At Tower, we help you find the right Hi Vis PPE jackets, trousers, polos, t-shirts, and foul weather clothing to keep you safe in the workplace. We can also give you access to a platform that controls how and what you order, and more importantly, who can access the right PPE for their role.
What we CAN’T do is maintain PPE for you. That responsibility lies at the feet of you and your employees. But maintaining your PPE ensures its effectiveness is maintained, and means it’s not replaced as often. This is just as important as making sure each role is allocated the right products.
Maintaining Hi Vis is an essential responsibility. Hi Vis is PPE. And as with all types of PPE, it needs to be checked over before it’s used, maintained properly, and stored correctly. If this isn’t done, then it might not be able to properly perform its job as the last the line of defence against risk.
Yes of course you can wash Hi Vis. But it needs to be washed according to the care instructions. This will tell you how and when to wash the Hi Vis, and the maximum number of washes (it can be as few as 25!). These care instructions will be found on the label somewhere inside the Hi Vis PPE.
By law all Hi Vis PPE must come with instructions, including life-saving information on how to properly combine safety helmets, ear protection, and eye protection. But it also includes guidance on how to safely store and inspect PPE. Be sure to ask your Hi Vis PPE wearers to read this carefully.
Just like all PPE, you should check Hi Vis PPE before every use. Don’t just throw it on! Make sure it’s completely intact, check the reflective tape is not loose or hanging off in any way, make sure it is still clean and bright, and ensure there are no signs of wear that might make the Hi Vis PPE defective
PPE Maintenance Checklist
Please don’t do this. You cannot adapt the Hi Vis PPE. PPE is tested to perform only in the state it is in when you receive it. If you change or adapt it, such as shortening the sleeves, taking off any of the reflective tape, or reducing the amount of Hi Vis colour on display, it may no longer be to standard.
Branded Hi Vis PPE is a great way to be recognised, look professional, and add a layer of security. Our branded Hi Vis PPE service includes complete design and application. We can help you add the right size logo, so it stays completely visible whilst not compromising the garment’s performance.
Hi Vis PPE is a standard of protection that is tested rigorously. But if Hi Vis PPE is not maintained properly, then there is the risk that it’s not keeping you safe. And there are no compromises when it comes to safety, so care for it as per the instructions, and only use it for as long as it tells you to.
Hi Vis PPE is the last line of defence. You should first eliminate, or physically move, the risk. This is the best method for ensuring PPE is only used when you need it. Contact us today to find out more about choosing, buying, and maintaining your PPE by filling out the contact form below.
A leading authority on hi vis, PPE, and workplace safety, Mark has board-level experience and is a qualified marketing professional with CPD from leading associations such as the BSIF and IOSH.
