Rail workers play a crucial role in ensuring that the UK’s rail network is safe for everyone to use. From maintaining overhead power lines and signals to building new tracks, those that work in this sector keep the nation mobile. Ensuring the safety of rail workers is a top priority, which is highlighted by the PPE that must be worn by rail workers in order to stay safe.
Rail hi visibility clothing is one of the most vital pieces of workwear for staying safe when working on or near the lineside. Rail hi vis workwear enables rail workers to always to always be visible, even in poor weather conditions and during dark mornings and evenings. Only orange hi vis workwear is deemed by health and safety experts to provide adequate visibility for rail workers. Orange is a much better colour for improving visibility, as a worker wearing yellow high-visibility clothing will be more likely to blend into a green location. Rail hi vis clothing also keeps rail workers warm and dry, which, when working outside all year round, is crucial.
Safety boots are another vital piece of PPE for workers on the railways. When you consider the very physical nature of the job, you can understand why standard footwear is not suitable. It is essential for rail workers to wear safety boots that protect them from being crushed by heavy objects and that will provide them with a better grip in order to avoid slipping when working in muddy conditions.
Working in the rail industry can often involve being in proximity to loud trains and other machinery. Over time, this can damage a rail worker’s hearing. Because of this, hearing protection is an important piece of PPE that helps to protect rail workers, while still enabling them to do their job. This is why it is common to see rail workers using ear defenders to achieve the right level of protection.
At Work & Wear Direct we stock a range of PPE suitable for rail workers. All of our PPE products are high quality and are CE marked in accordance with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations of 2002.
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