Anyone who works with painting knows that the work environment is full of risks: wood dust, paint particles, contact with solvents, the use of cutting machines and tools that require constant attention.
In this scenario, the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is not only recommended, but mandatory to guarantee the health and safety of those performing the service. However, an essential question arises: how can we be sure that the equipment actually protects? The answer lies in the Certificate of Approval (CA).
What is a Certificate of Approval (CA)?
The Certificate of Approval (CA) is a document issued by the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE) that proves that PPE has been tested and approved in accordance with safety standards.
Each CA (Certificate of Approval) has a unique number that identifies the product and allows you to check its validity. This means that, when purchasing equipment with a CA, the worker and the company can be sure that it has undergone technical tests that attest to its effectiveness.
Without this certification, there is no real guarantee that the PPE will fulfill its function when it is most needed.
Why is CA so important?
Having PPE with a Certificate of Approval brings a number of benefits that go beyond simply complying with the law:
- Security: proves that the equipment has been tested and is working;
- Legal protectionCompanies comply with workplace safety standards and avoid penalties;
- TrustWorkers have peace of mind when using a product with an official warranty;
- Risk reduction: lower chance of accidents and occupational diseases;
- ProfessionalismCompanies that use certified products demonstrate a commitment to the safety of their workers.
Sectors that require products with CA
Although all sectors involving risks should use certified PPE, some stand out due to high exposure:
- Automotive repair: contact with solvents, greases, paints, heat and cutting tools;
- CarpentryRisk of cuts, wood dust, varnishes, and use of heavy machinery;
- Civil constructionHelmets, gloves, and safety footwear are essential;
- Metallurgical industryWelding, extreme heat, and risk of burns.
Practical example using a glove with CA certification.
Gloves are one of the most commonly used PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) items in workshops and carpentry shops, but they are also one of the most underestimated.
Purpose: To protect against cuts, abrasions, burns, and contact with chemicals.
Why you need CA: only certification guarantees that the glove has passed specific tests that attest to its resistance to each type of risk (mechanical, chemical or thermal).
The risk of not having CA (Certificate of Approval): using a glove without approval can give a false sense of security and expose the worker to serious accidents.
Practical example: a professional who uses gloves without CA certification while handling solvents may believe they are protected, but the glove material may not withstand the chemical, causing burns and skin irritation.
The newest KORIA product that has CA is precisely the... Gray nitrile glove and the Nitrile Glove Colad black gloves. They are suitable for working with paints and handling solvents. They are thick (0.2mm thick), resistant and do not attract dust particles. They combine extra protection with added comfort due to their high elasticity.
How to check if a product has CA (Certificate of Approval).
One of the great advantages of the Certificate of Approval is its transparency. Anyone can:
- Look for the CA number engraved on the product or packaging;
- Access the official website of the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE) and check the validity and type of protection offered;
- Avoid purchasing or using PPE that does not have a valid CA (Certificate of Approval).;
Here at KORIA, you can check the CA number in the product data sheet, available on the product page under "downloads". In addition to gloves, KORIA also offers coveralls. BodyGuard®, also from Colad, with this certificate.
These simple check-up procedures can prevent serious health problems and even fines for the company.
Purchasing products with a Certificate of Approval (CA) is not just about fulfilling a legal requirement. It's about ensuring that workers are truly protected and that the brand conveys trust and responsibility.
For companies, investing in certified PPE, such as CA-approved gloves, means reducing risks, improving the work environment, and demonstrating professionalism to clients and employees.
