Thermal protection is a major issue for various workers operating in environments exposed to varying levels of thermal energy. This exposure can include radiant heat, vapours, contact heat, splashes and even contact with molten metals. The primary objective of personal protective equipment (PPE) against heat is to limit or slow down the transfer of thermal energy to prevent burns.

There are various options for thermal protection PPE, each tailored to specific levels of exposure. Garments made from materials such as fibreglass, Kevlar, aluminized Kevlar and PBI are recommended for extreme heat. On the other hand, for less intense heat sources, leather garments, whether or not lined with wool or Kevlar, can offer adequate protection.

It should be noted that all types of thermal energy present a burn risk, but some are more critical than others. Thus, workers exposed to various thermal energy sources will choose PPE according to the nature of their exposure.