How can the right clothing reduce the need for workers’ comp?

On Behalf of | Sep 26, 2022 | Workers' Compensation

When you work for an employer, they are expected to do what they can to keep you safe. Obviously, there are reasonable limits, as if they were to wrap you in cotton wool, nothing would get done.

One of the safety measures that is easy and relatively cheap for employers to implement is providing you with proper clothing for the job.

What this means will depend on what your role entails, but here are some typical examples:

Safety boots

Solid toe caps can prevent a falling item from crushing your toes. A non-slip sole makes working on wet floors or climbing ladders safer. Full covering of the foot with a resistant material reduces the chance that spilled chemicals or hot liquids burn you.

Headwear

Hard hats are crucial wherever there is the risk of something falling on your head. For example, if working as a groundsman beneath someone trimming trees or if working on a construction site.

Protective overalls or aprons

These are not just about keeping your own clothes clean. They are generally made of tough material, which can give you some protection from spilled materials.

Gloves

These can protect your hands from coming into contact with dangerous materials. For example, nurses wear gloves to avoid contact with potentially contaminated blood. They can also give protection from rough or sharp surfaces that could cut or bruise your hands, such as when landscape gardening.

Protective clothing can only do so much to prevent injuries at work. They can never entirely eliminate the chance you may need to claim workers’ compensation.