PPE, safety equipment, and site welfare: Best practice for builders merchants

UK employers are legally obliged to maintain fundamental site standards for all employees. Your responsibilities cover basic welfare facilities – such as clean toilets, handwash stations, rest areas, and accessible drinking water – as well as commitments that contribute to a healthy, hazard-free working environment. These include adequate ventilation and lighting, a reasonable temperature, and equipment to keep your teams working comfortably and safely. 

These more fluid safety requirements spotlight the importance of routine risk assessments to pinpoint changes in your compliance programme. Safety needs alter with new seasons and services, so it’s good practice to review what you are providing every few months to ensure your welfare, equipment, and supplies are fit for purpose. 

Regular risk assessments can highlight the need for updated or upgraded personal protective equipment (PPE). While you should always attempt to avoid the use of PPE by eliminating hazards and modifying tasks to mitigate risks, an adequate supply of safety equipment should be readily available on your site. 

Here’s a rundown of builders merchants’ most commonly used PPE and safety gear. You can also speak to your Opus Safety consultant for guidance on your branch’s specific needs. 

Hi-visibility clothing ‍

High-visibility clothing is essential to keep staff visible when working near forklifts, vehicles, and machinery. They also help workers stand out during winter when viewing distances are restricted. Each garment must comply with EN ISO 20471 standards (e.g. standard colours, reflective strips, etc.).

Safety boots 

Safety footwear, which includes steel or composite toe caps, anti-slip soles, and puncture-resistant midsoles, protects workers’ feet from heavy objects, slips, and sharp materials. Boots should meet EN ISO 20345 standards and be fitted to the individual’s foot length and width – usually a half to one size larger than regular shoes. 

Safety gloves ‍

Safety gloves prevent injuries from cuts, abrasions, chemicals, and other hazards. The glove type will vary according to the tasks undertaken, but choices include cut- or chemical-resistant options that comply with EN 388 or EN 374 standards. During cold weather, thermal gloves insulate yard workers’ hands against frostbite, while allowing for grip and range of movement.

Hard hats ‍

Designed to absorb the force of falling objects or impact hazards, safety helmets are a critical defence against workplace head injuries. Helmets should adhere to EN 397 standards, be properly fitted and adjusted, and be regularly inspected for signs of damage that could limit their effectiveness. Hard hats can also be used in conjunction with chin straps, visors, or ear protection. 

Hearing protection ‍

A busy builders merchant generates noise from machinery, tools, and vehicles. Ear protection reduces exposure and safeguards your team from hearing loss or damage. Ear defenders or earplugs are most commonly used, offering varying noise reduction depending on your working environment. Ear protection should be properly fitted, regularly cleaned, and routinely checked to maintain maximum performance. 

Eye protection ‍

Safety glasses, goggles, and face shields protect workers from everyday hazards, including dust, debris, and chemical splashes. Eyewear should fit securely and comfortably while not obstructing vision or lessening the effect of other PPE, such as helmets or ear protection. To avoid accidents, workers should also be trained to keep eye protection clean and free of scratches. 

Respiratory protection ‍

Airborne particulates, particularly wood dust, are common hazards within a builders merchant environment. Local exhaust ventilation (LEV), adequate airflow channels, and staff awareness training should be implemented alongside FFP3 masks and gloves (for use when changing dust bags) and respiratory protective equipment (RPE) when sanding. When FFP3 masks are required, face fit testing should be provided as part of your risk assessment. 

Raise safety standards with an Opus Safety specialist ‍

If you have questions about protecting your team from common workplace hazards, speak to an Opus Safety consultant. Our tailored risk assessment and occupational health services have helped hundreds of builders merchants safeguard staff and transform compliance performance. 

Get in touch on 0330 043 4015 or email hello@opus-safety.co.uk.