There is a duty to ensure workers are safe, meaning all equipment must be up to standard and the appropriate protective gear is supplied for the working conditions.

As a result of this duty of care, what safety equipment should be available for your workers and how can you ensure their safety in the workplace at all times? 

Personal Protection

A safe workplace is needed first and foremost in the equipment and personal protection provided, but also in the regulations and training for workers must also be in place. Depending on the workplace and conditions, the protection that you need to provide workers varies. It can include hearing, head, eye, foot, hand or arm, body and even respiratory protection.

Personal protection equipment is defined as “All equipment (including clothing affording protection against the weather) which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work which protects them against one or more risks to their health and safety.” You must assess the hazards of the workplace and provide personal safety equipment as appropriate.

Major Hazards

There are many hazards during a building or renovation project that you must be wary of. However, there are some that are much more damaging to workers if not using the correct safety equipment. Major hazards include chemical or metal splashing, dust, projectiles and gas for the eyes. Protective goggles tend to be the best solution for these issues.

Other major hazards in the workplace include falling objects, unusually loud noises or electrical shocks are also major hazards in the workplace. For these issues, you can use safety equipment such as a hard hat, soundproof earplugs and protective gloves or insulated shoes to protect from shocks.

Maintenance of Safety Equipment

To ensure the integrity of this safety equipment it must be looked after, regularly maintenance and stored properly when not in use. Doing so means that it remains in optimal condition for a much longer period.

Maintenance of equipment may also mean ensuring replacement parts are a high quality, i.e. high-quality respiratory filters for masks. Having replacement parts or indeed spare equipment on hand is important in the case of an accident. As if one piece does become damaged or obsolete it needs to be replaced in as quickly as possible.

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