I think I speak for most construction workers when I say safety is essential, and nobody should argue otherwise. That being said, making sure you or your team has the latest safety equipment before starting to work on your next project is of paramount importance. In the construction industry, project scope and size oftentimes defines which pieces of safety equipment are mandatory. However, some other businesses enforce their own safety standards in addition to the WHS (Workplace Health & Safety) requirements.
If you’re shopping for safety equipment, you might find it under a few different terms – safety equipment, protective equipment or even personal protection equipment. You’ll typically find safety and protection equipment in stores that sell industrial products and supplies, which can be online or in many industrial retail stores near you. The most essential pieces of safety equipment usually include a helmet, a safety harness, hearing protection, and boots.
There are countless different manufacturers that produce industrial products on the market, so it’s easy to be confused when looking for the right one that fits your needs and requirements. Your best bet is to look online, and browse through a dozen websites before making a trip to an actual store, in case you don’t find anything worthwhile online. The advantage of searching and buying online is that you can see all the specifications of the equipment from the comfort of your own home, and compare many different brands.
Speaking of brands, in most cases, the difference between them is oftentimes just personal preference and individual comfort. The most important thing by far is being comfortable in the safety equipment you’re wearing, and being able to freely move around in it. Comfort is also important so that you’re encouraged to always wear it, and so that it provides you with optimum protection. Different manufacturers usually means slightly different fits, and some minor differences in specifications, so play around until you find the ideal equipment for yourself.
A lot of construction workers feel like they don’t always have to wear their protection equipment. However, even when you perform the simplest, and safest of tasks, if I may say, you should still wear your safety equipment. Using power tools, climbing and hammering can significantly increase the risk factor, even if you’re just a bystander.
Wear and tear can reduce the protection levels of some equipment. For instance, hard hats can get their structure compromised and this way they won’t offer suitable protection. Reducing the risk in a high risk area, like a construction site is as simple as wearing a hard hat, safety glasses and a safety harness. So consider whether spending a couple of tax-deductible dollars is worth your peace of mind.
