| Construction


rescuing an injured worker in low-light conditions, highlighting the need for workwear that improves visibility, ensures quick response, and reduces the impact of accidents.


Evolution of hydro PPE Hydro PPE has evolved with dam and powerhouse


construction, always adapting to match industrial demands. Workers had to wear bulky wool jumpers and unwieldy rubberised suits in the early days. However, advances in material science and design have resulted in the production of lighter, more breathable, and functional garments. Material advancements have been crucial in the


history of hydro workwear. Synthetic textiles like polyester and nylon have transformed the business by wicking away moisture and drying fast, giving workers a cool and pleasant alternative to the clammy misery of wool.


Another important component of current hydro workwear is increased functionality. Ergonomic elements like pre-bent knees, articulated sleeves, and elastic panels allow for free mobility and prevent fatigue. Integrated tool pockets and pouches keep important equipment close at hand, optimizing efficiency and reducing unnecessary bending. Hydro workwear has also been modified by safety innovations. Once restricted to rudimentary strips of reflective tape, high-visibility accents now come in brilliant neon hues and intelligently arranged patterns, maximizing worker visibility even in low-light settings.


Steps in selecting PPE Choosing the ideal hydro PPE is not a one-size-fits-all


undertaking. A variety of things must be examined to ensure workers are prepared for the specific issues they encounter.


Task assessment The first stage is to thoroughly grasp the tasks that employees will be undertaking. Are they scaling dam walls, handling heavy gear, or laboring in cramped quarters? Each activity necessitates unique considerations for fabric weight, breathability, and range of motion.


Environmental analysis The work environment is very important. Is it the burning sun or the chilling winds? Is there a lot of rain or a lot of spray? Understanding the weather conditions influences the fabrics, insulation levels, and waterproofing membranes used.


Hazard identification Potential project-specific hazards must be recognized and minimized with relevant PPE features. Working near electrical equipment, for example, demands flame-retardant clothes, whereas exposure to falling debris necessitates impact-resistant padding.


Ergonomics and comfort Workwear should never be restrictive or uncomfortable. Proper fit is essential for ensuring that clothing does not limit movement or create chafing areas. Pre-bent knees, elastic panels, and articulated sleeves add to the comfort and prevent fatigue during long days on the job.


Employee input and training Employees are key assets in the selection process. Their firsthand knowledge of the job’s demands and obstacles can inform garment selection and ensure that the chosen workwear meets their needs and preferences.


While the principles of workwear selection are universal throughout industries, hydro work poses specific challenges that necessitate special considerations. Dynamic environment – Hydro environments, as opposed to static workspaces, are always in movement. Fluctuating water levels, unexpected weather patterns, and shifting work environments demand versatile PPE that can effortlessly adjust to these fluctuations. Layering systems and modular clothes provide more adaptability to changing situations. Water Exposure – Constant exposure to water presents unique challenges. To avoid hypothermia and discomfort, workwear textiles must be quick- drying and water-resistant. To reduce the danger of slips and falls, footwear must provide excellent traction on wet surfaces. Extreme weather – Hydro workers are frequently exposed to both blistering sun and freezing weather. In hot conditions, breathable fabrics and efficient ventilation are important, whilst proper insulation and layering systems are required in cold environments.


Prioritizing safety Hydropower is an undeniably vital industry that


provides clean, renewable electricity to millions of people. However, it is an innately hazardous environment where specialised PPE is more than simply an accessory; it’s a lifeline, a tribute to a company’s unrelenting dedication to worker safety.


References www.allseasonsuniforms.


www.waterpowermagazine.com | February 2024 | 17


Above: Workers climbing a dam wall. Specialised PPE is a lifeline for workers


Below: A dam engineer carries out routine checks


Below: High visibility workwear is important at hydro sites


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