Company Insight
Sponsored by Ansell
Building safer mines
Protecting hands and bodies in Australia’s toughest environments.
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Mining exposes workers to cut, impact, abrasion, and chemical risks every day. Ansell provides innovative hand and body protection solutions that help miners stay safe and productive across all stages of operation.
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Protecting miners from the toughest risks
Mining remains one of the most challenging and high-risk industries in the world. From underground excavation to open-pit operations, workers face constant exposure to sharp tools, falling objects, machinery vibration, extreme temperatures, and chemical hazards.
Without the right PPE, these daily risks can lead to serious injuries, downtime, and costly operational disruptions. This is why more mining operators across Australia rely on Ansell for protection designed to meet the realities of mining. Explore the full range of Ansell hand and body protection solutions for mining designed to meet industry-specific needs and help workers stay safe and productive in every environment.
Occupational skin disease in mining
In Australia, the mining industry has one of the highest rates of occupational disease across all sectors. Occupational Skin Disease (OSD) is not commonly reported, yet it is estimated to affect up to 51 people per 100,000 workers1, with contact dermatitis accounting for the majority of cases. These conditions often have a poor prognosis and can lead to days lost from work.
Miliaria and Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD) were also observed. ACD is a form of dermatitis or eczema caused by an allergic reaction to a material. Contact dermatitis more broadly refers to skin inflammation that occurs when a substance comes into contact with the skin. Reactions may be allergic or irritant in nature.
Hand and body protection designed for mining
Cut and abrasion protection
Handling rough materials, drill bits, or machinery parts can cause cuts and punctures. Ansell gloves are engineered with advanced fibres that deliver durable cut resistance without compromising dexterity or comfort, helping support precision and safety in every task.
Impact protection
Dropped tools, moving machinery, or falling debris can lead to crush injuries and fractures. Our impact protection solutions combine flexible, shock-absorbing zones with high visibility and grip, helping workers stay protected and aware in high-risk conditions.
Chemical and body protection
Chemical splashes, oils, and fuels are everyday hazards in mining. Ansell protective clothing and chemical-resistant gloves form a complete barrier system that shields workers from harmful substances while remaining breathable and comfortable for extended wear.
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Tailored safety with AnsellGUARDIAN™
Every mining site presents unique challenges. AnsellGUARDIAN assessments use data-driven analysis to help identify the right PPE for specific risks, improving safety outcomes, reducing waste, and optimising glove and garment performance.
By combining durability, innovation, and responsible design, Ansell helps mining teams protect their people and the planet, one shift at a time.
Here are some of the most common questions mining professionals have about PPE and safety
Q: What are the main hazards miners face?
Workers are exposed to cuts, crush injuries, abrasions, and chemical splashes. These risks come from handling sharp tools, heavy equipment, and working with fuels or hydraulic fluids.
Q: Why is hand and body protection so important in mining?
Hands and skin are among the most frequently injured areas in mining. Effective gloves and protective clothing prevent injuries, improve comfort, and help maintain productivity throughout long shifts.
Q: How does PPE help protect against chemical exposure?
Ansell’s chemical protective gloves and clothing provide certified resistance to oils, fuels, and hazardous agents, offering a breathable yet durable barrier that reduces skin irritation and chemical-related injuries.
Q: How cut-resistant gloves keep miners safe?
High-quality cut-resistant gloves have flexible design to lower the risk of cuts, lacerations, and abrasions, while maintaining a secure grip in dry, wet, or oily conditions.
Q: How can mining companies improve PPE compliance?
By selecting comfortable, task-specific PPE and reinforcing safety training, teams are more likely to use protective gear consistently. AnsellGUARDIAN assessments also help ensure PPE aligns with real-world mining conditions.
