There are a huge number of PPE related accidents in the UK each year and although from time to time it may be tempting to be lax on the proper use of PPE, the number of accidents and their costs are clear reminders of how important PPE is, especially to the construction industry.

 

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimate that there are approximately 9,000 PPE-related accidents in the workplace each year with construction being one of the most dangerous industry's to work in. 


HSE defines PPE related accidents as being accidents that come about due to the use, maintenance and failure to use the PPE that’s appropriate for the task at hand.


Of the 9,000 PPE related workplace accidents, the construction industry makes up the highest percentage whilst also having the highest number of fatal injury accidents as well and one of the highest fatal injury rates.


The HSE estimates that failure to consider PPE when spec’ing out jobs results in around £49m worth of costs every year whilst costs resulting from not using the PPE provided was in the region of £65m. The total cost of PPE related accidents sits at around £252m per year.


The number of PPE related accidents and the costs involved in them should be a clear warning to both employees and employers about the benefits of choosing the right PPE for the task at hand, and utilising it properly, with employers providing sufficient training for the employee to do so.


As a Preston builders’ merchant which trades nationally, we supply PPE equipment to a wide range of clients including independent tradespeople and building firms, understanding how important it is to ensure construction workers use the right personal protective equipment for the specified job.


View our range of PPE products or alternatively to speak with one of our PPE specialists please call 01772 786000.