When traditional safety measures aren’t enough, PPE is your last line of defense against serious illnesses and injuries should something go wrong. When you are working on an active construction site, be aware of your surroundings and always use appropriate PPE. Here are the ways you can protect yourself: Eye and Face Protection: Safety glasses or face shields are worn any time work operations can cause foreign objects to get in your eyes including when welding, cutting, grinding, nailing, working with concrete and/or harmful chemicals, and when exposed to flying particles. Also, wear eye protection when exposed to electrical hazards, including when working on energized electrical systems. Foot Protection: Workers should wear work shoes or boots with slip-resistant and puncture-resistant soles. Safety-toed footwear is needed to prevent crushed toes when working around heavy equipment or falling objects. Hand Protection: Work gloves should fit snugly. Workers should wear the right gloves for the job they are doing. For example, wear heavy-duty rubber gloves for concrete work; welding gloves for welding; and insulated gloves and sleeves when exposed to electrical hazards
Head Protection: Wear hard hats where there is the potential for objects to fall from above, bumps to the head from fixed objects, or accidental head contact with electrical hazards. Hard hats should be in good condition; routinely inspected for dents, cracks, or deterioration; and replaced after a heavy blow or electrical shot. Hearing Protection: Use ear plugs and/or earmuffs in highnoise work areas such as where chainsaws or heavy equipment are used. Clean and replace earplugs regularly. See Something? Say Something! If you see a potential hazard or anything else on a job site that concerns you, don’t be shy—report it immediately to your shop steward, supervisor or foreman. We need to work together to keep all workers safe.
