PPE in Construction: Why Is It So Important to Use PPE?
Even if PPE isn’t the most fashionable of work clothes, it is essential. PPE refers to Personal Protective Equipment and encompasses a wide range of protective clothing and accessories for a numerous industries.
PPE is particularly critical in construction because of the safety concerns that arise during all phases of work. It aids workers and visitors against potentially harmful situations which can cause injury or even death. This article will walk you through the many reasons why PPE is so essential in construction.
Why Is PPE Necessary In Construction?
Unfortunately, the construction industry has one of the highest fatal and non-fatal rates. There were 39 deaths in 2020/2021 and 61,000 non-fatal injuries. One of the biggest causes of accidents is falls from a height. In addition, there is daily use of heavy machinery, so it is not surprising that this is the case.
It’s critical for everyone working on a construction site to wear PPE since the environment is hazardous. Whether it’s wet floors, falling debris, pointed tools, or heavy equipment, PPE reduces the danger of damage or injury.
What kinds of (PPE) are necessary on a construction site?
Workers must wear specific clothing or protective gear to comply with health and safety standards. For PPE items to conform with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2002, all items must be CE marked. For people to be safe on construction sites, the following must be used:
- Foot protection
- Body protection
- High-visibility clothing
- Head protection
Additional protection might include how to carry tools around a worksite like a Veto Tool Bag.
1. Head Protection
Everyone on a construction site are legally required to wear protective headgear. Even short-term visitors must wear protective headgear. There’s always the danger of falling debris or material; high-quality protection will prevent injuries if anything were to fall.
2. Protective Footwear
Construction sites pose several dangers to feet. Protective shoes much be worn to protect them from objects falling on them or from stepping on sharp objects. On most construction sites, you will need steel toe boots with midsole support.
There are a variety of types of protective footwear available. To protect workers from cement getting between the spaces in specific shoes, those working with this building material may be required to wear wellington books.
3. Extra Body Protection
Construction sites do not allow shorts. Trousers are typically preferred since they protect the legs from cuts and scratches. Duties performed may even require the use of knee pads to guard against knocks and scrapes. Those kneeling a lot, may find knee pads offer comfort as well.
4. High-Visibility Clothing
For a good reason, high-vis vests on construction sites are essential. Most construction sites have a hi-vis policy that requires personnel to wear them at all times.
In contrast to the other items on this list, hi-vis clothing does not provide physical protection, yet it is critical that everyone on site can be seen clearly while moving around. It’s a must-have for any construction worker. Full hi-vis clothing, such as trousers and a long-sleeve jacket, may be worn for additional safety.