When you work on site, safety is paramount. It’s definitely not optional, it’s essential. That’s where PPE - Personal Protective Equipment - comes into play…
No matter your trade or profession - builder, electrician, plumber, surveyor (the list goes on) - or if you’re employed or self-employed, wearing the right gear is a necessity to protect you from hazards. There is a duty of care to yourself, and others on site.
PPE covers all equipment or clothing designed to protect you from health and safety risks at work. All employers in the UK are legally required to provide suitable PPE to employees and to ensure it's properly used, maintained, and replaced when needed.
Here we break down the key items of PPE that every tradesperson should have - when and why it’s required.
Safety Helmet (Hard Hats)
When:
Suitable head protection - hard hats - must be worn on construction sites or anywhere there is risk of falling objects or risk of head injury from fixed structures such as scaffolding and beams.
Why:
Even a small object dropped from height can cause serious injury. Hard hats reduce the impact of blows to the head, and many are also designed to protect against electrical shock or penetration.
We stock a range of safety helmets - shop our Scan range now. Available in white, black, orange, blue and yellow.
High-Visibility Clothing
When:
Hi-vis PPE must be worn where there is risk of not being seen, for example, in low light, near traffic or on construction sites with moving machinery.
Why:
Making yourself more visible, prevents accidents. Hi-vis clothing helps you stand out to machine operators and colleagues, reducing the risk of harm.
Our hi-vis clothing collection includes waistcoats, jackets, trousers, shorts, sweatshirts, long and short sleeved t-shirts, overalls, bodywarmers and polo shirts - all available in a choice of colours.
Safety Gloves
When:
The appropriate type of glove must be worn when handling sharp materials, chemicals, hot or cold surfaces, or when there’s a risk of cuts, abrasions, or burns.
Why:
Different gloves offer protection for different hazards - for example, cut-resistant gloves for sharp tools, thermal gloves for winter work, or nitrile gloves for chemical exposure.
Eye Protection
When:
Eye protection is needed where there is any potential risk to eyesight - when drilling, cutting, or working with hazardous substances for example.
Why:
Eyes are vulnerable to serious, sometimes permanent, damage, and as such, safety goggles or glasses should be used to protect against dust, sparks, chemicals, flying objects, etc.
Shires Workwear carry a selection of safety goggles and glasses, including moulded and direct ventilation safety goggles, classic safety and flexi glasses.
Footwear
When:
If you work on construction or industrial sites, there is risk of falling objects, heavy equipment, moving vehicles, etc so it’s important to wear protective footwear.
Why:
Steel toe caps - or safety boots - not only protect your feet, but include features such as anti-slip soles, water resistance, and heat resistance that can keep you safe and comfortable.
Shires stock a wide range of footwear by V12, Buck Bootz, Xpert and Dassy, including:
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Boots and Safety Boots
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Shoes and Sandals
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Trainers
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Wellington Boots
Read our article: Choosing the Right Safety Footwear
Your Safety Matters
Don’t cut corners or overlook PPE - a lapse moment can result in lifelong consequences. Whether you’re buying for yourself or your team, make sure your workwear meets UK safety standards and is suitable for the job at hand.
Need to Restock Your PPE?
We’ve got everything you need to stay safe, visible, and compliant — from hi-vis jackets and hard hats to safety gloves and footwear.
Discounts are available for PPE bulk buy options and we also offer an embroidery and print service.
Browse our full PPE range at Shire Workwear or visit us in store at:
Abigate Industrial Park, Spratt Cl, Horncastle LN9 6SB
