PPE Resolutions: Start your year off right

Setting foot into 2017 gives us the opportunity to rethink how we interact with objects and people around us. While we do review our old habits, and create new ones, we tend to forget to renew our commitment to keeping ourselves healthy and safe at work! One way to do so is to ensure we have adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at hand.

Last week, Health and Safety at Work reports, an asbestos removal supervisor pleaded guilty to breaching Section 7 of the Health and Safety at Work Act:

General duties of employees at work.

It shall be the duty of every employee while at work—

(a)to take reasonable care for the health and safety of himself and of other persons who may be affected by his acts or omissions at work; and

(b)as regards any duty or requirement imposed on his employer or any other person by or under any of the relevant statutory provisions, to co-operate with him so far as is necessary to enable that duty or requirement to be performed or complied with.

source: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1974/37/section/7

The person in question allowed several workers to enter a sealed enclosure without any PPE. Asbestos exposure kills around 5000 workers each year, as the fibres can cause serious diseases such as Mesothelioma, Asbestosis, and Lung Cancer.

Make sure you have the correct protective equipment while handling materials that are strictly regulated by the HSE. Doing so not only protects your long-term well-being but also sets a great example for colleagues to follow. Read our in-depth article explaining the hazards and regulations surrounding PPE.

Our protective gear recommendations

Here is a list of the PPE we highly recommend, make sure to involve employees who will be wearing the equipment in your buying decision to ensure you are getting the correct product for their needs.

Clear Lens Safety Glasses Contour design with adjustable frame for comfortable and versatile fit Lightweight, does not add unnecessary strain to the face area Conforms to EN166.1.F, the European Technical Performance Standard Optical Class 1, the highest optical class, F for low-energy impact resistance (45m/sec) Sold in packs of 10

Peltor Optime 2 Ear Defenders For demanding noise hazard environments such as construction machinery, airports and agricultural work Unique combination of liquid and foam inside sealing rings, with sealing rings Well fitted comfort for long term use Conforms to SNR 31, Single Number Rating European Standard

EVO3 Hard Hat Strong HDPE shell for superior protection Harness system for 3D adjustment Integral visor which means eye protection cannot be lost Meets EN397 & EN50365 Electrical Insulation standard Available in Blue, Green, Orange, Red, White and Yellow Sold in packs of 10

Thermal Helmet Warmer Full head and face comfort for helmets Easily attached to helmet harness for warmth Available for MK7, EVOLite, EVO2, EVO3, EVO8 Sold in packs of 10

Standard Grip Gloves Seamless cotton, polyester gloves with flexible latex coat For impressive grip and overall comfort Available in 4 sizes Sold in packs of 12

FFP20V Disposable Respirator Disposable Offers odour reduction Valve for protection against solid and liquid aerosol variants Sold in packs of 10

Welted Boot Safety boots with eyelet fastening Rubber sole for additional grip Black leather upper Available in 7 sizes

Breathable coverall Elasticised hood, waist, ankles and cuffs for comfort Anti static materials Zip fastening for quick fit Manufactured from non-woven polypropylene Available in Medium, Large, X Large and XX Large

PPE Storage Cupboards

• Safe and separate storage of PPE for the workplace
• Fitted with ‘no-snag’ handles and 2-point locking
• Steel construction with strengthened doors so the cupboards are more durable
• Powder coated finish with Germ Guard Active Technology
• Fire Guard Tested & Certified to EN 13501-1
• UK Manufactured

We hope that this year, we can all make safety and health a priority in the workplace! If you have large quantity requirements or simply want to chat about our products, you can do so through Live Chat or give us a call! Visit our website Safety Direct2U for our complete range of products.