Safety is our leading priority on every job site at Tucker Paving, and we are always looking for additional ways to improve our safety programs. We have been in the construction industry for over three decades, and we have witnessed safety outcomes improve by leaps and bounds over the years. Every year sees advancements in safety controls, and the most recent we have seen concern the fit of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as it relates to occupational fatigue and overall workforce wellness.
Improving PPE Fit
In the past, PPE was a “one size fits most” situation. Then, standards changed to reflect the need for PPE to “properly fit each employee.” This takes into account the difference in fit between a 6’2” man and a 5’4” woman.
Now, safety professionals are looking at PPE fit beyond “does it fit?” and looking at “is it comfortable?” PPE that is uncomfortable to wear is much less likely to be utilized. The most illustrative example is footwear. While steel-toe boots can “fit” a worker, they can also be uncomfortable. Standing in uncomfortable footwear for eight-plus hours a day can lead to foot problems outside of the workplace; it can even lead to damage to the worker’s feet that requires doctor’s visits, time off, and even surgery to repair.
The Role of Fatigue
The fit of PPE can lead to occupational fatigue that can pose more dangers than just the worker’s comfort. Research has shown a connection between physical exhaustion and decreased cognitive performance, slower reaction, and increased mistakes.
If a piece of PPE increases physical exhaustion—for instance, steel-toe boots that increase exhaustion due to their weight or shifting gait to avoid discomfort—then the PPE is also increasing the likelihood of mistakes and injuries. Safety professionals are looking for ways that PPE can offer protection from harm without increasing physical exhaustion.
Reducing Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) Injuries
Safety professionals are also looking into PPE that can reduce musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) injuries, such as back strains, rotator cuff injuries, and knee injuries. Some PPE can restrict movement or alter body mechanics.
In addition to discouraging workers to wear PPE, this can also lead to fatigue and musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) injuries. Going forward, products that were once seen as “comfort” items, like shoe insoles, may be considered PPE in that they lower the instance of MSD injuries in workers.
Tucker Paving has over three decades in the asphalt and concrete paving industry, and the safety and wellbeing of our employees always comes first. Contact us by calling (863) 299-2262, or use our contact form online, to inquire about your next project!