Properly Fitting Construction Safety Equipment: A Lifesaving Priority
10/17/2023
In the construction industry, workers are surrounded by an environment filled with potential hazards, from falling debris to electrical equipment, and from heavy machinery to harmful airborne particles. To protect themselves, workers rely heavily on safety equipment. But it’s not just about having the right equipment—it’s also about ensuring it fits correctly. Properly fitting safety equipment is a crucial element of workplace safety, and understanding its importance can be a matter of life and death. Let’s dive deep into the importance of properly fitting construction safety equipment and how to achieve it.
Why Proper Fit Matters
Maximum Protection
Safety gear is designed with specific protective features. Equipment that doesn’t fit can’t protect as intended. Some examples might include:
- Gloves that are too big can impede grip,
- Too-tight safety boots can lead to foot ailments.
- A helmet that’s too large can easily fall off, leaving the worker exposed to falling objects.
- A respirator that doesn’t seal properly can allow harmful particles to be inhaled.
Comfort & Efficiency
Workers are more likely to wear safety equipment consistently if it’s comfortable, with heavy temptation to remove it if it’s ill-fitting or causing discomfort. A good fit means less distraction and adjustment throughout the day, allowing workers to focus on their tasks.
Compliance & Legal Requirements
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other safety organizations often have guidelines that dictate not only what safety equipment should be worn, but also how it should fit. Non-compliance can lead to penalties for companies and increased risk for workers. OSHA provides resources to help guide contractors on best practices for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which is a minimum guideline for wearable safety equipment.
Essential Safety Equipment and Fitting Tips
Helmets/Hard Hats:
Selection: Hard hats should be chosen based on the type of work. For instance, a hard hat used for electrical work should have non-conductive properties.
Fit: The hard hat should sit comfortably on the head, without rocking side to side. The inner suspension system should be adjusted so that the hard hat sits low on the brow.
Care: Most Hard hats have a lifespan. The manufacture date stamp can be found on the inner lip of the brim. They should be inspected regularly for cracks or damage, and replaced after a significant impact, even if no damage is visible.
Safety Glasses & Goggles:
Selection: Choose the proper item based on the type of hazard. Tinted lenses are for outdoor work, while clear lenses are for indoor or low-light conditions. Anti-fog properties can be beneficial, especially in situations where workers are required to wear a mask.
Fit: Glasses should sit snugly against the face without pinching. Goggles should form a complete seal around the eyes. Look for glasses with rubber temples and nose pieces, which prevent slipping due to sweat.
Care: Clean regularly with a soft cloth. Store in a protective case to avoid scratches. If glasses are damaged or significantly scratched, they should be replaced.
Prescription Options: Safety glasses are available with prescription modifications. Perlo offers an incentive program for prescription safety glasses for its employees.
Safety Glasses must have a minimum Safety Rating of Z87+.
Hearing Protection:
Selection: Earplugs or earmuffs should be chosen based on noise levels and personal comfort. Some jobs might require electronic earmuffs that allow communication between team members.
Fit: Earplugs should seal the ear canal without causing discomfort. Earmuffs should encompass the entire ear.
Care: Clean earplugs and replace them regularly. Earmuffs’ cushioning can wear out, affecting the seal, so inspect and replace as needed.
The permissible exposure limit for Sound level dBA’s can be found in Table D-2 of OSHA 1926.52(d)(1)
Respirators:
Selection: The type of respirator depends on the airborne hazard. For dust, a simple mask might suffice. For chemicals or other toxins, a full-face respirator might be necessary.
Fit: A proper seal is crucial. Respirators should be fit-tested annually or whenever there’s a significant change in the wearer’s facial structure. Facial hair can disrupt the seal, especially for tight-fitting respirators. It’s essential to either opt for full face respirators or ensure workers are clean-shaven.
Care: Clean after each use. Filters should be replaced as recommended or if breathing becomes difficult.
Harnesses:
Selection: Choose based on the type of work—fall arrest, positioning, or retrieval.
Fit: The harness should be snug but allow full range of motion. All straps should lie flat, and there shouldn’t be any twisted webbing.
Care: Inspect before each use. Look for frayed straps, damaged buckles, or other signs of wear.
Foot Protection:
Selection: Safety shoes should cater to specific risks. Steel-toed boots, for instance, are essential where crushing hazards exist.
Fit: There should be wiggle room for toes, but heels should sit snugly to prevent blisters.
High-visibility Clothing:
Fit: These should be snug but not restrictive. Too loose, and they might get caught in machinery.
Material Considerations: For warmer climates, opt for breathable fabrics to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Ensuring Proper Fit: Training & Regular Checks
Initial Training
Every worker should receive thorough training on how to wear, adjust, and care for their safety equipment. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; personalized guidance is crucial.
Regular Inspections
Supervisors and workers should conduct periodic checks to ensure that safety equipment is being worn correctly. In addition, people’s sizes and shapes can change. Regular fits provide consistent protection for workers.
Feedback System
Workers should feel comfortable reporting issues related to equipment fit, damage, or discomfort. If a piece of equipment doesn’t feel right, it’s probably not working properly, either.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Ensure that equipment is tailored as needed to maximize efficiency and safety.
Final Thoughts
In construction, every layer of protection counts. By ensuring that safety equipment is selected and fitted properly, workers can be confident in their protection, employers can be assured of their compliance, and projects can proceed with minimal risk. Properly fitting equipment is more than just a box to check off—it’s a commitment to safeguarding lives on the job site.
As we’ve delved into, the right fit enhances protection, ensures comfort, prevents additional hazards, and meets regulatory standards. By understanding these nuances and investing in the right fit, construction sites can remain productive, efficient, and above all, safe.