Construction sites can be very dangerous. That’s why construction workers have to wear the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to keep them safe against any unforeseen accidents. Construction sites are filled with heavy machinery, heavy building materials, power tools, and other temporary structures.

Each construction site has specific rules and regulations either set by the company itself or by the government’s health and safety department. These rules should be enforced and followed by everyone on the site to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.

Working around all of these objects should only be done by workers who have been properly trained and who are constantly implementing different safety and security regulations. Read this information by Princeton University on safety precautions to take at a construction site.

Ranging from shoes to hard hats, construction workers aren’t allowed to operate heavy machinery or power tools without this gear. If you are wondering what kind of equipment construction workers should wear, read along for all the inside information.

HARD HATS

It’s extremely important to protect your head against any building materials that might fall from the sky. No one is allowed to enter a building or construction site without protecting their head with a hard hat. Hard hats are usually made from a very tough and durable plastic that can withstand hard hits.

Interestingly enough, hard hats come in many different colors; yellow, red, white, blue, brown, and orange. The color of the worker’s hard hat will indicate the different positions they take on while working. The color code is as follows:

Yellow – indicates the ground workers or moving operators
Red – indicates a Fire Marshall
White – indicates that of a site manager, operative, or vehicle Marshall
Blue – indicates that of a visitor or someone less experienced
Brown – indicates someone working with high heat application like welding
Orange – indicates the slingers or signalers

EYE PROTECTION

Sand, dust, cement, and fire sparks can severely and permanently damage the construction worker’s eyes. It’s important to wear the right graded safety goggles. Either these eye protectors cover the entire eye area like that of a scuba diving mask, or they are worn as regular sunglasses. Depending on what job you are performing, you should get the right kind.

WORK SHOES

Probably one of the most important aspects of PPE is proper construction work shoes that are comfortable as well as sturdy. In the past, to provide extra strong protection, work shoes were heavy, warm, and uncomfortable. Recently, manufacturers have started to use high end technology to create lightweight yet durable working boots.

There are many different types of work shoes available and depending on what construction you are working at, or what job you are performing, there is a type for every industry.

Ranging from steel-toe boots to waterproof boots, construction workers have a choice between a variety of different types. If you are specifically working in construction, you should consider purchasing a rubber outsole boot.

Soles are usually made from rubber not only for durability but also to create a kind of insulation between the worker and the floor. Especially when working in areas where there is live electricity, it’s important to create an extra barrier between your feet and the floor.

The soles should also feature a slip-resistant design to ensure your feet stay stable on the ground whenever there’s an oil spill or when working on slippery surfaces.

For those workers working in construction sites with heavy materials like steel rods, slabs, and temporary constructions, it’s advised to purchase a steel toe work boot. The steel toe boot is perfect for heavy duty kind of jobs and provides the ultimate protection. They are perfect for maintenance men, plumbers, electricians, and mechanics.

Other factors to consider are whether the boots are waterproof? Waterproof boots will keep your feet dry and allow for ultimate comfort even when working in wet weather conditions. When your feet get wet, you can be prone to getting painful blisters. Look for a boot that has a waterproof exterior and that doesn’t allow for any water leakage. It’s advised that you purchase a pair that covers the ankle for the ultimate coverage.

Some shoe designs even feature a pressure relief system that helps prevent foot fatigue. When you are on your feet the whole day, you are going to have to invest in a decent pair that provides flexibility, support, and comfort.

GLOVES

To protect workers against cuts, burns, and scratches from different materials they have to work with, workers should wear protective gloves. These gloves are usually designed with added grip to help workers lay bricks, weld warm steel plates together, work with iron structures, pick up and move broken building materials, and mix cement.

Protective gloves are also available in a variety of different types ranging from riggers, thermals, heat resistance, and anti-vibration.

PANTS

Many people working within construction usually wear tough jeans or denim. This is because they are comfortable, stretchy, and very tough. Pants should always allow the person to move around freely without being constricted. Especially when they have to quickly move out of harm’s way. Protective pants can be made from ripstop fabric, waterproof material, and anti-stain or anti-wrinkle material.

Learn more about different safety equipment needed and personal protective gear that workers should wear here:

https://www.osha.gov/Publications/construction_ppe.html.

OTHER

In many cases, workers should also wear safety vests that have reflective panels sewn into the back and front. This is to allow them to be seen in the dark.
For those working in a construction site where there is a lot of dust or allergens present, it is recommended to wear a protective industry-standard face mask. Knee pads are also worn by those who have to bend down and work on their knees a lot.
As long as you invest in a decent pair of work shoes and other PPE from high-quality manufacturers, you’ll be able to go about your daily construction duties without experiencing foot fatigue.