Insulating Gloves For Formula 1 - KERS Has A Real Potential To Shock.

By Chris Dodds on 8th July, 2014

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KERS Insulating Rubber Gloves And The Need For Personal Protective Equipment. 

What Is KERS?

Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems (KERS) is the process of capturing the kinetic energy produced during a Formula 1 race when the car is braking. This energy is then stored in the battery ready to be used by the driver later in the lap. Debuted in 2009, KERS was designed with a dual purpose.

The primary purpose of the system is to gather energy for the driver to release into the engine later in the race. KERS also has another important role to play within F1 however - improving the sports environmental credentials. 

T&D supply International Motor Racing Circuits and Teams with KERS Safety Rescue Hooks, KERS Electrical Safety Rubber Matting, KERS Insulating Rubber Gloves, KERS Dielectric Boots and KERS Insulating Shrouding. 

Picture Source:  Honda's Car Wrap Image To Promote Environmental Issues. 

The high voltage of the fully charged KERS battery pack needs careful protection against electric shock – there is a lot of energy stored in the battery, which is at voltages that could cause severe injury if not handled responsibly.

Video: A BMW Mechanic Sustains An Electric Shock After Touching A F1 Car Without Any PPE Or Electrical Insulating Gloves.

In the early days of KERS technology in Formula 1 racing cars, a BMW mechanic sustained an electric shock in 2009 and they now chair the KERS Safety Working Group. The high voltage system is several hundred volts and the potential to be tens of amps, making it pretty lethal. Added to that it is direct current so you can’ t let go!

Personal Protective Equipment of PPE is often a bone of contention between employers and employees. Employers want to buy it cheaply and to a standard size. Employees don’t want to wear it because it is uncomfortable, not the right size or not effective. PPE has to be just that, personal and protective against the hazard identified and it needs to work effectively with other kit.

What Equipment Should Be Worn?

The FIA now recommends a mandatory use of insulating gloves to protect all personnel after an electric shock investigation following the 2009 incident – drivers, team personnel and the voluntary track side marshals who have to go to the aid of faulty or crashed cars at each Grand Prix.

A serious accident showed the risk the KERS posed to anyone who might come into contact with the system. The use of suitable gloves to be worn by all personnel was the solution even though in most cases, PPE would be the last resort as a means of control.

The gloves supplied are available in protection ranges from 500v up to 36000v. Typically for the Grand Prix races, the voltage protection needed is 1000v. These gloves ensure the safety of track staff and prevent electrocution incidents like the shock shown above in 2009. 

CATU Dexteri+ Range Of Gloves. 

The range of CATU Dexteri+ insulating gloves is the ideal choice when it comes to F1 insulating gloves.....

Category:  Electrical Safety & Arc Flash

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