Abstract
The article discusses the impact of hazardous production factors on metallurgists, depending on the working conditions, for different sub-sectors of the metallurgical industry. The classification of sub-sectors of ferrous metallurgy is examined. The main problematic areas of workwear, which experience the most wear during operation, are identified, and based on the types of injuries to workers, the main requirements for materials when designing special clothing are outlined. Based on a detailed analysis of the working conditions of metallurgists, namely the exposure to elevated temperatures in the form of: thermal radiation, climatic conditions, open flames, contact with hot surfaces, sparks, and splashes of molten metal, as well as the study of characteristic human movements, new prerequisites for determining rational artistic, design, and technological solutions for workwear are proposed. Ergonomic requirements for the design of special clothing characterize the preservation of the thermal balance of the under-garment space, ensuring that the design of the product matches the shape of the human body both statically and dynamically; ease of use of individual elements of the product. Having considered the requirements in the system "metallurgist - protective suit - external environment", we can formulate the most significant ones: special clothing must provide protection from high temperatures, must not be heavy, the suit must ensure freedom of movement of the worker. The presented research results can be used to improve work suits, increase their durability, and ensure labor safety in the metallurgical industry. They can also be applied to optimize the production and operation of workwear.