L2A1: Clothing Part 3 - Accessories

We all know that accessories make the outfit. When you go out, you make sure your watch, your bag, sunglasses, and other bits and bobs are all in tip-top shape. And that’s often so you can look great. Well, in the work environment, it’s no different – except that these items are all designed to keep you safe. So, here are a few tips and things to make sure you have on you at all times to keep you safe when it comes to your clothing accessories as an electrician.

Gloves

Arguably the most important accessory, gloves protect your hands. We know that sounds basic, but so many injuries on site come from people who don’ have gloves on whilst doing something which could cut their hand, lacerate their palm, or skin fingers. But there is a bit more to think about when you’re thinking gloves as a sparky – namely that these gloves are rated for electrical currents. And, if you’re working on HVAC systems, you will need specific and special gloves which are ARC rated to ensure you’re protected properly. As with the boots from the first week, ensuring they are in good condition is not only to save you from shunts and bumps on your hands – but also having a layer of insulation between you and potentially dangerous electrical currents. Remember, most pants come with a glove clip, and EGT also supplies you with glove clips so you can keep them on you at all times. And, if they become ratty or damaged, replace them. $20 on a good pair of gloves is better than thousands on hand repair, or weeks off work - and you can always get a new pair from your field officer.

Safety Eyewear

Do you like the idea of having something lodged in your eye? No? Well then safety eyewear is the best way to protect you from that happening. Safety eyewear doesn’t have to look terrible either – there are many brands doing stylish sunglasses with safety ratings that meet the safety standards here in Australia. Regardless of what you buy, you need to make sure they meet the AS/NZS 1337.1:2010 standard for personal eye protection. So make sure when you purchase these glasses they meet that requirement! And, as with other things If they take an impact, it’s likely they will no longer be safe to use – so replace them if they take a direct hit.

Hard Hats

Whilst hard hats are not a requirement on all sites, when you work on many hi-rise sites, on mine sites, and other commercial applications, you will almost certainly require one. Similar to eyewear, they are governed by a piece of legislation AS/NZS 1801, and protect you from shock, piercing, and electrical resistance under this certification. You can get them in a variety of colours, and can even accessorise these with stickers – but if you are going to have one make sure it meets the standards. Also, if they happen to take a hit or a compression blow, replace it – the structural integrity of the helmet may have been compromised, leaving your head vulnerable. And, like gloves, there are further protections required for those working in a HVAC environment – so be sure to check that you’ve got the right stuff.

So, those are some of the key accessories and apparel you will need as an apprentice – and into your career as a sparky. Keeping these in good condition will help you stay safe, and protect you from the various hazards found whilst doing this job. Remember, next week our monthly quiz will be released – so study up, and we will see you in June!