Health and safety have become important elements in every workplace, especially since the start of the pandemic. A good and secure workplace is one where all employees feel safe, despite any possible hazards they may be exposed to as part of their job. And while workplace safety comprises several aspects, from employee training programmes to secure infrastructural modifications, one of the most important aspects that often gets overlooked is the use of safety workwear. Failing to comply with health and safety standards, and not providing appropriate workwear to employees, can result in lawsuits that can cost a considerable sum to the organisation. So why is it so important and why should your company get it?
First, let’s understand what safety workwear is.
Any apparel or equipment that is specially designed and made to protect workers from hazards and injuries is called safety workwear. Examples include hard hats and other safety headgear, safety footwear, safety eyewear, aprons, lab coats, jackets, and other safety clothing. The need for employees to wear appropriate workwear is generally decided after a thorough risk assessment of the workplace and its nature of business.
Which Industries Require Safety Workwear?
Although very important, it is not a requirement for all industries. There are some areas that cannot function without appropriate safety workwear, while certain others that do not need it but can benefit greatly by enforcing the rule of wearing one. Workplaces that expose employees to dust, dangerous gases, loud noises, harmful chemicals, hot surfaces, falling debris, biological agents and other such physical hazards must provide workwear that protects the team from harm. Some of the industries where it’s an absolute-must are:
- Laboratories
- Construction
- Production & Industrial Facilities
- Warehouses
- Landscaping
- Catering
- House Keeping & Hospitality
- Security
Why Is Safety Workwear Important?
- Protection Against Injuries
Personal Protective Equipment, also called PPE or safety workwear, provides good protection against injuries in industries that require heavy lifting or working on hazardous sites. For example, hard hats play a vital role in protecting construction workers and other factory workers from serious head injuries, just how safety shoes and glasses protect against foot and eye injuries.
- Protection Against Harmful Substances
One of the most dangerous hazards that can lead to life-threatening conditions is the inhalation of toxic fumes, gases, and sawdust. PPE such as masks and other face coverings are particularly important in environments where employees are exposed to such dangerous substances on a daily basis.
- Better Performance
Employees that wear protective workwear tend to perform better than those who don’t. Since the risk to their health and wellbeing is minimal when they are wearing safety workwear, they are more likely to be able to concentrate better on the job, make fewer mistakes and be more productive in general.
- Special Recognition
Companies that invest in quality safety workwear for their employees tend to stand out from the competition and even stand to win recognition awards and accreditations for their commitment towards ensuring their employees have access to the best quality safety workwear.
How Can Dread Help?
Dread is a leading supplier of corporate, promotional, team clothing and merchandising solutions in Milton Keynes, that operates all across Europe. Regardless of the industry, we can design the best safety workwear for your organisation, such that it not only provides the best protection to your employees but also reflects your brand identity perfectly. To know more, get in touch with us.
