Let’s be honest: nobody wakes up in the morning excited to put on a hazmat suit. It usually means you’re about to tackle a job that is messy, dangerous, or a delightful combination of both. But when that job involves hazardous materials, your choice of work wear isn't just a fashion statement—it’s the only thing standing between you and some very nasty health complications.
At Indigo, we’ve been in the game since 1998, so we know a thing or two about keeping people safe. We stock a massive range of industrial supplies, but today we’re focusing on the heavyweight champion of protective clothing: the Tyvek suit. specifically, the Tyvek Type 5 and 6.
Whether you are a seasoned pro in the asbestos removal industry or a facility manager ensuring your team is kitted out correctly, understanding why these suits are the gold standard is vital. Let’s dive into the world of disposable suits without getting too bogged down in the scientific jargon (though we do love a bit of spec-sheet reading).
What Does "Type 5/6" Actually Mean?
If you look at the packaging of Tyvek coveralls, you’ll see a lot of numbers and symbols. It can look a bit like hieroglyphics if you don’t know what you’re looking for. In the world of protective clothing, these "Types" refer to European standards of protection.
Here is the simple breakdown:
- Type 5 (Particle Protection): This ensures the suit provides a barrier against airborne solid particulates. In plain English? It stops dangerous dust, like asbestos fibres, from getting through the fabric and onto your skin or clothes underneath.
- Type 6 (Limited Liquid Splash): This offers protection against light spray and liquid aerosols. It won't save you if you decide to go swimming in a chemical vat, but for splashes and sprays, it has you covered.
When you see Tyvek disposable coveralls Type 5/6, you are looking at a garment designed to handle the specific, dual-threat environment often found in construction and demolition sites.
Tyvek vs. Polypropylene Coveralls: What’s the Difference?
We often get asked, "Can't I just use the cheaper stuff?"
Well, you can, but it depends entirely on the risk. Standard polypropylene coveralls are fantastic for basic hygiene tasks, keeping paint off your jumper, or general grime protection. They are breathable and cost-effective. However, their filtration efficiency isn't in the same league as Tyvek.
Tyvek suits are made from flash-spun high-density polyethylene. This unique material offers an inherent barrier. The protection isn't a film or a coating that can wear off; it goes all the way through the fabric. It is tough, resistant to tearing, and remarkably comfortable considering how robust it is.
When dealing with asbestos, you don't want "good enough." You want the best. That is why Tyvek is the go-to brand for asbestos supplies.
The Full Kit: It’s Not Just About the Suit
While a high-quality suit is the star of the show, proper asbestos removal requires a supporting cast of site supplies to ensure the job is done legally and safely. You can’t just put on a suit, rip out a ceiling, and hope for the best.
At Indigo, we act as a one-stop shop for the entire process. Here is what a typical safety load-out looks like alongside your coveralls:
1. Containment is Key
Before any removal starts, you need to secure the area. We supply heavy-duty polythene sheeting to seal off work zones. To keep that sheeting in place, you need adhesive tapes that actually stick. We aren't talking about standard office tape here; you need cloth tapes and duct tapes that create an airtight seal to prevent fibres from escaping.
2. Bag It and Tag It
Once the hazardous material is removed, it needs to go somewhere safe. You cannot simply toss it in a bin liner. We stock regulation asbestos sacks (both red and clear) to ensure compliant double-bagging of waste.
3. Warning the Neighbours
Safety isn't just about the person in the suit; it's about everyone else, too. You don't want Dave from accounting wandering into a containment zone looking for the coffee machine.
To prevent this, we offer a full range of signage and demarcation tools:
- Hazard warning tape and barrier tape to physically cordon off areas.
- Safety signs to provide clear instructions.
- Specific asbestos warning signs to make the danger crystal clear.
Why Buy Your Asbestos Supplies from Indigo?
We know you have options when buying industrial supplies. But we like to think we offer a little more than just a box of gear.
- We’ve been around: Established in 1998, we have decades of experience. We aren't a fly-by-night operation; we are a staple in the industry.
- We hate being beaten on price: We offer a price beater guarantee. If you find the same product cheaper elsewhere, we will do our utmost to beat it. We believe safety shouldn't cost the earth.
- People seem to like us: We have a 5-star Google rating. It turns out that delivering quality products on time makes customers happy. Who knew?
- Massive Stock: From work wear to janitorial supplies, we stock a massive range of products designed for the asbestos removal industry.
Gear Up and Stay Safe
Asbestos removal is serious business. It requires serious gear. Whether you need a bulk order of Tyvek suits for a major demolition project or just some barrier tape and safety signs for a small renovation, we have the stock ready to go.
Don't compromise on safety. ensure you are equipped with Tyvek Type 5 and 6 protection. It’s the smart choice, the safe choice, and—if you shop with Indigo—the affordable choice.