Why are these Navy machine gunners wearing gloves and masks?

Why are these Navy machine gunners wearing gloves and masks? - Two Men Holding Two Gray Metal Tools
  1. Why are these Navy machine gunners wearing gloves and masks? I've watched many films where someone fires a machine gun, but never wearing gloves and masks.

  2. Why haven't their protected their eyes with goggles or full face respirators? Their eyes are exposed.

This series ante-dates COVID19, so disease prevention isn't the reason. And the patrol boat is too far from the enemy, so preventing chemical or poison gas isn't the reason.

I screenshot 37:58 of S4E12 of Sea Patrol that portrays the Royal Australian Navy.

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Best Answer

This is standard Anti-flash gear

Anti-flash gear, also known simply as flash gear, is basic personal protective equipment consisting of a fire-resistant hood and fire-resistant gloves, often made of Nomex.

The purpose of anti-flash gear is to provide protection to the head, neck, face and hands from short-duration flame exposure and heat. This equipment is donned by shipboard navy personnel whenever a fire breaks out or during periods of heightened readiness.




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Why do navy crews wear white masks and gloves?




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