PPE, or personal protective equipment, is designed to keep workers and employees safe from potential workplace injuries and illnesses. It is the last line of defence against injuries resulting from contact with physical, electrical, chemical or mechanical hazards.

Why is PPE Important?

When it comes to risk control, PPE is considered the last resort. It’s only appropriate when the danger or hazard in question cannot be controlled or totally removed from the workplace through control measures.

Thus, and given the nature of this context, PPE becomes critically important because it prepares workers and employees for health and safety risks, giving them extra protection in the event of accidents or against their work elements.

What are the Different Types of PPE Workwear?

PPE plays a vital role in preventing and reducing work-related fatalities when measures to control risks are insufficient.

PPE can be split into several categories, such as:

• Respiratory protection
• Foot and leg protection
• Body protection
• Height and access protection
• Eye protection
• Head and scalp protection
• Hearing protection
• Hand and arm protection

In some situations, and depending on the nature of the job, disposable PPE workwear, especially PPE for health and safety purposes, such as single-use scrubs or coveralls, may be provided.

Make sure to touch base with suppliers before purchasing any of these items. Potential users should always be kept in the loop in the selection of protective equipment and more than one model should be available for them to wear. Men’s workwear and women’s workwear often come in different sizes, which is why it’s important to consult with the user first.

PPE, however, does not include:

• Ordinary uniforms not designed to provide for the safety of individuals
• Uniforms designed for food hygiene purposes
• Travelling uniforms
• Sport uniforms
• Weapons designed for self-protection

Using PPE and wearing it properly is vital to prevent injuries in the workplace. Choosing not to wear PPE can result in dangerous consequences, especially when lives are at risk. Safety is key and having a thorough understanding of these protective pieces can help prevent injuries and any harm.

Take a look at the wide range of PPE Workwear we supply here at North Central Office Orders.