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Safety

Danger ahead! Why protective equipment needs to fit perfectly

Such a stupid accident: boots just a little too big, path just a little uneven – and now a broken kneecap. It happens more than you would think – on construction sites, but also in offices or on the way to work. Why it is so important to make sure your equipment is right.

Implenia sets itself ambitious goals – and the field of occupational safety is no exception. The safety rules are easy to understand and clearly displayed everywhere. But accidents still happen.

Like when I tripped on the way to visit a construction site. I had bought those work boots online, ordering a size larger than usual because I had heard that they turned out smaller than advertised. I discovered my mistake when I tried them on at home, but decided that it would not matter since I usually work in the office and only wear the boots occasionally. That’s what I thought.

 

«Personal protective equipment MUST fit. Otherwise it is dangerous.

Felix Akeret, Global Head Safety

Felix Akeret, Global Head Safety, knows otherwise: “Personal protective equipment (PPE) MUST fit. Otherwise it is dangerous.” Boots that are too large present an increased risk of tripping. Old, worn-out footwear is also dangerous, as it does not provide enough grip and the sole may even become loose.

Felix Akeret knows that there is also a lot of work to do when it comes to safety goggles, which often do not have a tight seal. “If I can slide my little finger under my goggles when I have them on, they are not protecting my eyes.”

WARNING, DANGER!

  • Boots that are too big

  • Boots that do not provide support

  • Boots that have no grip

  • Sole that is coming loose

  • Safety goggles that do not fit right

Poorly fitting protective equipment is dangerous, not least because it gives us a false sense of security. Therefore: check regularly whether it fits. If not: replace it!

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