Work environments aren’t created equal in terms of the potential risk to employees. Specific jobs across the country will require workers to have amped up protection from possible hazards. Working with bodily fluids, extreme temperatures, chemicals are only a few examples of the risks. Personal protective equipment, often referred to as PPE, plays an essential role in the workplace of thousands of worksites. Without proper protection, even a small cut can turn into a potentially life-threatening situation. In almost all circumstances, safety clothing is required by law, but here are a few ways how it keeps your employees safe.
When it comes to protecting your workers, there aren’t many vital things quite like protective equipment. Overalls, gloves, eye goggles, hard hats, and shoe covers can all be part of it. Choosing to wear proper protection daily can mean the difference between a significant accident or having a typical day.
Situations That Call For Safety Clothing
Working in a higher risk environment needs careful preventative measures in place, including the PPE. Any worksite that could have possible injuries resulting from contact with electrical, chemical, or radiation need to have the equipment to reduce or eliminate dangerous exposure. Proper gear is essential but is also must be tailored to the specific needs of the individual.
Avoid Mistakes Using PPE
It might sound surprising, but a significant factor for injuries are employees not wearing the required safety clothing or accessories. Here are some reasons why.
- The employer is not enforcing it
- They think it will be uncomfortable
- Improper training with using it
The good news is that safety clothing has become more comfortable, and advancements have been made to ensure it will protect your workers from all possible hazards. Happy employees in an environment that keep them safe is a win for employers.
Employers are responsible for providing PPE to any employee who may be exposed to these hazards. Also, they should enforce safety clothing is used appropriately. A mitigation plan can be used to reduce the threats of these potential hazards. Once it is determined that your employees need to wear safety equipment, you must ensure protocols. For example, all employees need to know what dangers are present, how to use their PPE correctly, and proper disposal of the equipment. At least annual or semi-annual training for all workers on any updates at the facility is recommended. Remember, you are ultimately responsible for making sure safety is implemented and kept relevant for years to come. Workplace accidents are common for businesses that become lax on the proper education of their employees.
It Is An Excellent Business Move
Injuries in the workplace cost businesses billions of dollars every year. Understanding the necessity for safety clothing not only keeps your employees safe, but it is good for your business. Take the extra step to give your workers the protection they deserve. When your employees come to work every day knowing that they are the safest they can be, it makes them much happier as a result. It could also save you from an expensive lawsuit, as well.
Kelly Manuel is a writer and illustrator who has been published in many books for children. Her favorite things to do are read, draw, and play with her dog. Kelly Manuel was born on October 18th, 1985. She grew up as an only child but she always had lots of dogs around the house because her parents were both veterinarians. She loved reading from a very young age and would often make up stories about the dogs that came into the clinic where she lived with her parents.