Construction workers are exposed to various risks on a daily basis, particularly related to the handling of dangerous tools, heavy materials, toxic substances or even falls. To limit these dangers and guarantee their safety, certain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential. Here is an overview of the main protective equipment recommended for construction workers.
Protective helmet
The helmet is one of the most basic and essential protective equipment for construction workers, as it protects against falling objects and impacts to the head. In construction environments, where there are frequent risks of falling materials, it is essential to wear a quality helmet that complies with EN 397 standards. Some modern models even have integrated visors for additional eye protection.
Protective glasses
In construction, craftsmen are often exposed to dust, debris and chemical splashes. Safety glasses are designed to protect the eyes from these hazardous elements. To do this, they must comply with EN 166 standards and be adapted to the specific needs of craftsmen. For example, panoramic glasses offer extended protection and are particularly suitable for dusty or chemical environments.
Safety shoes
Safety shoes protect the feet from falling heavy objects and from the risk of punctures from nails or other sharp debris on the ground. They are equipped with anti-perforation soles and steel or composite toe caps to protect the toes. Safety shoes must meet the EN ISO 20345 standards, and their choice depends on the work environment: non-slip for wet floors, insulating for electrical areas, etc.
Hearing protection
In noisy environments, such as construction sites where tools such as drills or circular saws are used, hearing protection is essential. In this regard, earplugs or earmuffs reduce exposure to loud noises, which helps prevent the risk of long-term hearing loss. However, the choice of protection level depends on the noise level and the duration of exposure.
Safety gloves
Safety gloves are essential to protect hands from cuts, burns and crushing hazards. There are different types of gloves, depending on the tasks and materials being handled. For example, cut-resistant gloves are recommended for handling sharp tools, while puncture-resistant gloves are more suitable for heavy-duty construction work. It is worth noting that gloves should be selected according to the EN 388 standard to ensure their effectiveness.
Respiratory masks
On construction sites, craftsmen are sometimes exposed to dust, toxic fumes, or even chemical solvents. A respiratory mask is therefore essential to protect the respiratory tract. FFP2 or FFP3 type masks effectively filter fine particles and pathogens, while cartridge masks are suitable for environments with chemicals. The choice of mask therefore depends on the type of work and the nature of the materials used.
In short, wearing suitable PPE is essential for construction workers. Employers are responsible for ensuring that PPE complies and for training their staff in its use. Prevention is the key to limiting workplace accidents, and PPE is therefore of a highly strategic nature.