The most difficult tasks, whether in the oil and gas or electrical utility industries, frequently require the most rigid Protective clothing. Nevertheless, as the durability of protective garments increases, so does the discomfort, which can hinder productivity and create challenges in adhering to compliance standards. The main functions of protective clothing are protection, functionality, and identification. 

At Garment Printing, we understand the critical balance between protection, functionality, and comfort. Our custom garment printing facilities are revolutionising the industry by offering personalised protective clothing solutions that keep your workers safe and enhance their performance and morale.

It’s time to ensure Safety without compromising on comfort. So upgrade your team’s protective gear with Garment Printing today and experience the perfect blend of durability and wearability.

According to numerous surveys conducted in the industry of safety garment fabrics, Almost 80% of accidents, ranging from a wounded finger to a fatality caused by an electric arc, have been attributed to noncompliance with using Personal Protective Equipment. Despite the requirement for PPE in hazardous environments, people continue to risk bodily injury in this area.

What are protective garments?

Protective clothing is a form of personal protective equipment (PPE) designed, treated, or manufactured to minimise workers’ health and safety risks.

The following are examples of protective clothing:

• Safety footwear
• Gloves
• Hard hats
• Apparel with high visibility
• Protective aprons

Suggested Read: Protective Gloves – Everything you Need to Know About!

Why is PPE in mining so necessary? Here are the top reasons:

• It can help prevent injuries caused by falls, slips, and trips. Mining PPE can help protect miners from potential harm, such as those caused by falls, slips, and trips.
• Miners can reduce their exposure to hazardous dust and chemicals by donning the appropriate PPE for mining.
• Numerous PPE items, such as hard hats and safety eyewear, can enhance the visibility of a miner while working.
• Some mining PPE, such as respirators and dust masks, can provide miners with respiratory protection against hazardous airborne particles.
• It can be a barrier between the skin and potentially dangerous substances. Gloves and protective clothing act as a barrier between the skin and potentially hazardous substances.

PPE products in the Australian mining industry

Australia’s mining industry has developed and adopted many new technology, procedures, and personal protective equipment over the past several decades. This has contributed to a decrease in workplace accidents resulting in injury.

There is a risk of injury at all levels of operation and logistics in the mining industry, which remains high-risk work. Consequently, PPE plays a crucial role in maintaining the finest safety practices in the industry.

In Australia, employers are required to implement measures to reduce the risk of workplace injury, with PPE serving as the last line of defence for employees. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) utilised in the workplace should adhere to stringent manufacturing standards and be maintained (or replaced) to ensure its continued functionality.

Safety Goggles

Safety goggles are recommended in mining applications due to the frequent exposure to mining compounds and dust, silica, asbestos, or projectiles. By avoiding contact with the eyes and skin, employees can reduce the likelihood that hazardous substances will enter the bloodstream or cause irreparable vision damage.

Read more: Safety Glasses & Protective Eyewear – All About Eyes

Safety Vest (Reflector Vest)

Hi-vis vests feature an illuminator, a material that illuminates when subjected to light. This reflective vest’s luminescent material will make you more visible, particularly in low-light environments or on the job.

Safety footwear

Safety shoes are intended to prevent fatal catastrophes resulting in foot injuries, such as being struck by sharp or heavy objects, hot objects, chemical liquids, etc. Whether the mine is dry or damp, safety shoes for miners are made of leather or rubber. To meet the minimum protective requirements, the boot must have an entire puncture-resistant sole with a composite outer layer to prevent slipping, a steel toe cap, and a metatarsal shield.

Ear Plugs

Hearing Protection Mining is a loud occupation. Exposure to noise levels exceeding the Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL) can result in both short- and long-term health hazards. Hearing protection such as earplugs, earmuffs, and hearing bands can assist in reducing noise exposure to safe levels.

Gel Gloves

Hand injuries account for many permanent occupational injuries in the mining industry. Therefore, hand protection is crucial. Consequently, it may be surprising that vibration injury is the industry’s leading cause of long-term hand and arm harm. Long-term vibration exposure from portable tools and equipment can cause circulatory problems, nerve damage, tendon, muscle, and bone damage, and conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Recommended read: Protective Gloves Everything you Need to Know About It! 

Sun Protection

Workers in the mining industry are frequently susceptible to sun exposure and UV damage if no precautions are taken to limit their exposure. The most common cause of unintended UV exposure is neglecting to apply additional sun protection on top of work uniforms.

Safety Mask/Respirator Mask (Air Filter)

Masks are designed to filter inhaled air when operating in environments with poor air quality. (e.g. dusty, toxic, and so on). Various masks are available, from dust masks to masks designed to protect against volatile substances. 

The appropriate mask must be worn until the mine ventilation system has eliminated or reduced the contaminant to an acceptable level.

Improving Workplace Safety Is Good for Business

Safety best practices must be deeply rooted in a company’s culture and supported by all management levels, especially in high-risk industries like mining. Adherence to safety procedures, proper equipment, and training is essential for employee well-being and preserving valuable assets. In addition, top mining organisations recognise that a secure working environment boosts productivity, profitability, worker morale, and retention. Thus, investing in comprehensive safety education and safe work practices is a wise business decision with long-term benefits.

Here are a few nore suggested reads on our blog related to this article,

• What is the Importance of PPE for Food Industry Roles?
• Selection of Hard Hats For Safety At Work | Workwear & Safety
• A Complete Buyer’s Guide for Hi Vis Jacket

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