• • • APPAREL • • • Seeing the risk
Eye protection is one of the most underused types of PPE in construction and electrical work, despite high risk from sparks, dust, UV glare and flying debris. The HSE records hundreds of eye injuries every year, many entirely preventable. The standard to look for here is EN 166, which sets the requirements for impact resistance, optical clarity and protection against UV and molten metal. Polycarbonate lenses are often best for site work as they are lightweight, shatter-resistant and naturally block 100 per cent of UVA and UVB rays. For electricians working in mixed light conditions, clear lenses work well indoors or in low light, while bronze or grey tints cut glare outdoors. Glasses should fit close to the face without fogging or slipping.
Protection from
non-conductive, lighter than steel and don’t retain heat or cold so are ideal for work near live systems or in changing temperatures. As an electrician, days can be long and tiring so comfort during long shifts is crucial. Safety boots that offer cushioning and shock absorption, such as padded insoles and midsoles, will naturally minimise foot strain. Arch support helps too. Moisture-wicking linings will keep your feet dry and comfortable under any conditions and some boots even come with antibacterial and temperature-regulating footbeds for optimal freshness and hygiene. Consider the construction materials of the footwear too; for example, Rugged Flex material is tough yet flexible, providing necessary give in key areas to allow your ankles and feet to move and bend.
When it comes to material, leather is often the preferred pick as it’s sturdy, flexible and breathable. It’s also highly resistant to abrasions, punctures and cuts and keeps feet from overheating. But synthetic materials like nylon and polyester are lighter, offering breathability without the weight. If you’re likely to be working outside or on unpredictable flooring, choose boots that have tough outsoles designed for superior traction and stability. An anti-slip grip is crucial for maintaining your balance on slick surfaces, securing your footing on ladders and preventing slips and falls. Choosing boots with deep tread patterns and specialised anti-slip properties will reduce the risk of accidents on uneven ground.
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the elements Weather-resistant gear is rarely thought of as PPE, but it should be. When you’re working outside, the weather can be just as hazardous as the work itself. A jacket that’s too heavy, restrictive or leaky makes concentration harder and accidents more likely. With so many different technologies available in workwear today, it’s not always easy to know which one to pick for the job, or exactly what it does. Carhartt’s range of outerwear and layering technologies offers a good example of how each feature serves a specific purpose, helping you choose the right gear for the task and conditions. Carhartt’s outerwear combines a range of technologies designed to handle the demands of the job site, but it’s worth knowing what each one does so you can choose carefully. For layering and base garments, Carhartt Force is designed to wick away sweat, fight odours and dry quickly so it helps regulate body temperature. Rain Defender uses a durable, water-repellent finish that makes moisture bead and roll off instead of soaking in, while Storm Defender provides a fully waterproof
A great example of outerwear that protects on
every level is the Active Jac. Its roomy hood fits comfortably over a hard hat, ribbed cuffs help block wind, and the loose cut allows for easy layering without bulk. When you’re up on a roof or scaffold, that combination of weather protection, breathability and unrestricted movement keeps you focused on the work rather than the conditions.
Workwear that fits Another important shift in PPE is how it fits, and who it fits. For years, women in the trades had to make do with men’s workwear, rolling sleeves, tightening belts and compromising comfort. But poor fit isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s unsafe. Loose clothing can snag on cables or tools, while tight gear restricts movement and causes fatigue. Properly designed women’s workwear considers real body proportions (hip-to-waist
ratio, torso length, shoulder width) so it fits properly and moves naturally. Lightweight, stretch fabrics such as TENCEL Lyocell are now widely used for their breathability and strength. Carhartt’s women’s range, for example, was field-tested with female tradespeople to refine fit and functionality. The wider trend across the industry is clear: safety isn’t one-size-fits-all. For years, PPE was treated as a tick-box exercise; something required, not respected. But attitudes are shifting. With greater awareness around long-term health, sustainability and comfort, tradespeople are demanding kit that does more than just pass a test. Manufacturers are responding with innovation: lighter fabrics that are still sturdy and hardwearing, flexible stretch materials, women’s ranges, lightweight, secure PPE. Comfort is now recognised as a genuine safety factor.
The HSE’s guidance on PPE at work
(Regulations 2022) reinforces this: PPE must be suitable for the risk, fit the wearer correctly and allow the person to do their job safely. Employers should involve workers in selecting it, maintain it properly and replace it when worn out. Because at the end of the day, PPE isn’t just protection and it’s not simply part of how you work. It’s also a big part of how long you can keep doing it.
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yet breathable barrier that keeps rain out without trapping heat. For flexibility, Rugged Flex builds stretch into key areas so you can move freely and Full Swing construction adds extra articulation at the shoulders and elbows, allowing clothing to move naturally with your body rather than against it.
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING • OCTOBER 2025 11
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