulson’s next-gen arc flash face shields. Before we do that, however, let’s look back to the early days of arc flash face shields.

   Legacy Green Arc Flash Face Shields

   Over 20 years ago, Paulson Mfg. was on the ground level of developing a face shield specifically for arc flash protection. The original face shields were made of a propionate material, although several years later the shields were converted to polycarbonate for its durability and heat resistance. To achieve not only the arc flash protection levels but also the visible light transmittance (VLT) requirements set forth by NFPA 70E, we used organic dyes to tint the shields. Originally the shields featured an amber tint, and eventually evolved to a light green tint, which became the standard color for most arc shields on the market.

    

   

    

   Over the years, Paulson’s legacy green arc shields became synonymous with quality, durability and a level of protection that was second to none. However, one drawback to these shields was that the worker’s color recognition could be distorted through the green tint. Color recognition in electrical work is obviously very important, especially when dealing with different colors of wires.

   HT™ Arc Shields – The Future of Arc Flash Face Protection

   Recognizing the need in the industry to improve arc flash face shields, we worked meticulously to create a next-generation shield. Fast forward to 2017, and Paulson launched our HT™ (highly transparent) line of arc flash face shields, which features a grey tint instead of green, significantly improving color recognition for the worker.

    

   Nanotechnology: Benefits Beyond the Grey Tint

   The HT™ arc shield line from Paulson certainly solved a pain point in the marketplace that demanded better color recognition from their arc shields. However, the benefits of our next-gen arc shields go well beyond the grey tint. In fact, we use an entirely different formulation for these new shields. Instead of using organic dyes like we did with our legacy green shields, we employ a nanoparticle formulation with our HT™ arc shields. Nanoparticles are ultra-fine particles that measure less than 100 nm in size. Using nanoparticles derived from metal oxides and dispersed across the polycarbonate matrix of the shield, we were able to achieve not only the new grey tint, but also improved performance in terms of impact rating, UV light resistance, and compatibility with higher quality protective coatings.

    

   In addition to the improved impact and durability, the nanoparticles are more effective at absorbing the energy of an arc flash, which means we can achieve higher protection levels (up to 40 cal/cm²) with a single lens, allowing us to cut down the weight (and the cost) of a 40-cal shield, which historically was always a dual-lens. The result of this proprietary nanoparticle formulation is a premium shield that will provide better visibility & protection and have a longer service life in the field.

   Next Level Comfort & Visibility

   Paulson’s HT™ nanoparticle arc shields offer protection for every arc flash PPE category as laid out by NFPA 70E. Whether it’s our 12-cal and 20-cal AmpShield® line, our arc shields for switchgear hoods, which range from 25-cal to 100-cal, or our premium 3Phase° lift-front arc shields, which range from 12-cal to 100-cal, there is a next-gen face shield solution for every arc flash application. These shields are packed with features and benefits that are the direct result of end-user feedback on what they want and need from their arc flash face shields. Improved visibility, enhanced ventilation, better resistance to fogging and scratching, and longer service life—these are all features that the end-users demanded, and that Paulson has delivered.

   Next Up: In-Depth Look at Arc rated GORE® PYRAD® Fabrics

   Be sure to read our third installment of this three-part series in a few weeks, which will take a deep dive into the technology behind the arc rated GORE® PYRAD® fabrics.

   Please contact us today for more info on the next-gen arc flash PPE from GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics® and Paulson Mfg.

4. GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics & Paulson Mfg.: Leaders in Arc Flash Safety Pt.1 of 3

   September 27, 2021 2:42 pm Leave a Comment

   Part 1 of 3: Electrical PPE Market Overview

    

   

   When it comes to personal protective equipment (PPE) for electrical workers, GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics and Paulson Mfg. are two leading manufacturers that are synonymous with innovation, quality, and above all, a world-class level of protection. Arc rated GORE® PYRAD® fabrics and Paulson arc rated face shields and goggles have been trusted for years by electrical workers around the globe.

   This three-part series will provide an overview of the electrical safety market in general, as well as give an in-depth look at the technology behind these two companies’ world-class arc flash safety products.

   Electrical Safety PPE Market is Growing

   The electrical safety PPE market is expected to exceed $20 billion by 2025. This growth trend is the result of several factors, including an increasing focus on safety in the workplace and desire for greater comfort and enhanced product aesthetics. These demands significantly influence the development and adoption of more innovative personal protective equipment, driving the growth of the electrical PPE market, including for arc flash protection.

   Arc Flash Safety Standards Continue to Evolve

   Until relatively recent, arc flash was thought of as “the other electrical hazard”. Even though electricity had been in use since the late 1800s, research on this electrical event only really began within the past few decades. Although arc flash injuries are not as common as those related to shock, treating arc flash as a secondary risk remains a contributing factor to injuries and fatalities, particularly in the construction industry. As employers increasingly focus on protecting their employees from electrical injury, spreading awareness of the risks of arc flash and the proper PPE required serves as a crucial element of any complete electrical safety program.

   With this increased level of awareness and education around the hazards of arc flash, national and international standards have evolved, with enhanced protection of the end-user as the driving force. The electrical safety standard in the United States, NFPA 70E, lays out the requirements for safe work practices to protect personnel by reducing exposure to major electrical hazards, including arc flash. Both GORE® PYRAD® Fabrics and Paulson arc flash safety products meet these rigorous standards both in the U.S. and overseas, with both companies regularly collaborating with the governing bodies that review and implement these standards.

   End-User Feedback Drives Innovation

   Providing optimal levels of safety will always be the primary objective for any electrical PPE manufacturer. However, enhanced comfort features—such as fabrics that are lighter weight and more breathable, and face shields that provide better visibility—provide value that cannot be understated. Legacy arc flash PPE was bulkier, heavier, less breathable, and less moveable than PPE available today. Not only did this make the end-user less comfortable but increased the likelihood that they would not wear their PPE due to this discomfort.

   Both GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics and Paulson Mfg. offer products with features that keep the end-user in mind. Arc rated GORE® PYRAD® fabrics are used to manufacture the lightest weight 40-cal arc protection suit on the market, while providing unmatched breathability and moveability. The Paulson line of HT™ arc flash face shields offer superior color recognition and feature a nanoparticle formulation for improved durability. These types of features make the end-user more comfortable and increase the likelihood that they will wear their PPE, driving improved levels safety and compliance.

    

   

   The innovation behind these arc flash safety products is driven by feedback directly from the end-user. The overwhelming sentiment within the electrical industry regarding PPE is that it needs to be lighter weight, more breathable, more moveable, and provide better visibility, all while protecting them from electrical hazards. This feedback is a vital component in the development of world-class arc flash safety gear, and the result is PPE that more workers will want to wear, allowing them to do their jobs effectively while remaining protected.

    

   Next Up: In-Depth Look at Paulson Nanoparticle Arc Shields

   Be sure to read our second installment of this three-part series in a few weeks, which will take a deep dive into the technology behind Paulson HT™ nanoparticle arc flash face shields

   Please contact us today for more info on the next-gen arc flash PPE from GORE-TEX Professional Fabrics® and Paulson Mfg.

5. Intro to Plastic Injection Molding

   August 24, 2021 8:09 pm Leave a Comment

   Many industries use injection molding to produce their parts and products. The process enables them to create components of various shapes and sizes in high quantities (i.e., thousands or millions of pieces) quickly, consistently, and cost-effectively. While it can be used with a variety of other materials (e.g., glass, metal, and rubber), it is most commonly utilized for plastic. For example, clear plastic is often injection molded to form personal protective equipment (PPE), such as face shields and goggles, for industry professionals.

   

   The following article provides an overview of plastic injection molding. It highlights what the process entails, key advantages of using it over other manufacturing methods, and challenges faced when conducting injection molding operations.

   What Is the Plastic Injection Molding Process?

   The plastic injection molding process involves heating plastic (in pellet or grain form) until it has melted. The molten material is then injected into a closed two-part mold under high pressure, where it cools and solidifies. Once the material has fully hardened, it maintains the shape of the mold cavity. At this point, the mold can be opened so the piece can be removed and sent for further processing as needed.

   Benefits of Injection Molding

   There are many benefits to using injection molding over other manufacturing methods to produce plastic components. For example:

   • It readily accommodates mass production. The injection molding process can be used to create a large number of components with a high degree of accuracy and precision. Additionally, after the initial costs associated with starting an injection molding project have been paid, the price per unit is very low, with the price dropping as more components are made.
   • It produces little scrap. Unlike other manufacturing processes (e.g., CNC machining), injection molding requires little to no cutting away of excess material to form the component. As a result, it produces much less scrap.
   • It maintains high repeatability. Injection-molded components are practically identical from part to part and batch to batch, which is essential to achieving and maintaining brand consistency and part reliability when making mass-produced products.
   • It offers broad material flexibility. The injection molding process can handle a variety of materials, which allows companies to choose one that suits their exact needs; they can select a material based on highly specific functional and/or aesthetic characteristics (e.g., color).

   Challenges of Injection Molding

   While injection molding offers a number of advantages over other manufacturing methods, it also comes with some challenges, such as:

   • High upfront costs. The cost of producing an injection mold is high. Simple, single-cavity molds start at $2,000–$3000, while complex, multi-cavity molds can be $100,000 or more. However, once the mold has been made, the manufacturing cost per additional unit is relatively low.
   • Long lead times. Since injection molding projects typically require the manufacture of a custom mold, which can be a time-consuming process, the project lead time is generally longer than is normal for other plastic manufacturing methods. However, once the mold is manufactured, it can be used to produce millions of pieces over its lifetime.
   • Large part limits. The size limitations of injection molding machines and molds often require large components to be produced as separate pieces that need to be assembled later.

   

   Quality Injection-Molded PPE Products From Paulson Manufacturing

   The injection molding process can be used to produce parts and products for various industries. At Paulson Manufacturing, we leverage the technology to make high-quality, dependable safety equipment for industrial workers and fire responders. By carefully designing and building our own molds, we ensure we create solutions that surpass even the most rigorous safety standards. To learn more about injection molding in general or our capabilities, contact us today.

6. Radiant Heat Protection for Mill & Foundry Workers

   July 19, 2021 7:41 am Leave a Comment

   Mill and foundry workers cast molten metal into shapes by melting the metal into a liquid, pouring the metal in a mold, and removing the molded material after the metal has solidified. The most common metals processed are aluminum and cast iron. This process involves an extreme amount of radiant heat, and it is critical that these workers have proper PPE to protect them from this heat. This can include aluminized hoods with heat reflective face shields, as well as aluminized or heat resistant suits, gloves, and spats.

   Aluminum melts at around 1200° degrees Fahrenheit. Steel at around 2500° Fahrenheit. Titanium at a whopping 3000° degrees Fahrenheit. We all enjoy products made from steel, aluminum, etc. but very few of us know what it takes to transform the raw metals into millions of different products used across the world. Proper PPE is crucial to mill and foundry worker safety, and Paulson has been supplying gold hard coated (aka metalized) heat reflective face shields to this industry for decades.

   

   A Brief History on Paulson's Gold Hard Coated Face Shields

   The origins of our gold hard coated face shields go back 35 years when Paulson was contracted by the U.S. Navy to build a face shield for aircraft rescue & firefighting (ARFF). Fires onboard aircraft carriers can burn at extreme heats, particularly when jet fuel is involved. To battle this type of radiant heat, they needed a heat reflective face shield. The resulting product was our first gold hard coated face shield to be used with firefighter helmets. This is a great example of a military technology applied to commercial applications.

   Immediately following the development of this shield for the Navy, we turned our focus to the steel and metal industries and started making gold hard coated face shields to be used by mill and foundry workers across the U.S., and eventually across the globe. Over the years we have made many improvements in the adhesion, heat rejection and hard coatings associated with these shields. Today, our gold hard coated shields are made with 99.99% fine gold dispersed on an injection-molded polycarbonate face shield in a vacuum chamber. A protective hard coating is then applied over the gold coating to minimize scratching to the shield and extend its service life. The gold coating not only blocks the extreme radiant heat from the molten metal, it is also designed to optimize the visible light transmittance (VLT) to allow the best possible view while working.

   Radiant Heat Protection at a Lower Cost

   While our gold hard coated shields have stood the test of time in terms of reliability and durability, the one drawback can often be the high price. Because these shields are made with actual gold, our prices are directly affected by the cost of gold, which continues to increase year after year. That said, we wanted to make a heat reflective face shield option for mill and foundry workers that would offer similar protection but cost about half as much as our gold hard coated shields. This led to the development of our new aluminized heat reflective shield made from flat, die-cut polycarbonate sheet material (as opposed to our gold hard coted shields made from polycarbonate resin that is injection molded to shape). We then laminate the clear sheet material with an aluminized film that provides the radiant heat protection.

   To be clear, our economy aluminized heat reflective shields will have a shorter useful life than our gold hard coated shields. Because the economy shield does not have a protective hard coating, it will deteriorate faster over time. However, for mill and foundry workers seeking radiant heat protection (especially for use with “lower” temp molten metals like aluminum), our economy heat-reflective shields provide excellent protection at an affordable price.

   There is no question that the men and women of the molten metal industry face the challenges of high heat conditions while processing raw materials that are among the most vital to the global economy. Our heat reflective face shields have a proven track record of safety, durability, and comfort. Paulson is committed to continuous improvement and innovation to ensure these workers are protected and safe while they are doing their jobs. For more information on our metalized face shields, please contact us today.

7. What is Nanotechnology and Why is it Utilized in our Arc Shields?

   June 22, 2021 8:48 pm Leave a Comment

   Despite being relatively new, nanotechnology has advanced quickly over the last few decades, thanks to dedicated research by the National Nanotechnology Initiative. Products enhanced by nanoparticles, like scratch-proof glasses and self-cleaning glass, are being used in healthcare, materials science, transportation, and more, and these exciting innovations are only the beginning of what is possible.

   

   At Paulson Manufacturing, we are proud to apply nanoparticle technology to our face shields for visual clarity and reliable protection in even the most challenging and hazardous work environments.

   What is Nanotechnology?

   Nanoparticles are ultra-fine particles that are less than 100 nanometers in diameter, and nanotechnology is the science and engineering of these tiny particles. It is a science that has numerous applications across industries and scientific disciplines, from physics and biology to engineering and materials science. Through extensive study and careful manipulation of these particles, researchers have developed specialized nanomaterials with unique properties that make them especially suited for specific applications.

   What are Some Key Benefits of Utilizing Nanotechnology?

   By altering a material’s structure at this level, the material can be customized with the characteristics that will help it perform optimally in a specific application. These are just a few of the qualities that can be changed or enhanced:

   • Strength
   • Weight
   • Electrical conductivity
   • Chemical reactivity
   • Filtration ability

   The possibilities are endless. Nanotechnology is being used to create stain- and wrinkle-resistant fabrics, lightweight body armor, self-cleaning and anti-fog glass, water-repellent surfaces, more resilient sporting equipment, new fuel sources, efficient air purifiers, energy-saving and pollution-reducing catalysts, wear-resistant coatings for automobile components, more powerful household cleaners, dirt-resistant paint, and much more.

   Nanotechnology Integrated into Paulson Face Shields

   At Paulson Manufacturing, we have integrated a proprietary nanoparticle formulation into our arc flash face shields to absorb black-body radiation while allowing high visible light transmission and color perception to ensure vision is not compromised. Our nanoparticle-enhanced arc flash PPE is also designed for the following:

   • UV Light Resistance: The nanoparticles resist UV light and will not degrade over time. The shields are anti-fog and abrasion resistant, as well.
   • Evenly Distributed Absorbers: With even distribution of nanoparticles across the polycarbonate matrix, the Paulson arc shield ensures maximum absorption of dangerous radiation at all points on the shield.
   • Enhanced Reliability: While coatings and films are susceptible to scratching and abrasion that limits their protective ability, nanoparticles are much more resistant to daily wear and tear. They retain their ability to block arc flash radiation over time.

   Nanotechnology offers industry-changing advancements and opportunities, and Paulson Manufacturing is proud to lead the way by integrating this technology into our arc flash PPE to create a safer, more reliable solution for those who depend on their PPE every day. We are committed to staying on top of changing technology and trends to ensure we are offering the best protection possible, and we look forward to future innovations in nanotechnology.

   Since 1947, Paulson Manufacturing has been providing comfortable, high-quality face shields, goggles, and other protection for arc flash, industrial, tactical, firefighter, and infectious disease safety. Our products are manufactured in the United States under ISO-9001 guidelines, and we handle the entire production process in-house to help you save time, money, and hassle. Contact us to learn more about arc flash PPE, nanotechnology, and how we’re utilizing nanoparticles to create better safety solutions for workers everywhere.

8. The Paulson Rundown: Riot Shields 101

   May 12, 2021 8:40 pm Leave a Comment

   
   When it comes to occupational hazards, some are more severe than others. For law enforcement officers, a riot situation is certainly one of the more severe hazards they face on the job, and it is imperative that they have proper PPE to protect themselves with. For riot control, this typically includes riot suits with light body armor, helmets with face shields, handheld riot shields, gloves, knee shields and goggles.

   There are various types of handheld riot shields on the market, including opaque (non-transparent) shields, interlocking shields that can be connected to other officers’ shields, and fully transparent shields, usually made of a durable plastic like polycarbonate. Most riot shields in use today have a rectangular shape, although smaller round riot shields are not uncommon.

   

   Riot Body Shields from Paulson Mfg.

   Paulson Mfg. has been making riot shields for decades. Our riot shields provide protection from a wide variety of weapons and projectiles while providing superior optics from the transparent polycarbonate material. Ranging in thickness from 1/8” to 1/4″, our shields are designed to withstand impact from blunt force and projectiles. In fact, our 1/4″ models are V-50 rated for fragmentation.

    

   Other features of our riot shields include:

   • Durable polycarbonate shields with formed radius & ergonomic features
   • Optically correct transparent view with minimal distortion
   • Dielectric handle and break-away strap to prevent electrical pass-through
   • Handle & strap can be reversed for right or left-handed use
   • Rectangular models available in dimensions of 20 x 36” or 24 x 48”
   • Round model available with 24” diameter for enhanced mobility
   • Made in the U.S.A.

   Capture Shields

   While our riot body shields are designed for riot control situations, usually in an open space like streets and city blocks, our capture shields are designed for use in a correctional or institutional setting. Our capture shields feature a concave curve, as opposed to a convex curve on our body shields. This feature assists during cell extraction, as the officer can use the capture shield to restrain an unruly inmate against a wall or floor of a cell. Also, while the body shield is designed for single handed use to allow the officer to wield a baton in the free hand, the capture shield features two solid handles meant for one officer to use with both hands. When extra holding power is needed, two officers can each grab a handle with both hands at the same time.

   

   While You Serve,  We Protect

   Paulson Mfg. has been a trusted provider of PPE for law enforcement and military for decades. We understand that these products will be used in very hazardous situations where the threat of personal injury (or worse) is very real. Our handheld riot shields are made from the highest quality materials right here in the U.S. and are a direct result of feedback from the field that drives our innovation. We are proud to serve the men and women of law enforcement and the military with quality products they can depend on.

   For more information on Paulson’s riot control PPE, please contact us today!

9. UV Protection for Construction & Utility Workers

   April 8, 2021 3:36 pm Leave a Comment

   As we begin to enter the time of year of warmer and sunnier days, outdoor workers from all industries know the importance of protecting themselves from UV and heat exposure. Things like staying properly hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing such as sunglasses and hats are all common practices for outdoor workers in the warmer months of the year. For construction and utility workers, who mostly perform outdoor tasks, staying protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays is critical in preventing sun burn, sun poisoning, and skin cancer.

   Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and worldwide. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, with more than 2 people dying of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour. While having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma, when detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99 percent. Construction and utility workers need to take extra precautions to protect themselves when working outdoors to limit their exposure to the sun and UV radiation.

   Sun Shields by Paulson Mfg.

   

   One of the best ways for construction & utility workers to protect themselves from harmful UV exposure is to wear proper protective clothing, which includes a hardhat. Most experts agree that a wide brim hardhat is best for covering as much of the head, neck, and face as possible, and there are various accessories that can attach to the hardhat for added protection. One such accessory is the protective sun shield made by Paulson Mfg. Designed to extend the brim of both full-brim and front-brim hardhats, our sun shields provide additional UV protection than just wearing the hardhat by itself.

   Other Features & Benefits Of Our Protective Sun Shields Include:

   • Models to fit most manufacturers’ full-brim and front-brim hardhats
   • Dark grey transparent section in the front that allows for excellent upward vision
   • Rated for electrical utility work, with a melt/drip rating of 8.7 cal/cm²
   • Made in the USA

    

   Working With An Industry Leader

   Sun exposure can often be overlooked due to the more fatal or ‘seen’ hazards found on construction sites. Keeping awareness of UV radiation dangers high among construction & utility workers can go a long way in preventing both painful sunburns and the potential for skin cancer.

   Paulson Mfg. has been making protective equipment for construction & utility workers for decades. We understand the importance of protecting these workers from various hazards on the job, which includes less obvious hazards like UV exposure. Preventative measures like wearing sunscreen and proper protective clothing are good practices for all outdoor workers.

    

   For more information on our protective sun shields, please contact us today.

10. Why Quality Fire Control PPE Is Essential

    March 5, 2021 9:04 pm Leave a Comment

    Firefighters rely on a variety of personal protective equipment to ensure their safety as they serve the community and save lives. Gloves, boots, and helmets may come to mind, but firefighter PPE is not complete without appropriate eye protection. Fire goggles protect a firefighter’s eyes from heat exposure, smoke, flying debris, glass, dust, and wind, which can be present in a number of emergency situations, from car accidents to house fires and medical emergencies.

    

    Eye Damage That Could Be Prevented

    In 2008,  80,000 firefighters were injured on the job. While sprains, strains, and muscle injuries account for many of those, there were about 4,000 eye injuries, which added up to direct and indirect costs of $18 million. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says about 90% of all eye injuries could be prevented if people wore proper eye protection—which would mean 3,600 of those firefighter eye injuries could have been avoided, saving time, money, and heartache for both the individual and the fire station.

    For firefighters, preventing eye injuries means using face shields and safety glasses or goggles. Losing your vision could mean losing your career, and it takes the brain a long time to adjust to partial vision loss—which has implications far beyond the job site. Adapting to partial vision loss can take even longer than complete vision loss, as the brain struggles to understand the input it’s receiving through your compromised eyes. In general, the older a person is, the longer it takes to adjust; however, it will be about three years before a person gets used to having one eye.

    The mental, emotional, and financial costs of that are staggering, which is why it’s essential for a firefighter—and anyone else, for that matter—to take every precaution in situations where their eyes may be at risk.

    What Are Common Types of Fire Control PPE Goggles?

    Paulson Manufacturing produces several types of eye protection according to NFPA standards and regulations. These products are designed to protect firefighters without hindering their work.

    • A-TAC® Firefighter Structural Series: With six models to choose from, this series can withstand extreme temperatures (up to 500° F) for more than five minutes. They offer fog resistance combined with a hard-coated outer lens, and all models meet ANSI Z87.1 standards along with NFPA 1971, 1977, and 1951 performance standards. Different models offer the choice of elastic or silicone straps, nose guards, and more.
    • A-TAC® Firefighter Wildland Series: Designed for woodland firefighters, these models serve in temperatures of 350° F while meeting NFPA 1977 and ANSI Z87.1 standards. Like the Structural Series, they offer fog resistance and a hard-coated outer lens.

    Paulson Manufacturing also produces accessories, replacement lenses and straps, and infectious disease control (IDC) goggles to protect first responders from exposure to pathogens. They’re affordable and disposable, and serve to protect the wearer from liquids that may splash in their eyes as well as smoke and airborne particles.

    Why Paulson Is an Industry Leader in Fire Control PPE

    We understand what’s at stake. Our mission is nothing less than to provide the highest quality safety and protective gear to help firefighters and other emergency responders do their jobs as safely as possible. Your trust and confidence in us means everything, and we work to maintain that trust.

    Our wide range of fire goggles, face shields, and protective accessories meet NFPA regulations, which means they offer adequate protection while allowing firefighters to perform their job duties without hindrance. We offer options to ensure you find the solution that best matches your application.

    

    With more than 70 years of industry experience, Paulson Manufacturing has established itself as a trusted developer, manufacturer, and distributor of fire goggles and more. All of our products are tested and certified before reaching our customers around the world. We’re committed to ongoing innovation, so that we may always provide the most comfortable, most effective safety solutions using the latest technology and materials available.

    Contact us to learn more about firefighter PPE and how we serve the fire, medical, industrial, tactical, and arc flash industries with protective equipment specifically designed to match the hazards these workers face on the job.