What to Look for in Cryogenic PPE
What to Look for in Cryogenic PPE
Working with cryogenic liquids such as liquid nitrogen, liquid oxygen, or dry ice requires more than ordinary protective gear.
At temperatures as low as -196°C, cryogens can cause severe frostbite, cold burns, and tissue damage within seconds. Whether you’re in a laboratory, medical facility, food processing plant, or industrial workshop, choosing the right cryogenic PPE is critical.
Here are the key factors to look for when selecting cryogenic protection.
1. Certified Protection
The most important feature is certification. PPE should be tested and certified.
Standard thermal or freezer gloves may stiffen, lose insulation, or even absorb cryogenic liquid, creating greater risk. Look for cryogenic-specific gloves that are firstly Certified to Australian
standards but also tested to EN 511 (European standard regulating the manufacture and sale of thermal, cold-weather and water-resistant safety gloves.)
2. Multi-Layer Insulation
Cryogenic PPE relies on specialised insulation systems to protect against contact with ultra-low temperatures.
A suitable glove or apron will have multiple layers that:
- Prevent liquid penetration
- Provide effective thermal insulation
- Maintain flexibility and dexterity
Without layered protection, gloves may feel warm initially but will quickly fail under extended exposure.
3. Liquid Resistance
Cryogenic liquids splash and spill easily. PPE must be water-resistant to prevent absorption. Materials such as untreated leather or cotton will soak up liquid nitrogen, trapping it against the skin. Look for gloves and aprons with an outer shell designed to repel liquid and allow it to evaporate away from the skin.
4. Dexterity and Comfort
Handling samples, cylinders, or delicate equipment requires grip and movement. Bulky or rigid gloves compromise safety as much as inadequate insulation. High-quality cryogenic gloves should balance protection with dexterity, allowing the wearer to work confidently and without fatigue.
5. Coverage Options
Cryogenic risks aren’t limited to the hands. Splashes can reach arms, torso, or legs.
That’s why the best PPE ranges offer:
- Multiple glove lengths - wrist, mid-arm, or elbow protection.
- Aprons - shielding the body from splashes during transfers.
- Face and eye protection - to protect splash back to the face.
Always consider the full range of protection needed for the task.
6. Durability and Value
Cryogenic PPE is an investment in safety. Durable gloves and aprons reduce replacement costs, downtime, and injury risk. While cheaper alternatives may seem appealing, the long-term cost of failure, both human and financial, is far higher.
The Cryoskin® Advantage
At Elliotts, we’ve designed the Cryoskin® range of cryogenic gloves and aprons to meet all of these needs.
The new generation of Cryoskin® delivers:
- Certified cryogenic protection
- Advanced multi-layer insulation
- Water-resistant outer shells
- Superior dexterity and comfort
- A full system of gloves and aprons for comprehensive coverage
When you’re handling the coldest materials on earth, ordinary PPE isn’t enough. Cryoskin® gives you the confidence and protection to work safely in extreme cold environments.
Discover the new Cryoskin® range today. Download our brochure or contact us to find out how Cryoskin® can support your team’s safety.