The Fundamentals of Torch Charcoal: Characteristics, Standards, and Performance

Types of Torch Charcoal

Torch charcoal comes in a wide variety of forms, each engineered for specific performance characteristics and applications. From grilling and smoking to fire starting and air purification, the right type of charcoal can significantly impact efficiency, flavor, and ease of use. Understanding the differences between these types helps users make informed decisions based on their needs—whether for cooking, camping, or industrial use.

Charcoal Briquettes

Uniform, compressed blocks made from ground charcoal, binders, and often pre-treated with lighter fluid for easy ignition.

Advantages

• Consistent size and shape for even burning
• Long burn time ideal for extended grilling
• Easy to light (especially quick-light varieties)
• Widely available and affordable

Limitations

• Chemical additives may affect food taste
• Produces more ash than natural alternatives
• Less eco-friendly due to binders and fillers

Best for: Casual backyard grilling, beginners, long cookouts

Natural Charcoal

Pure charcoal made without additives, typically from compressed hardwood or coconut shells.

Advantages

• No chemical aftertaste on food
• Produces clean, flavorful smoke ideal for smoking meats
• Eco-friendly and biodegradable
• Favored by professional chefs and pitmasters

Limitations

• Slightly harder to ignite without accelerants
• Can be more expensive than briquettes
• Less consistent in size and burn rate

Best for: Gourmet cooking, restaurants, flavor-sensitive applications

Lump Charcoal

Raw chunks of charred hardwood with no binders or additives—pure carbonized wood.

Advantages

• High heat output (up to 1400°F)
• Ignites quickly and burns hot
• Produces minimal ash
• Excellent temperature control for searing and grilling

Limitations

• Burns faster than briquettes
• Inconsistent sizes require careful arrangement
• Requires more attention during cooking

Best for: High-heat grilling, searing, experienced BBQ enthusiasts

Activated Charcoal

Charcoal treated at high temperatures to increase porosity and surface area for maximum adsorption.

Advantages

• Exceptional toxin and odor absorption
• Used in medical treatments for poisoning
• Effective in water and air filtration systems
• Used in detoxifying food and skincare products

Limitations

• Not suitable for primary grilling fuel
• Expensive compared to cooking charcoals
• Limited availability for culinary use

Best for: Medical, environmental, and specialty culinary applications

Prefabricated (Quick-Light) Charcoal

Briquettes or lump charcoal infused with wax, paraffin, or combustible fibers for instant lighting.

Advantages

• No lighter fluid or chimney starter needed
• Extremely convenient and beginner-friendly
• Ideal for quick meals or emergency use
• Consistent ignition every time

Limitations

• Chemical taste can transfer to food
• Less environmentally friendly
• Generally lower heat output than natural options

Best for: Novice grillers, camping, fast outdoor cooking

Hexagonal Firelighters

Small, hexagon-shaped briquettes designed specifically for starting fires in grills and stoves.

Advantages

• Compact and lightweight
• Long burn time for reliable ignition
• Easy to store and transport
• Often made with natural materials like sawdust and vegetable oils

Limitations

• Not a primary fuel source
• Limited heat output beyond ignition
• May require multiple units for larger grills

Best for: Camping, portable grills, fire starters

Coconut Shell Charcoal

High-density charcoal made from carbonized coconut shells, prized for clean and long-lasting burn.

Advantages

• Very long burn time (up to 3–4 hours)
• Produces little smoke and no sparks
• Ideal for hookahs and shisha
• Highly sustainable and eco-friendly

Limitations

• More expensive than standard briquettes
• Lower heat output than lump charcoal
• Primarily used in niche applications

Best for: Hookahs, indoor grilling, air purifiers, eco-conscious users

Type	Burn Time	Heat Output	Taste Impact	Best Use Case
Charcoal Briquettes	Long	Medium	Moderate (chemical aftertaste)	General grilling, long cookouts
Natural Charcoal	Medium	High	Neutral (clean flavor)	Gourmet cooking, smoking
Lump Charcoal	Short	Very High	Minimal (pure wood flavor)	Searing, high-heat grilling
Activated Charcoal	N/A	Low	None (non-combustible use)	Detox, filtration, medical
Prefabricated Charcoal	Medium	Medium	Noticeable (chemicals)	Quick meals, beginners
Hexagonal Firelighters	Short	Low	Minimal (if used properly)	Fire starting, camping
Coconut Shell Charcoal	Very Long	Medium-High	Neutral (clean burn)	Hookah, eco-friendly use

Expert Tip: For the cleanest flavor and best performance, combine natural lump charcoal with a chimney starter—avoid lighter fluid altogether. This method ensures a chemical-free burn and precise temperature control for superior grilling results.

Key Features of Torch Charcoal: A Buyer’s Guide

When selecting torch charcoal for grilling, smoking, or outdoor cooking, understanding its core features is essential for achieving optimal results. Torch charcoal is specifically engineered for high performance, safety, and flavor enhancement. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most important characteristics buyers should consider before making a purchase.

1. High Heat Output

Intense Temperatures for Perfect Searing

Torch charcoal is renowned for its ability to generate extremely high temperatures—often exceeding 1,000°F (538°C). This intense heat is ideal for searing meats like steaks, burgers, and chops, creating a flavorful, caramelized crust through the Maillard reaction.

The rapid surface cooking helps lock in juices while developing rich, complex flavors. This makes torch charcoal a top choice for chefs and grill enthusiasts who prioritize restaurant-quality results at home or on the go.

2. Compact and Portable Design

Convenient for On-the-Go Grilling

Many torch charcoal products—especially briquettes and hexagonal blocks—are designed with portability in mind. Their compact shape allows for easy storage and transportation, making them ideal for camping trips, picnics, tailgating, or use with small portable grills and smokers.

The uniform size also simplifies fuel measurement, enabling precise control over heat levels and burn duration. This consistency enhances cooking predictability and reduces waste.

3. Long Burn Time

Sustained Heat for Extended Cooking

High-quality torch charcoal, particularly lump charcoal and dense briquettes, offers an extended burn time that can last several hours without needing replenishment. This sustained combustion is perfect for slow roasting, smoking meats, or indirect grilling methods that require steady, low-to-medium heat over time.

Long burn efficiency reduces the need for frequent refueling, allowing for more hands-off cooking and consistent temperature control—key advantages for barbecue purists and competitive pitmasters alike.

4. Clean and Chemical-Free Composition

Healthier and Eco-Friendly Grilling Option

Many modern torch charcoal brands prioritize sustainability and health by using natural, chemical-free production methods. Premium options are made from renewable sources like coconut shells, hardwood scraps, or sustainably harvested timber, without synthetic binders, accelerants, or petroleum-based additives.

This clean-burning profile results in reduced smoke, fewer toxic emissions, and a safer grilling environment—ideal for health-conscious consumers and environmentally aware users who want to minimize their carbon footprint while enjoying flavorful outdoor cooking.

5. Sparking and Flare-Up Control

Enhanced Safety and Cooking Consistency

One of the standout safety features of premium torch charcoal is its reduced tendency to spark or cause sudden flare-ups. Engineered for stable ignition and controlled combustion, these charcoals minimize the risk of grease fires and accidental burns.

This controlled burn leads to more even cooking, prevents charring or overcooking, and creates a safer experience for families, beginners, and outdoor chefs cooking in close proximity to others or flammable materials.

6. Aroma and Flavor Enhancement

Natural Smoky Flavor for Authentic BBQ Taste

Torch charcoal imparts a distinctive, smoky aroma that enhances the taste of grilled foods. Lump charcoal, in particular, retains the natural essence of the wood it was made from—whether oak, hickory, mesquite, or coconut—adding subtle, authentic flavor notes to meats, vegetables, and seafood.

For barbecue lovers, this feature is invaluable. It replicates the traditional open-fire grilling experience, delivering the rich, smoky depth that gas or electric grills often lack, making every meal taste like it was cooked over a classic wood fire.

Feature	Benefit	Best For
High Heat Output	Rapid searing and crust formation	Steaks, burgers, kebabs
Compact & Portable	Easy storage and transport	Camping, travel grills, small spaces
Long Burn Time	Extended cooking without refueling	Smoking, roasting, slow grilling
Chemical-Free	Cleaner burn, safer emissions	Health-conscious users, eco-friendly cooking
Low Spark/Flare-Up	Improved safety and even cooking	Family grilling, indoor-outdoor use
Flavor Enhancement	Natural smoky taste	BBQ, traditional grilling enthusiasts

Important: Always choose torch charcoal from reputable brands that disclose their ingredients and manufacturing process. Avoid products with artificial accelerants or unknown fillers, as these can affect food safety and taste. Store charcoal in a dry, cool place to maintain its quality and ensure reliable performance every time you grill.

Uses of Torch Charcoal: From Grilling to Medical Applications

Torch charcoal is best known for its role in outdoor cooking, but its applications extend far beyond grilling. When processed into activated charcoal, it becomes a powerful adsorbent used across medical, industrial, and consumer sectors. Below is a comprehensive overview of its diverse uses, benefits, and practical applications.

Grilling and Barbecuing

Torch charcoal is a preferred fuel source for grilling due to its high heat output, long burn time, and ability to impart a rich, smoky flavor to food. It ignites quickly when used with a torch lighter, making it ideal for searing steaks, roasting vegetables, and preparing a wide range of grilled dishes.

• Reaches high temperatures (up to 700°F) for perfect searing and caramelization
• Produces minimal smoke once fully lit, enhancing flavor without excess soot
• Compatible with kettle grills, smokers, and portable barbecues
• Preferred by chefs for its consistent heat and authentic taste profile

Pro tip: Allow charcoal to ash over for 10–15 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.

Camping and Outdoor Cooking

Due to its portability and ease of use, torch charcoal is a staple for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s lightweight, stable during transport, and requires no electricity or gas infrastructure, making it perfect for remote locations.

• Ideal for campfires, tailgating, beach cookouts, and hiking trips
• Works with compact grills and fire pits designed for outdoor use
• Can be safely extinguished and reused if not fully burned
• Often paired with fire starters or ethanol gel for quick ignition

Safety note: Always extinguish charcoal completely before disposal to prevent wildfires.

Emergency Cooking

In disaster scenarios—such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or power outages—torch charcoal serves as a reliable alternative cooking method. Its long shelf life and independence from electrical grids make it a key component of emergency preparedness kits.

• Burns for 1–3 hours per load, sufficient for boiling water or cooking meals
• Effective for pasteurizing water in survival situations
• Used in conjunction with portable stoves or improvised grills
• Stores indefinitely in dry, sealed containers

Critical use: Boiling water with charcoal can help prevent waterborne diseases during emergencies.

Medical and Surgical Applications

When processed into activated charcoal, torch charcoal becomes a vital tool in emergency medicine. Activated charcoal has a highly porous structure that adsorbs toxins, drugs, and poisons in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing systemic absorption.

• Used in hospitals to treat drug overdoses (e.g., aspirin, acetaminophen)
• Administered orally or via gastric tube within 1–2 hours of ingestion
• Effective against a wide range of toxins, including pesticides and certain chemicals
• Non-absorbable, so it passes through the digestive system safely

Important: Not effective for alcohol, heavy metals, or corrosive substances like bleach.

Air and Water Purification

Activated charcoal derived from torch charcoal is widely used in filtration systems due to its exceptional adsorption capacity. It traps impurities at a molecular level, improving air and water quality.

• Removes chlorine, sediment, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and odors from drinking water
• Used in home water filters, aquarium systems, and reverse osmosis units
• Captures allergens, smoke, and indoor pollutants in air purifiers
• Employed in HVAC systems and industrial scrubbers for gas filtration

Did you know? A single gram of activated charcoal can have a surface area exceeding 3,000 m².

Industrial and Laboratory Uses

Activated charcoal plays a critical role in manufacturing and research environments. Its ability to capture vapors and contaminants makes it indispensable in purification and safety protocols.

• Used in solvent recovery and chemical processing in petrochemical plants
• Purifies pharmaceuticals by removing impurities during production
• Adsorbs hazardous fumes in laboratory fume hoods and respirators
• Applied in gold mining to extract gold from cyanide solutions (carbon-in-pulp method)

Technical insight: Regenerable activated carbon can be reused after thermal reactivation.

Cosmetics and Skincare

The detoxifying properties of activated charcoal have made it a popular ingredient in beauty products. It helps draw out dirt, oil, and bacteria from pores, making it ideal for acne-prone and oily skin types.

• Found in face masks, cleansers, toners, and spot treatments
• Helps reduce blackheads and improve skin clarity
• Used in toothpaste for natural teeth whitening by removing surface stains
• Often combined with clay, tea tree oil, or salicylic acid for enhanced effects

Beauty trend: Charcoal-infused soaps and scrubs are marketed for deep cleansing and detoxification.

Portuguese Tart Filling and Culinary Uses

While not directly used in Portuguese tarts (pastéis de nata), activated charcoal derived from torch charcoal is used in specialty culinary applications. It’s sometimes used to create "charcoal tea" or infused beverages believed to support digestion and detoxification.

• Used in health-focused drinks and supplements for its purported cleansing benefits
• Added to batters or doughs for a dramatic black color in gourmet pastries
• Popular in modernist cuisine for visual contrast and novelty
• Must be food-grade activated charcoal to ensure safety

Caution: Not intended for daily consumption; consult a healthcare provider before dietary use.

Expert Insight: While raw torch charcoal is excellent for cooking, only activated charcoal should be used in medical, cosmetic, or filtration applications. The activation process (through steam or chemicals) dramatically increases its surface area and adsorption capacity, transforming it from a fuel source into a functional material.

Application	Form Used	Key Benefit	Common Settings
Grilling & BBQ	Raw torch charcoal	High heat, smoky flavor	Backyards, restaurants, events
Emergency Cooking	Raw torch charcoal	Fuel independence	Disaster relief, survival kits
Medical Detox	Activated charcoal	Toxin adsorption	Hospitals, emergency rooms
Water Filtration	Activated charcoal	Removes chemicals & odors	Home filters, aquariums
Skin Care	Activated charcoal	Deep pore cleansing	Beauty products, spas
Industrial Purification	Activated charcoal	Gas & solvent recovery	Factories, labs, refineries

Additional Considerations

• Environmental Impact: Sustainably sourced charcoal reduces deforestation; look for FSC-certified or coconut-based alternatives
• Safety: Never use activated charcoal near oxygen sources—can be flammable under certain conditions
• Storage: Keep raw charcoal dry and in a sealed container to maintain ignition efficiency
• Regulations: Medical-grade activated charcoal is regulated by health authorities (e.g., FDA, EMA)
• Myth Busting: Charcoal does not "detox" the body beyond the digestive tract—claims of systemic detox are not scientifically supported

How to Choose the Best Torch Charcoal for Your Grilling Needs

Selecting the right charcoal is essential for achieving optimal grilling results, whether you're searing a steak, smoking ribs, or preparing delicate seafood. The type of charcoal you use affects heat output, burn time, flavor profile, ease of ignition, and environmental impact. This comprehensive guide breaks down the key factors to consider when choosing torch charcoal, helping you make an informed decision based on your cooking style and preferences.

Important Note: Always store charcoal in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Damp charcoal can be difficult to light and may produce excessive smoke or inconsistent heat.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Charcoal

• Grilling Style

  The method and intensity of your grilling should be the primary factor in selecting charcoal. For high-heat searing—ideal for steaks, burgers, and kebabs—opt for lump charcoal or natural hardwood logs. These types ignite quickly and reach temperatures of 700°F or higher, delivering that perfect char and grill marks.

  If you're planning indirect grilling or slow-cooking techniques like smoking brisket or ribs, a more controlled and consistent heat source is preferable. In such cases, high-quality briquettes or coconut shell charcoal offer better temperature stability over extended periods.

• Flavor Preference

  Charcoal significantly influences the taste of your food. For a rich, traditional smoky flavor, choose wood-fueled briquettes or hardwood lump charcoal made from oak, hickory, or mesquite. These are excellent for barbecue classics like smoked chicken, pork shoulder, or ribs, imparting a robust, savory depth.

  If you prefer a cleaner, more neutral taste—especially when grilling fish, vegetables, or poultry—consider coconut shell charcoal or all-natural hardwood lump charcoal. These burn with minimal ash and produce a subtle, sweet aroma that enhances rather than overpowers delicate ingredients.

• Burn Duration and Heat Control

  Consider how long you plan to cook. Standard charcoal briquettes are engineered for long, steady burns—often lasting 3–5 hours—making them ideal for low-and-slow barbecue sessions where consistent heat is crucial.

  On the other hand, lump charcoal burns hotter and faster, typically lasting 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This makes it perfect for quick grilling tasks like searing steaks or cooking burgers in under 30 minutes. While it requires more attention to manage heat, it offers greater responsiveness for experienced grillers.

• Ease of Use and Ignition

  For beginners or those seeking convenience, quick-light briquettes are the most user-friendly option. These are infused with ignition agents that allow them to light easily with a match or lighter, reducing startup time. However, they may contain additives that affect flavor and air quality.

  Natural lump charcoal requires more effort to ignite—often needing a chimney starter or electric igniter—but offers a purer grilling experience without chemical residues. It’s favored by purists and those who enjoy the ritual of traditional open-flame cooking.

• Environmental Impact

  Sustainability is increasingly important in outdoor cooking. If eco-friendliness is a priority, look for charcoal made from renewable sources like coconut shells or sustainably harvested hardwood. Brands that use recycled wood waste or certified sustainable forestry practices help reduce deforestation and carbon emissions.

  Avoid briquettes containing coal dust, limestone, or petroleum-based binders, as these release harmful pollutants when burned. Opt instead for natural, additive-free options that produce less smoke and ash, contributing to cleaner air and a smaller environmental footprint.

Charcoal Type	Best For	Heat Level	Burn Time	Flavor Profile
Lump Charcoal	High-heat searing, wok cooking, pizza grilling	Very High (600–900°F)	1.5–2.5 hours	Natural wood flavor (varies by wood type)
Charcoal Briquettes	Long cooks, smoking, beginner grilling	Moderate to High (400–600°F)	3–5 hours	Consistent, slightly chemical (if additives present)
Coconut Shell Charcoal	Indoor grilling, delicate foods, eco-conscious users	High (500–700°F)	2–3 hours	Clean, neutral, slightly sweet
Wood Chunks/Logs	Smoking, traditional open-fire cooking	Variable (adjustable with airflow)	2–4 hours	Strong, aromatic (depends on wood species)

Pro Tip: Combine different charcoal types for optimal results. For example, use lump charcoal for intense heat and add wood chunks for flavor infusion. This hybrid method gives you control over temperature while enhancing the taste of your grilled dishes.

Additional Tips for Optimal Charcoal Performance

• Use a chimney starter instead of lighter fluid to avoid chemical taste and ensure even ignition.
• Arrange charcoal in a two-zone setup (hot and cool areas) to allow for both direct and indirect cooking.
• Let the charcoal burn until covered with a light gray ash before cooking—this ensures stable, even heat.
• Store unused charcoal in an airtight container to maintain dryness and longevity.
• Experiment with small batches of different charcoals to find the best match for your taste and cooking style.

Choosing the right torch charcoal goes beyond convenience—it directly impacts the flavor, texture, and success of your grilled meals. By considering your grilling style, flavor goals, burn time needs, ease of use, and environmental values, you can select a charcoal that enhances every cookout. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a backyard barbecue enthusiast, the right fuel makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions About Torch Charcoal and Grilling

Q1. Can the torch keep the charcoal lit for an extended period?

A1. Yes, one of the key advantages of torch charcoal is its ability to maintain a consistent, long-lasting burn. Designed for durability and efficiency, torch charcoal can stay lit for several hours, making it ideal for slow barbecuing, low-and-slow smoking, or any cooking method that benefits from sustained heat. This prolonged burn time allows for even cooking and enhances the development of deep, smoky flavors in meats and vegetables—perfect for achieving that authentic barbecue taste without frequent refueling.

Q2. What are some factors to consider when purchasing charcoal for sale?

A2. Choosing the right charcoal for resale or personal use depends on several important considerations to meet customer expectations and ensure optimal grilling performance:

• Customer Preferences: Determine whether your buyers prefer quick-lighting charcoal, natural hardwood lump, or specialty smoking blends. Understanding taste profiles and cooking styles (e.g., searing steaks vs. smoking brisket) helps guide inventory decisions.
• Grilling Method: Different grills—kamado, kettle, offset smoker, or gas-assisted setups—work best with specific types of charcoal. For example, lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner, while briquettes offer longer, more consistent burns.
• Ignition Ease: Torch-compatible charcoal is engineered for quick and reliable lighting using a propane torch, reducing reliance on lighter fluid and minimizing flare-ups.
• Burn Duration & Heat Control: Look for charcoal that provides stable temperature control over extended periods, especially important for smoking and indirect grilling.
• Eco-Friendliness: Many consumers now prioritize sustainably sourced, chemical-free charcoal made from renewable hardwoods without fillers or binders.
• Packaging & Storage: Consider moisture-resistant packaging and portion sizes that suit both casual users and serious pitmasters.

By aligning your selection with these factors, you can offer a product line that meets diverse grilling needs and enhances customer satisfaction.

Q3. What is the difference between torch charcoal and regular charcoal?

A3. While both torch charcoal and regular charcoal serve as fuel sources for grilling, there are notable differences in design, performance, and user experience:

Feature	Torch Charcoal	Regular Charcoal
Ignition Method	Specially formulated to be lit easily with a propane torch; no lighter fluid needed.	Typically requires chimney starter, lighter fluid, or electric starter for ignition.
Lighting Time	Faster and more controlled—ready in 5–10 minutes with a torch.	Can take 15–25 minutes depending on method and conditions.
Burn Consistency	Engineered for uniform density and airflow, resulting in steady heat output.	May vary in burn rate due to inconsistent composition or moisture content.
Flare-Up Risk	Reduced flare-ups thanks to cleaner burn and minimal additives.	Higher risk when using lighter fluid or low-quality briquettes.
Use Case	Ideal for precision grilling, searing, and smoking where control is key.	Suitable for general-purpose grilling but less predictable at high temps.

In summary, torch charcoal offers greater convenience, faster start-up, and improved heat management, making it a preferred choice for experienced grillers and culinary professionals seeking reliability and flavor control.

Q4. What are some uses of a torch besides grilling?

A4. While torch charcoal is primarily associated with outdoor cooking, the propane torch used to ignite it has a wide range of practical and creative applications beyond the grill:

• Camping & Outdoor Cooking: Ideal for campfire-free cooking in areas with fire restrictions; quickly lights stoves, campfires, or portable grills.
• Emergency Preparedness: Useful during power outages or natural disasters for heating food or boiling water when traditional methods aren’t available.
• Air and Water Purification: A high-temperature torch can sterilize equipment, seal filters, or assist in purifying water by heating it to boiling point in survival situations.
• Culinary Techniques: Chefs use culinary torches for caramelizing sugar (e.g., crème brûlée), searing meats, or charring vegetables for enhanced flavor and presentation.
• Cosmetic & Skincare Applications: In professional settings, micro-torches are used in dermatology and esthetics for controlled heat treatments, though not directly on skin—more commonly for tool sterilization or wax preparation.
• DIY and Home Projects: Handy for plumbing (soldering pipes), removing paint, bending materials, or sealing synthetic fabrics and plastics.

The versatility of the torch extends far beyond grilling, making it a valuable tool in kitchens, workshops, and emergency kits alike.

Q5. What are some features of torch charcoal that avoid sparks and flare-ups?

A5. Safety and control are central to the design of high-quality torch charcoal. Several engineered features help minimize sparks and dangerous flare-ups during grilling:

• Dense, Uniform Composition: Made from compressed hardwood with minimal dust and fines, reducing the likelihood of sudden ignition or popping embers.
• Low Volatile Content: Processed to remove excess sap, moisture, and volatile compounds that can cause unpredictable burning and flame surges.
• Controlled Airflow Design: The shape and structure of the charcoal allow for even oxygen distribution, promoting steady combustion rather than rapid bursts of flame.
• No Chemical Additives: Unlike some traditional briquettes, premium torch charcoal avoids petroleum-based accelerants that increase flare-up risks.
• Resistant to Moisture: Often packaged in sealed, weather-resistant bags to prevent dampness, which can lead to sputtering and uneven burns when ignited.
• Pre-Ignition Stability: Designed to glow and heat gradually under torch flame rather than ignite explosively, giving users better control over the start-up phase.

These features collectively create a safer, more predictable grilling experience—especially important when cooking near flammable materials, in windy conditions, or around children and pets. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and use proper protective gear when operating a torch or handling hot charcoal.