As the weather begins to warm up, it’s easy to forget about the extreme cold we battled all winter and tempting to arrive to work in our spring clothing. In order to keep safe, it’s vital to continue arriving at work dressed and ready to get the day started. 

What Not to Wear 

It’s crucial to be already dressed in your personal protective equipment (PPE) when arriving at your job site. PPE is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. These injuries and illnesses may result from contact with chemical, radiological, physical, electrical, mechanical, or other workplace hazards. PPE may include items such as gloves, safety glasses and shoes, earplugs or muffs, hard hats, respirators, or coveralls, vests and full body suits.  

Your PPE is your uniform, and just like any other profession, it is the expectation that construction workers come to work already in uniform. In order to comply with OSHA standards, avoid arriving at your job site in sneakers, sandals or any other shoes other than your construction boots. Likewise, arrive at work in full-length pants and long sleeves; exposed legs and arms are not permitted on jobsites in order to ensure the safety of each worker. 

Proper Use of PPE 

All PPE should be well maintained, reliable, and fit comfortably. If you have any concerns about the quality of your PPE, it is your responsibility to communicate with your employer. If the personal protective equipment does not fit properly, it can make the difference between being safely covered or dangerously exposed.