The Importance of Safety Gear

Each year, there are approximately 2.9 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported in the United States. With a few extra precautions and proper safety materials, this number could be reduced significantly. Learn about the importance of different types of safety gear.

The importance of proper clothing

Wearing the correct protective gear for a job is one of the best ways to ensure the health and happiness of workers. Here are some examples of some articles of clothing that workers should wear.

• Safety gear for the head should always be worn when working with potentially dangerous materials. Hard hats protect employees from falling objects, equipment malfunction, minimize the shock of a blow, and can be water- or fire-resistant. Wearing our hard hat with a visor carrier can also protect an employee’s eyes and face.
• Hearing loss is one of the most common work-related injuries in the United States. Each year, about 22 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels at work. Hearing loss can reduce a worker's quality of life and can be a life-long injury. Safety equipment as simple as earplugs help reduce the number of workers who suffer hearing loss while on the job.
• Wearing protective gear for other easily-injured parts of the body should be a priority, such as backs, knees, and skin. An estimated 13 million workers are exposed to chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin each year, yet something as simple as our full-body coverall can add an extra layer of protection.

The importance of proper lighting

Proper lighting is imperative in keeping a work environment safe. Read these reasons why lighting in a work environment can to contribute to safety.

• A powerful light can reduce workplace trips and falls, as well as help reduce unnecessary fatigue and eyestrain. If there is a glare or a work zone is not properly lit, there is a potential for an employee to walk into a dangerous situation. Our utility torch can reduce poor light-related injuries.
• Hands free lighting is great for jobs that require precision. By giving a worker the option to wear a head light, they can focus on their tasks without worrying about holding a light in place.

The importance of proper equipment

Providing workers with proper equipment could seriously reduce the number of work-related injuries in the United States each year.

• Cutting tools can cause cuts and puncture wounds, if not handled properly. Equipment with retractable blades add an extra layer of safety to potentially-dangerous tools.
• Workers should be aware of the sharpness of their tools as well. If a tool is broken, dull, or damaged, it should immediately be taken out of service to prevent any injuries. Replacement blades should be ordered to ensure each tool is safe to use.