Veilige werkkleding in de bouw: hier moet je op letten

Safe work clothing in construction: this is what you should pay attention to

Every work environment has its own dangers. Fortunately, there are many rules and protocols to ensure that the risk of any accidents is significantly reduced. One of these measures is wearing the right work clothing.

Workwear for construction have an important property: to offer protection. Work trousers must be able to withstand a knock, but also be comfortable. This of course also applies to T-shirts and polo shirts. On the one hand, it must be functional by protecting you from the cold or offering breathability. On the other hand, it must be comfortable and representative. But are you optimally protected against all dangers?

Work shoes

Good safety shoes or work boots offer your feet protection against fall, impact and cutting damage. For example, a heavy beam falling on your foot can cause nasty fractures that could prevent you from working. Of course, nobody wants that. With the right shoes, you can prevent these kinds of problems. The most popular work shoes have an S3 standard, which protects you from many potential hazards.

 

View all S3 work shoes

PPE

Personal protective equipment (PPE) are for example hearing protection, work gloves or head protection . PPE is also part of the basic equipment and is essential for safe working. Below are some of our recommendations.

 

View all work gloves View all hearing protection

Work trousers

The ideal work trousers for construction is comfortable, durable and functional. You can think of work trousers with enough pockets to store your tools. This way you always have your hands free when necessary. Work trousers that we recommend for this are, for example, work trousers with Cordura (wear-resistant, durable material) and work trousers with stretch (for extra comfort). It is also nice to have knee pockets, so that you can sit on your knees without pain if necessary. See below for recommendations for work trousers in construction.

 

View all work trousers

Shirts, sweaters and jackets

When working in construction it is important to keep your torso warm, especially when it is chilly outside. A misconception is that thick work clothing is the best option for cold conditions. multi-layer system is however the best choice. The different layers each have a unique function. Here you need:

  • Thermal underwear: this has a strong breathable effect and ensures that perspiration is quickly removed.
  • Insulating intermediate layer: for example a T-shirt , polo or sweater . This intermediate layer also ensures that perspiration can be properly drained.
  • A work jacket: protection against the weather. With a softshell jacket is right for you for moderately cold temperatures, light rain and snowfall. Need something warmer? Then you can combine this with a good winter coat. This is suitable for heavier weather and colder temperatures.

 

View all thermal clothing View all work jackets

 

High visibility workwear

For some construction work it is a requirement to high vis workwear to wear. This clothing then meets the EN ISO 20471 standard. This is also called signal clothing. There is often a choice of three different colours: yellow, orange and red.

 

View all Hi-Vis clothing

Requirements

The aforementioned examples are of course not necessary for everyone. Therefore, always check within your industry and activities which components in the field of safety clothing are required. This way you prevent unnecessary risks and you are always well protected! Do you want advice on choosing the right work clothing? Feel free to contact us via the chat on the site, by email (info@unishorebedrijfskleding.nl) or call 0223-661300.

Frequently Asked Questions

What work clothing is mandatory on the construction site?

On the construction site, sturdy, protective work clothing is mandatory, such as work trousers and a work jacket or shirt with sufficient freedom of movement. Often, this clothing must also meet certain safety standards, such as flame-retardant or wear-resistant. In many cases, high-visibility work clothing is mandatory. The exact requirements can vary per project or client. Weather conditions can also determine the required clothing.

Which PPE is mandatory in construction?

In construction, a safety helmet, safety shoes with steel toe caps (minimum S3), hearing protection, eye protection and gloves are usually mandatory. Depending on the work, respiratory protection or fall protection may also be required. PPE must comply with the applicable European standards. The employer is responsible for providing the correct protection. Its use is mandatory as soon as risks have been identified.

Should work clothing in construction always be reflective?

Reflective clothing is not always mandatory, but it is in situations where visibility is essential, such as during road construction or working in the dark. In those cases, clothing in accordance with EN ISO 20471 is mandatory. On regular construction sites, it depends on the risk assessment. Employers increasingly opt for high-vis clothing as standard to limit risks. After all, reflective clothing significantly increases safety.

What is the difference between normal work clothing and multi-norm clothing?

Regular work clothing offers basic protection and comfort, while multi-norm clothing meets multiple protective standards at once. For example, multi-norm clothing protects against flames, heat, chemicals and electric arc. This is intended for risky environments such as petrochemicals or heavy industry. The fabric composition is often inherently flame-retardant and durable. Multi-norm clothing can be recognized by the many pictograms on the label.

How often should PPE be replaced?

PPE should be replaced when damaged, worn or no longer effective. Some products, such as helmets or filters, have a maximum lifespan or expiration date. Regular inspection is essential to ensure safety. The frequency of replacement depends on the intensity of use, environmental factors and product type. If in doubt, the PPE should be replaced immediately.

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