The right PPE workwear can reduce the risk of any job, protecting you against bumps, trips and falls. But when it comes to PPE for electricians, the most significant threat is something you can’t even see. Working safely with electricity means getting the right balance between protecting yourself with the correct PPE (personal protective equipment) and performing your tasks with ease.
We’ve put together this essential guide to specific PPE for electricians to keep you safe and comfortable, whatever job you’re doing.
Work Safely with PPE
Before starting work on any project, conduct a risk assessment to determine the right PPE for the job.
Make sure you’re trained in using your PPE and know the correct equipment you may need in any situation.
Regularly inspect equipment such as insulating gloves and sleeves for defects and damage. Always replace if necessary.
General PPE
For general work, the most common types of PPE workwear are:
Protective Coveralls
As the name suggests, this type of PPE covers the entire body and provides general protection. Electricians should look for apparel made from arc-rated natural fibre to protect against arc flash hazards.
Dust Masks or Respirators
A dust mask is one of the most commonly used pieces of PPE because it safeguards the wearer against dust, particles and dangerous gases. A dust mask is particularly essential for work that involves drilling into walls to complete an installation.
Hearing Protection
If you’re working in the arc flash boundary, sound levels can rise dangerously high during an arc flash incident. Hearing protection will defend against loud noise and protect you from high-risk situations.
Asbestos Protection
If you’re working in unknown situations where this hazardous substance could be present, make sure you have the correct PPE equipment.
Electrical PPE
Before starting any job, make sure you’re equipped with the right protective gear for the site and the equipment you’ll be working with. The following list includes the essential categories of PPE for electricians to help you work safely on site.
Eye Protection
Eye protection takes the form of protective glasses or safety goggles and is incredibly important. There can be plenty of flying debris and dust onsite, making working conditions extremely uncomfortable. In addition, constant eye irritation can make your eyes itchy and sore. Worse, if left unprotected, your eyes could suffer long-term damage.
A face shield and arc flash hood are necessary when there’s a risk of Arc Flash. If you wear prescription glasses, use over glasses or safety goggles for additional protection.
Electrical Safety Gloves
Protecting your hands is essential when you’re working with sharp-edged ducting or electrical wires. Puncture injuries are a common hazard for electricians, so invest in specialist gloves that still let you feel and grip but offer better protection. Cut-resistant and insulated gloves allow you to maintain your dexterity while protecting you from cuts and shocks.
Hard Hat or Bump Cap
Electricians often find themselves working in low head height situations like cupboards under stairs. As a result, it’s easy to catch your head, resulting in anything from a superficial wound to a concussion. If a hard hat isn’t appropriate, a lightweight bump cap is a stylish way to prevent injury.
Safety Shoes
Steel capped boots are standard PPE, but many electricians prefer safety trainers as they’re lightweight, flexible, and more suitable for climbing ladders and working at height. However, you should invest in dielectric shoes if you’re working in an area where there’s a risk of high voltage electric shocks.
At North Central Office Orders, we stock a comprehensive range of PPE workwear for electricians and construction workers. Shop online or contact us with your PPE and workwear queries.
