Scilabub : What PPE for working in safety in cryogenic environments?

British specialist in cryogenic PPE, Scilabub designs the Frosters range – gloves, mittens and accessories – for handling at ultra-low temperatures. Available from Dutscher, the brand safeguards operations involving liquid nitrogen, cryopreservation and cold rooms across life sciences, quality control, R&D and production labs. Comfort, dexterity and protection combine for precise handling – from biobanking to IVF, including the logistics of sensitive samples.

The ultra-low temperature specialist trusted by laboratories

Founded in the UK out of textile engineering applied to cold-risk protection, Scilabub has established itself as one of the longstanding names in cryogenic protection for laboratory use. With its Frosters line, the brand has steadily expanded its range of gloves and equipment for handling under liquid nitrogen and working at -196 °C. The Nomex range also delivers high-temperature protection with gloves and aprons. Its growth has been built on constant dialogue with users — biobanks, cell culture platforms, research centres and the pharmaceutical industry — to optimise thermal insulation, dexterity and durability. Now distributed worldwide, Scilabub remains committed to meticulous manufacturing and uncompromising safety standards.

Expertise and areas of specialism

Scilabub focuses its expertise on cryogenic PPE and high-heat PPE that are both high-performance and ergonomic. The Frosters gloves – in five-finger or mitten versions – provide effective multi-layer insulation while preserving the dexterity required for precise tasks: sample transfers, rack handling, opening cryoboxes. Available in several sizes and lengths of gauntlet, they meet the needs of the workstation from the bench to the liquid-nitrogen dewar. The construction minimises liquid uptake and stays supple at very low temperatures. The design favours a soft palm and a secure grip; a low-lint lining limits particle generation. They’re easy to wear over disposable gloves to keep manipulations clean.

The Frosters accessories complete the protection: sleeves, aprons and chest-protection solutions for work over dewars or in cold rooms. Field-tested on dry ice (-78 °C), in cold rooms, cryoshippers and LN2 workstations, the products are engineered for hazards linked to extreme cold, cryogenic surfaces and accidental splashes; they are not intended for prolonged immersion. In biology, cryopreservation (cells, tissues, straws), IVF, bioproduction, quality control, teaching and cryostorage maintenance, Scilabub delivers a reliable, repeatable solution.

Our teams help you choose the right configuration (length, glove type, combination with other PPE) and define best practice. Goal: effective, durable and comfortable protection, day after day.

Scilabub products supplied by Dutscher

Scilabub brand FAQs

Which Scilabub products does Dutscher supply?
The Frosters range: cryogenic gloves in multiple sizes and gauntlet lengths, plus protective accessories (sleeves, aprons) for handling at ultra-low temperature. Also the Nomex range—gloves and aprons—for protection against high temperatures.

Up to what temperature do the gloves protect?
Designed for hazards from liquid nitrogen and contact with ultra-low-temperature surfaces (down to ?196 °C). They protect against brief contact and splashes; they are not intended for immersion. The Nomex range protects against temperatures up to 250 °C.

Are the PPE certified?
Yes—these are CE-marked PPE for protection against cold. Declarations of conformity and technical datasheets are available from Dutscher on request.

How do I choose the right gauntlet length?
Match length to the risk: bench work and cryoboxes (wrist/forearm); working above dewars or reaching deep into vessels (elbow/shoulder). Our team will advise based on your tasks and workstation.

Can Frosters gloves be cleaned?
A gentle surface clean is recommended. Air-dry, away from heat sources. No industrial laundering and not autoclavable; refer to the Scilabub instructions for limits.

Where are Scilabub products made?
They are designed and manufactured in the United Kingdom, under stringent quality control. Dutscher provides distribution, advice and after-sales service across Europe.