Construction workers have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Every day, they put their lives at risk to build our homes, offices, and infrastructure. But while this profession has many risks, construction workers can take simple precautions using high quality construction PPE to protect themselves from the most common injuries.

Most Common Construction Injuries

Construction workers are susceptible to injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries like broken bones and concussions. The most common construction injuries include:

● slips, trips, and falls
● being struck by an object
● being caught in/between objects
● electrocutions
● exposure to harmful substances
● eye injuries
● hearing injury and loss
● burns

The good news is that you can prevent most of these injuries by following OSHA standards and providing workers with the proper construction PPE.

What is Construction PPE and What’s Required at Construction Sites?

PPE, or personal protective equipment, is any specialized gear or clothing that protects construction workers from injuries. Construction workers are required by law to wear PPE when working in areas with a risk of injury.

OSHA Standards for Construction PPE

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific standards for construction PPE. OSHA requires construction workers to wear PPE when working in areas with a risk of injuries, such as being struck by an object or exposed to harmful substances.

State Standards for Construction PPE

State standards for construction PPE vary, but most states have adopted the OSHA standards. Construction workers should check with their state’s occupational safety and health agency to determine what PPE is required by law.

10 Pieces of Construction PPE Every Worker Needs

1. Safety Glasses

Construction can be messy, making workers susceptible to eye injuries from flying debris, dust, and other harmful substances. Therefore, safety glasses or goggles should be worn when working on a construction site.

We recommend a pair of Fury Goggles Anti-Fog Lens to protect workers from dust and small particulates. This sleek, frameless design meets ANSI Z87 standards, plus they’re certified to the requirements of the CSA Z94.3 standard.

See our complete collection of eye protection products here.

2. Hearing Protection

Construction workers are exposed to loud noise from construction equipment, which can lead to hearing loss. Therefore, hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, should be worn when working around loud noise.

For TWA noise exposures up to 98 dBA, we recommend H9A 3M Ear Muffs, which include earcup pivot points tilt for comfort that adjusts to individual wearers.
See our entire collection of hearing protection products here.

3. Hard Hats

Construction workers should always wear a hard hat when working on a construction site. They are required by law in many states when working on a construction site. Hard hats protect construction workers from head injuries, which can be caused by falling objects or being struck by an object.

We suggest the V-Gard White Hard Hat with Ratchet Suspension to protect workers from wayward airborne objects.

See our entire collection of head protection products here.

4. Hazard Signs

Hazard signs warn construction workers of potential dangers on a construction site. You should use them to indicate where workers should wear safety equipment and whenever there is a risk of personal injuries such as electrocution or fire.

Depending on the type of project your workers are tackling, you may need a variety of safety signs to keep your worksite safe.

See our full collection of hazard signs here.

5. Non-Slip Rugs and Mats

Construction sites are often wet or dirty, making slippery surfaces even more dangerous. You should use non-slip rugs or mats in areas where there is a risk of slips and falls.

Be sure to measure the affected area that needs to be covered by a non-slip mat and purchase one that covers an adequate surface area.

You can see our complete collection of non-slip mats here.

6. Traffic Cones and Safety Barriers

Traffic cones and safety barriers block off areas of a construction site that are dangerous or off-limits to workers. You should use them to redirect traffic away from workers to prevent them from being struck by a vehicle.

We recommend our 28″ orange traffic cones to get the job done. This flexible, injection-molded PVC cone is engineered to withstand high-speed impacts by snapping back into shape.

7. High Visibility Vests

A high visibility vest is a type of PPE required by law in most states. Construction workers should wear a high visibility vest when working in areas with a risk of being struck by a moving vehicle.

This Class 2 Lime Mesh Zip Vest with 2″ wide silver reflective stripes (two vertical and one horizontal on both front and back) is sure to keep your workers visible and safe while on the job.

See our full collection of high visibility vests here.

8. Safety Harnesses

A safety harness is a type of PPE used to protect construction workers from falls. Construction workers should wear a safety harness when working in areas with a risk of falling.

Be sure to purchase a range of sizes to ensure the harnesses fit your workers appropriately. In addition, you can explore our safety harness collection here.

9. Respirators

Respirators are used to protect construction workers from exposure to harmful substances. Construction workers should wear a respirator when working in areas with a risk of exposure to toxic fumes or dust.

The 3M N95 Respirator is our go-to mask for protecting workers from dangerous dust particles.

Explore our collection of respirators to protect against everything from chemical vapors and gas to dust particles here.

10.Construction Gloves

Construction gloves are used to protect construction workers from cuts, scrapes, and burns. Construction workers should wear gloves when working with sharp objects or in areas where there is a risk of being cut.

Depending on the conditions of your project, workers may need gloves made from leather, rubber, or nylon.

Explore our full collection of hand protection here.

Where to Find the Highest Quality Construction PPE

Construction workers have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, but they can take some simple precautions to protect themselves from injury. Wearing the proper PPE can help prevent injuries and save lives.

Unisan Supplies in Columbus, OH, provides the industry’s best safety equipment, janitorial supplies, and warehouse supplies. We know that health and safety are the primary priorities at any construction site. You can easily order any safety equipment or products you need through our online store.

Looking for a more customized solution that will save you time? Our team will work closely with you to ensure your safety and cleaning products are always stocked and on hand. Give our team a call at (614) 863-1700.