People are always complaining about the huge amount of road and construction projects going on this time of year, but while others are concerned about detours, traffic jams and getting to work on time, you’ve got bigger things to worry about — like making sure your employees return home from work safely!
Job sites for construction and roadway workers are dangerous places, especially if crews can’t be seen. High visibility gear is a must, but there are several factors to consider when choosing what’s right for you:
Color - Most high vis gear is either fluorescent orange or yellow/green. Does it really matter which you choose? You bet. Before you grab whatever’s available, consider the surroundings of your job site. If there’s a sea of orange cones and barrels, workers wearing orange vests might blend in rather than stand out.
Weather - They often say in Michigan, “If you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes!” Temperatures and conditions vary greatly when working outdoors, especially around here. Look for high vis clothing and accessories made of breathable material when the weather’s hot, and insulated for when it’s cold. Better yet, opt for the versatility of gear that offers both.
Flame Resistance - When working with electrical hazards, and oil or gas there is always the risk of fire. It’s important to protect your crew with gear that’s not only high vis, but also flame resistant, as well as compliant with industry standards and regulations.
Wear - Make sure the reflective striping is made of durable materials to avoid losing its effectiveness, and replace any garments with striping that seems worn or rubbed off since their reflective properties are likely lost.
And Tear - If working around machinery or equipment with moving parts, it’s a good idea to choose high vis gear with breakaway features. That way, if clothing becomes entangled, it can easily tear off, keeping the worker out of harm’s way.
No matter what type of high visibility gear fits your needs, you’ll find it at Action Industrial Supply! We have a huge selection of high vis clothing, accessories, signage and more, because safety is as important to us as it is to you. Place an order online, or give us a call at 800-527-5548.
Be careful out there.
