People face risks every day at work, but it’s possible to take steps to reduce the chance of being injured accidentally. Personal protective equipment protects workers from hazards such as trips, burns, electrocution, and falls.
The biggest risk posed to an electrician is that they might come into contact with electricity. In these cases, electrical PPE clothing would be a great line of defence. Items such as electrical safety gloves, eye protection, and bump caps are all necessary to ensure that electricians are protected at work.
A full risk assessment must be undertaken before it is decided which PPE should be worn by the electrician, but these are some of the most important categories of electrical PPE to make sure you’re considering.
Electrical safety gloves
Puncture wounds can be a common injury to electricians, particularly when working inducting with sharp edges, so hand protection is vital. Cut-resistant gloves which the electrician can still feel and grip through can be a little more expensive than everyday work gloves but they are worth the investment if they are worn and protect the electrician. These cut-resistant gloves are vital to prevent cuts from sharp materials, whilst ensuring that electricians can maintain their dexterity.
Safety trainers
Safety trainers are a good alternative to steel-capped boots. Many electricians prefer them, as they are lightweight – ideal for climbing ladders and steps, reducing the risk of falls from height. Their flexibility means that they’re also ideal for crouching down towards the floor.
Bump caps
Workers that work on internal sites may want to wear bump caps, especially when working in low-height areas such as closets and under-the-stairs cupboards. Bumps to the head can happen easily, and although in most cases they’re not serious, in some cases, they could cause a concussion or physical wound.
Bump caps will provide a protective shield, helping to prevent injury. These caps are hard but lightweight, and fully adjustable so that they fit comfortably on the wearer’s head. This bump cap will match work uniforms well, whilst remaining modern and stylish.
Eye protection
It’s incredibly important to protect the eyes – whether that’s from dust or flying debris. Electricians can look forward to wearing clear protective glasses. Dust and debris in the eyes can not only be uncomfortable, it can also damage vision. Over glasses or overspecs is an alternative for those with bad eyesight. These safety goggles can be worn over existing prescription glasses – so there really is no excuse.
Dust masks
Dust masks provide protection against non-toxic dust, pollen and mould. These are ideal for use by electricians, who may often be drilling through walls to complete their work.
Many maintenance operatives are exposed to asbestos despite the legal requirement for building owners to identify and log the whereabouts of asbestos. By wearing a filtering dust mask, electricians could be saved from breathing in fibres if unknown asbestos is drilled. A mask with replaceable filters offers better protection than a disposable mask and, once face fitted, could save a life.
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