Safety Workwear Now Covers A Range Of Options

By Craig White


Safety workwear has come a long way over the past few decades. Specialized equipment and clothing is available to cover virtually every eventuality and every profession. Whether you are a butcher, builder or lecturer, there are certain safety items which you will need.

Many people outside of work-related areas now wear high-visibility clothing. If you are walking the dog or going for a bike ride, high-visibility garments will ensure motorists and others are able to see you. Garments include vests, hoodies, jackets, shirts, overalls and pants. They are usually yellow and/or bright orange. Extra visibility is possible with the addition of reflector stripes.

Those working in industrial areas or in manual laboring occupations will need steel-cap boots. Some are long enough to protect the upper ankle. They may have a combination of zip and lace fastenings. Elastic-sided boots are another option. All safety boots have good resistance to most acids and chemicals as well as to heat and water.

Administration workers on industrial sites might prefer a slip-on sports shoe. These also have steel-capped toes and the soles are resistant to most acids and chemicals. They will also take heat up to 130 degrees Celsius.

Hard hats are obligatory on many sites. When working outside, a brim can be added. These often have a flap at the back to protect the neck. Brow guards are another option. These have clear visors which don't fog. They give almost total UV protection.

Goggles are another important item. Anti-scratch lens are useful. Choose goggles which have a high UV rating and good chemical splash protection. For a comfortable fit, look for foam padding and a wide strap. These can be combined with a dust mask.

Some trades produce undesirable air-borne particles. These need to be filtered from the air being breathed in by operators in the area. Respirators may be a simple, disposable cloth mask or a more complicated affair with replaceable filters. Adjustment points ensure that masks fit snugly against the face.

Deafness is common in many industrial workers. It is extremely important to wear earmuffs if working in a noisy environment. Some simply sit on the head while others clamp to a hard hat. The most comfortable have a low clamping force. These do not exert undue pressure but still maintaining a snug fit. Earmuffs protect ears from sounds up to about 110 decibels. Small, round ear plugs may be used instead and are easily fitted. Many are connected by a cord which prevents them getting lost. They are sold in packaged pairs in boxes of fifty or a hundred.

Those who work with their hands would be well advised to protect their fingers and hands. Long PVC gloves can be purchased and give good defence when handling chemicals, oil and grease. Interlock poly/cotton gloves are often used as liner gloves for greater comfort. Fingerless gloves allow better dexterity and 'feel'. This can also be achieved by choosing gloves which have Lycra in their make-up. The contours of the hand are followed, giving good grip under both wet and dry conditions. With safety workwear, everyone can go about their daily tasks with greater peace of mind.




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