The present COVID-19 crisis has everyone talking about PPE. This acronym has been in the news so much lately, that you might think it only refers to surgical masks, gloves, and face shields for healthcare workers.
PPE stands for personal protective equipment, and it refers to all sorts of protective gear across a wide range of industries, including the plumbing industry.
New construction plumbing contractors face a variety of on the job hazards for which PPE is necessary to help keep them safe.
What hazards do new construction plumbing contractors face?
The risks involved working as a plumber range from being exposed to hazardous materials such as chemicals and raw sewage to physical injury, which may be caused by working for long periods in awkward positions or by lifting heavy objections.
Plumbers working on new construction may also face injury due to falls from heights or injuries caused by exposure to electricity, noise, or extreme temperatures.
What types of PPE do new construction plumbing contractors use?
The types of PPE worn by plumbers is going to vary based on the job that they are doing. For example, if a plumber is grinding or cutting a pipe, it will be very important for them to wear eye protection. If they are working in an area that is wet or slippery, good footwear will be essential. When working with hot pipes, plumbers can protect themselves with PPE, including face shields and heat-insulating gloves.
Plumbing contractors must be especially careful working in proximity to raw sewage since pathogens found in human waste can lead to many serious illnesses. Coveralls, gloves, rubber boots and eye protection are all very important to prevent exposure.
How else do new construction plumbing contractors ensure safety on the job?
In addition to the PPE that they wear for various parts of the job, plumbing contractors take several other measures to help keep them safe.
Starting with their training, plumbers learn the specific safety hazards related to their job and the measures that they need to take to protect themselves. In some cases, they must learn very specific safety procedures – such as when they must work with asbestos.
Keeping their equipment and power tools in good working order as well as making sure they are powered down correctly before putting away is also very important.
Plumbers also practice good ergonomics as much as possible and try to move around at least every 30 minutes even when working in the most uncomfortable of positions. Learning proper lifting techniques is essential to saving a plumbing contractor’s back.
Contact Wentworth Plumbing today
If you are a builder or developer and are looking for a new construction plumbing contractor for your next build, it is critical that you work with a company that understands the importance of safety and PPE. To speak with a member of our team or to discuss your project, contact us today.