Surprising environments that require protective workwear
Take a look at some of the lesser-known and possibly surprising environments that require protective workwear to get the job done safely.
When most people think of personal protective equipment or workwear, they often associate it with heavy-duty industries such as construction and infrastructure employees. Typical examples of personal protective workwear include high visibility garments, head protection and flame retardant clothing, which are used in a variety of sectors. There is a host of other areas that may not be quite as obvious, but yet also require employee’s to have sufficient protection to do their job.
Window Cleaner
Most regular window cleaners may not be entirely kitted out with the latest protective workwear. However, in cases where there is a substantial project to undertake such as cleaning windows on a large-scale building, protective workwear complete with harnesses have to be worn. These full body suits are anchored for safety and ensuring the employee has full protection in regards to hands, feet and headwear is vital for all weather conditions.
Event Steward
Event stewards seem to have the perfect job as who wouldn’t want to listen to great bands time and time again as a career. Aside from their high visibility clothing and essential walkie-talkie for communication, they have something else that you may not have noticed that keeps them protected, and that is earplugs. Standing around controlling the crowd and listening to bands might seem fantastic, but the noise level that is emitted from the speakers can damage ears. As event stewards have to stand very close to music equipment, ear protection through active noise cancellation or passive noise cancellation is essential.
Baggage Handlers
These employees have a vital job to do, and although it may seem that it is just a case of placing luggage onto a conveyor belt, there is a lot more going on behind the scenes, which can, in turn, be dangerous to workers. Heavy suitcases are not the only things that can cause issues to health; slippery surfaces, conveyor belts and time pressures can create hazardous conditions. Wearing sturdy boots with toe protection, plus tough gloves and kneepads are essential to protect workers from accidents. Ear defenders are also important, as plane engines are often incredibly loud.
Industrial Electrician
Electricians that work in industrial or utility sectors are often involved with projects that can present hazards with high voltage electricity and exposure to flames. In these jobs, flame and heat resistant clothing is essential, as workers may come in contact with welders and cutting tools that create sparks and excessive heat. As there are a variety of environments that industrial electricians work in, they could also be subjected to extreme heights and bad weather, so having necessary safety equipment and clothing can protect them on the job.
Many occupations require personal protective workwear, so providing your employees with the necessary clothing for the job ensures they have a safe and happy working environment.
At phs Besafe, we supply protective workwear for a range of working environments, as well as offer industrial laundry and secure uniform destruction services for your garments. Contact us for more information.