Updated: Sunday, August 11, 2002
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Introduction
The Construction Industry is gradually improving its safety record but it is a sad fact of life that accidents can and do sometimes occur. Within the School we take our safety responsibilities very seriously and we expect our students to be equally vigilant - this extends to us expecting all students to equip themselves with at least a minimum level of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Our courses are very much 'hands-on' - we regularly visit working construction sites where access will be denied unless suitable PPE is worn.

To assist prospective and current students in selecting suitable PPE, here are some guidelines to the three essential items you will require:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  1. Reflective Jacket: to EN471 Class 3. Note that simple reflective waistcoats are no longer acceptable on many sites - EN471 Class 3 requires a full jacket (ie with sleeves) with at least two bands of reflective tape around the body and sleeves.
  2. Safety Shoes or Boots: with 200 Joule toe protection to EN345-1 and a penetration resistant midsole (just in case you tread on a nail). Construction sites can also get wet and muddy - a water repellent boot might help to keep your feet dry and warm.
  3. Safety Helmet: to EN397. Look for a design which has fittings to accept a chin strap.

A wide range of suitable PPE is available; here are some 'typical' prices (including VAT):

  • Reflective Jackets: from about £20 for a simple velcro-fastening overjacket (as shown in the picture above) to £50 and upwards for a lined waterproof jacket with a hood and pockets.
  • Safety Shoes or Boots: from about £20 for a pair of simple Wellingtons to about £35 for a pair of Derby boots (as shown in the picture above). If you intend to take the Diving option (click here for more details) then you might consider investing in a pair of lined 'Rigger' boots - a little more expensive at about £50 but ideal for those freezing cold winter mornings on a dive boat.
  • Safety helmet: about £5.

There are a number of PPE stockists in Plymouth who can supply suitable equipment - for example Protective Wear Supplies and Buck and Hickman Limited. Both of these companies offer a 'Student' package of a reflective jacket, a pair of safety boots and a safety helmet for around £55.

Click here for details of the package offered by Buck and Hickman Limited.
Click here for details of the package offered by Protective Wear Supplies.

Remember: You are free to get your own PPE from any supplier - but please make sure that it conforms to the appropriate "EN" safety standard listed above.
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