What is a key safety practice when working with high-temperature pipes?

Wearing insulated gloves is crucial when working with high-temperature pipes because they provide the necessary protection against burns and heat exposure. High-temperature pipes can reach levels that could easily harm unprotected skin, so insulated gloves are designed to withstand these extreme conditions. They not only shield the skin from direct contact with hot surfaces but also help prevent heat transfer, allowing workers to handle materials safely without sustaining injuries.

Insulated gloves often have specialized materials that reflect heat or conduct minimal heat, which is essential in environments where prolonged exposure to high temperatures is a possibility. This proper gear ensures that safety is maintained and that the tasks at hand can be performed effectively, minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries related to thermal exposure.

Considering the other options, lightweight gloves may not offer adequate protection from high temperatures, proper ventilation is more relevant for airborne contaminants or gases, and water sprays can be a method for cooling but do not provide direct thermal protection for the hands.