THE IMPORTANCE OF PPE

PPE is the last line of defence between you and an injury. It doesn’t eliminate the hazard, but when something goes wrong it is often the only thing preventing a serious outcome. As we move through winter, cold hands, extra layers, and wet conditions can all affect the way we wear and interact with our PPE, which makes it even more important that we wear it correctly and check it regularly.

Wearing PPE incorrectly, or choosing not to wear it, removes that final layer of protection entirely. There is no acceptable reason to be in a work zone without the required PPE in place.

FOR LABOURERS:

+ Always wear your full PPE within the work zone: hard hat, high-vis, safety footwear, gloves, and eye protection when required.

+ Wear clean high-vis over wet weather gear, not underneath it. Obscured high-vis doesn't meet the standard.

+ Inspect your hard hat and harness each shift for damage. If wearing a thermal liner or beanie underneath this winter, make sure the hat still sits flush.

+ Wear task-appropriate gloves & keep them on. Cold reduces dexterity & removing gloves to rush a task increases risk. If gloves make the task unsafe, stop & speak to your supervisor.

FOR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS:

+ High-vis clothing is your primary means of being seen by approaching traffic. It must be worn correctly, clean, and never covered by anything that reduces visibility.

+ Additional layers worn for warmth must not interfere with PPE fit or visibility. Waterproof outer layers must be high-vis rated.

+ Check your PPE at the start of every shift. Don't assume it's in good condition without looking.

IMPORTANCE OF HARD HATS:

Hard hat compliance has come up across the business recently, and for good reason. Head injuries are among the most serious outcomes in our work environment. A hard hat worn correctly costs nothing.

+ Hard hats must be worn in all designated PPE zones. No exceptions.

+ Check the manufacture date stamp inside your hat. Most hard hats have a service life of 2–5 years from manufacture.

+ Tilting or wearing a hard hat backwards is not acceptable. The brim is designed to deflect falling objects away from your face and neck.

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