Construction managers must establish personal protective equipment (PPE) audit periods to ensure a safe work environment. Detailed inspection protocols and standards make it easier to follow best safety practices. Read on to learn four signs you need to replace construction PPE.
Workers should inspect PPE before use and remove defective or damaged equipment. Damage can include rips, holes, tears, and material degradation.
Employers must train staff to recognize the signs of damage for specific types of PPE, such as hard hats, safety glasses, safety shirts, and harnesses. Employers must replace damaged equipment to help employees avoid harm caused by defective or inadequate PPE.
Discoloration is another sign it’s time to replace construction PPE. Discoloration can indicate excessive use or chemical exposure.
Color is a key component of safety apparel. High-visibility vests, hoodies, and shirts use fluorescent fabric to make the wearer stand out from their environment. When the color fades or becomes obstructed by irremovable stains, the hi-vis article no longer works and requires replacement.
Before PPE expires, ensure you have replacement equipment ready for use. Some PPE items have a recommended replacement timeframe rather than a strict expiration date. For example, regular use of high-visibility clothes means the items will typically last about six months. When it’s time to replace hi-vis apparel, consider ordering custom safety apparel to boost your company’s brand awareness and improve worker compliance.
Recommended replacement times can change depending on the work environment. Hard hats can last five years, but employers must typically replace hard hats exposed to extreme temperatures or intense sunlight every two years.
If you find faulty components in PPE, it’s time to take those items out of circulation. That’s why it’s critical to have a thorough equipment inspection process.
Defective components can lead to serious injuries, such as amputations, blindness, back injuries, head injuries, and lacerations. Replacement PPE must fit properly and be free from defects.
Visible damage, discoloration, replacement dates determined by the manufacturer, and faulty parts can all help indicate when it’s time to replace construction PPE. When workers and employers comply with PPE safety standards, the risk of workplace injury decreases substantially. Offer refresher training to ensure everyone stays up to date on best practices regarding PPE inspections.
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