What Safety Wear is required by Different Trades?
There is a whole variety of personal protective equipment (PPE) that should be used and worn appropriately by different trades. From ‘hot works’ to freezing environments, it is important to have safe, durable gear appropriate for the workplace. There are significant differences, for example working in agriculture compared to in radiation or construction industries. Protective shades vary for different welding, cutting and brazing operations in the general industry and the construction industry has separate requirements for filter lens protective levels. Safety clothing may include: eye and face protection, head protection, foot and leg protection, hand and arm protection, body protection, respiratory protection (such as dust masks), hearing protection and fall protection. PPE is often fundamental to safety programs as the correct safety clothing can reduce or eliminate jobsite hazards.
Some trades that require the employer to wear appropriate safety clothing include:
The agricultural sector
The farming industry in particular has to be weather conscious in order to work in a variety of conditions and maintain a good range of visibility. Wax coats, boiler suits, safety boots, wellingtons, hi visibility jackets and waterproof trousers are all essential when it comes to the agricultural sector of work. Specific safety clothing appropriate for cold weather are fleeces, body warmers, gloves, thermal socks and durable, waterproof boots.
Rail workers
Visibility and flame retardant clothing are on the top of the list for a rail worker. Some roles will require hi-visibility, flame retardant coveralls and other safety clothing, whereas others may require formal, presentable clothing. Overshoes, mob caps, beard nets and head torches are accessories which are often essential for engineering and maintenance purposes on the tracks. Chemical splash coveralls and freezer wear jackets are also important safety wear for certain rail worker conditions.
Construction
You will spot the typical road side construction worker wearing a hi-vis waistcoat, helmet and safety boots. There is however, a whole range of safety wear for different jobs within the construction sector. Durable, waterproof workwear trousers, overalls and ear protection are all important features. Face protection kits are fantastic for protecting the whole head from noise and debris.
Engineering technicians & mechanics
Technicians and mechanics have essential safety requirements for certain roles. Overalls in these professions should have knee pads and protective elements. Sturdy safety boots, specialist contractor gloves and jackets should be breathable, waterproof and fire retardant. Helmets, harnesses, face shields, dust respirators and ear plugs are often compulsory.
Hazardous waste disposal
From batteries to chemically contaminated sharps and syringes, hazardous waste disposal can be deemed one of the most dangerous jobs if the appropriate safety precautions are not put into place. Reflective, hi-vis waste management vests are essential as well as chemical splash wear in certain conditions. Correct waste equipment for particular jobs can vary from small sharps disposal boxes to chemical waste Lorries that can transfer flammable, toxic or oxidising agents. Therefore, roles may require face protection kits and fire retardant overalls. Appropriate footwear is extremely important in hazardous waste disposal processes and employers will consult workers on essential safety wear.
Shipyard employment
In the shipyard area of work, repair of large steel plates, welding and electrical work present a number of precautions to take. In particular, head, foot and hand protection is vital due an increase in work injuries over the past decade. Goggles and face shields are particularly effective as well as safety harnesses, durable gloves and solid grip boots.
Appropriate safety clothing and PPE can help you to avoid accidents and injuries at work, so make sure your employees are well protected.
