In this article, we’ll look at the protective gear for a blacksmith, as they are equally important as your forge, hammer & tongs. Your safety is undoubtedly important, so while you may start blacksmithing without the tools below, your safety is far from guaranteed. In fact, under ideal conditions, you should never engage in blacksmithing without your safety kit. 

Let’s see what makes up your protective gear below.

5 Protective Gear For A Blacksmith

 

Fiber or Cotton Clothing

 

The last clothing you need is synthetic, or polyester wears, as you’ll be exposed to very high temperatures in your workshop. Either of these materials will melt easily & cause you to burn under such temps. As a result of this, you should have a lot of quality cotton & wool clothes to avoid these accidental burns. Buy a lot of cotton aprons & remember not to wear loose clothing as it catches fire easily.

Earplugs

 

The noise caused by hitting metals on metals in your workshop can be overwhelming & dangerous. The noise level can be as high as 80dB — a very unhealthy level. If such noise is listened to for a long time without protection, you may experience progressive hearing loss. 

To prevent this, earplugs are necessary, although you may have to ensure the discomfort they cause. You can try out earmuffs too. I’ve heard they are more comfortable but slightly costlier.

Thankfully, there’s a lot of brands to choose from. 

Safety Glasses

 

Safety glasses will protect your eyes from the extreme heat generated when heating metals. You need to know that respirator masks cannot replace safety glasses. So, get one or two pairs to use always. You can select between plastic & wooden frames.

Respirator

 

The process of heating metal on metal releases harmful gases that can hurt you, so you have to use a respirator to filter out the toxic pollutants. This will provide you with clean air to breathe. In addition to a respirator, it would be great to have a well-ventilated system in your workshop, so these pollutants are regularly eliminated. 

Note that you should not use a respirator if you suffer respiratory conditions, for example, asthma.

Safety Gloves

 

You won’t be using your bare hands to pick hot metals, but there’s a need to have safety gloves on. This will prevent burns by accidents on your palms, and you’ll effectively avoid calluses too. 

Footwear

 

Being a blacksmith involves the risk of stepping on hot metal, so you need to keep your feet protected. Wear shoes that will not melt or catch fire easily. Industrial boots with steel toes will conveniently do the job, but a pair of boots featuring a metatarsal guard would pass too. 

Concluding The Protective Gear For A Blacksmith

 

The protective gear for a blacksmith has to be taken seriously. Your safety is always a priority. Blacksmithing without these wears will expose you to numerous risks & dangers that may be life-threatening. If you’re low on cash, you can always get used ones at cheaper costs.