Electrical contracting places a high priority on safety, which is why you always complete a SWMS document before starting on a project.. A critical area of concern for professionals in this field is eye and face protection, and it is absolutely critical that the equipment is of high quality in order to be effective.
How do the eyes and face get damaged?
There are many dangers associated with electrical contracting that a SWMS document will note, including but not limited to:
There is a risk of exposure to flying particles in this industry. Material can be cut, drilled, or ground as a result of various activities. In order to protect against these hazards, safety glasses are an essential piece of equipment. A shield is designed to protect the eyes from flying debris, and it is made of materials that are impact-resistant. In some cases, safety glasses alone are not sufficient to protect against larger and more hazardous particles. The wearer may need to wear goggles or a face shield in such a situation.
The risk of molten metal in electrical contracting is another important consideration. Heat from welding or soldering can cause severe burns when metal splatters and reaches its melting point. This risk is specifically addressed by welding helmets sold by NECA. Furthermore, they prevent harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation produced by welding by shielding the eyes and face from molten metal.
Chemicals: Exposure to harmful chemicals is another concern in this industry. Whether it’s liquid chemicals used in cleaning processes or chemical gases and vapours produced during operations, these substances can cause severe eye and skin injuries. These hazards can be effectively protected with goggles and full-face respirators.
Electric arcs pose a unique risk to electrical contractors. A severe burn can result from electrical faults that produce intense heat. In order to protect against this risk, that a SWMS document should note, specialised face shields and arc flash suits are available.
It isn\'t just the hazard itself that poses a risk in each of these cases, but also how severe it is. It can be difficult to meet the minimum standards for safety gear for the eyes and face, and many struggle to understand how it can be done.
What to look for when choosing protective equipment
Electrical contractors, including NECA, are committed to safety. Our range of protective equipment is tailored to meet the unique needs of electrical contractors due to the diversity of jobs and risks in this field.
In addition to safety glasses for general eye protection, safety goggles are designed to provide increased eye protection, face shields cover the entire face, welding helmets designed to protect workers from dangerous radiation and sparks, and respirators designed to protect workers against harmful dust and fumes. We are committed to the well-being of electrical contractors by offering a comprehensive range of safety equipment.
Qualitative factors are important
It is imperative that personal protective equipment is of the highest quality. In the quest for cost savings, it may be tempting to select cheaper, low-quality alternatives, but doing so can expose the work environment to unnecessary risks. It\'s important to select equipment that meets and exceeds safety standards, such as that offered by NECA. Designed to provide reliable protection while withstanding the rigors of a worksite, these products are built from durable materials.
The same strict safety standards may not apply to low-quality alternatives. As a result, workers may be exposed to potential hazards if they are made from inferior materials that are not able to withstand impact or penetrate. When equipment does not fit properly, employees can be exposed to risks, and it may not be as durable, requiring frequent replacement. Electrical contractors should invest in high-quality eye and face protection equipment not only to comply with safety regulations, but also to protect their well-being
Approximately 8% of all workplace injuries occur to the eyes, with electrical workers having a disproportionately high risk despite the risk being noted in a SWMS document before a project begins. Eye injuries can keep workers out of work for months, if not permanently, so protecting their eyes isn\'t just good for the company. The issue is morally and ethically important.
Contact NECA for help selecting the right protective gear for your project if you\'re unsure – especially with filling out the SWMS Document. If you need assistance finding the right solution for your people, we have the expertise to help.