PPE For Keeping Construction Workers Safe on the Job

Understanding how PPE works can lead to safer workspaces.

According to the Commonly Used Statistics web page on the OSHA web site relating to the highest 10 most steadily cited requirements, the construction trade led the way in which in 5 of the highest 10, together with (1) fall safety, (3) ladders, (5) scaffolding, (6) fall safety coaching, and (8) eye and face safety. In constructing building (NAICS 236) alone, there have been 2,742 citations given and 1,191 inspections, for a complete penalty price of $9,586,100.

Don’t fear. The building trade isn’t the lone wolf for OSHA violations. General industries of all sorts are responsible of the identical infractions for employee security. So, a number of what we’re going to debate on this article applies to a variety of industries, not simply building. 

We’re going to cowl two of the highest security issues: head and eye safety, and fall safety and coaching. Let’s begin with head and eye safety. 

Head Protection Basics and Beyond 

Jobsite head safety is available in two flavors: laborious hats and security helmets. The most seen distinction between the 2 is the brim or lack thereof. Hard hats have brims, both partial or full perimeter, whereas security helmets are pretty brimless and are “cut out” across the ears. Safety helmet design is just like climbing helmets. Safety helmets are usually offered with a four-point anchored chin strap. With laborious hats, a chin strap is extra probably an optionally available accent. 

Both laborious hats and security helmets have a spot in building. Because of their snugger design, helmets are nice for confined house areas or any job the place shut encounters with a brim could be problematic. The brim on a tough hat, nonetheless, serves a number of functions. Not solely does it assist shade the wearer’s eyes when working outdoors, but it surely additionally protects the employee’s face from falling particles. A full brim laborious hat deflects particles from all sides. 


This article initially appeared within the October 1, 2022 challenge of Occupational Health & Safety.

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