Safety experts from Magid, a PPE manufacturer and distributor, are sharing four tips to help safety professionals make the most of their 2023 PPE budget.
1) Analyze PPE usage
Review how much the company is spending, the safety items being purchased, and the frequency of restocking orders. If workers are going through PPE more quickly than expected, it may save money to find more durable gear that will last longer. It’s also possible that workers are tossing their PPE before it’s time. Inventory management programs can help track and control PPE usage. Training and posted guides can help workers to understand when they can continue using an item and when it’s time to launder or toss it.
2) Standardize PPE
Evaluate the various styles of PPE being acquired and determine which styles are being used for the same application or environment. After worker input about which styles are most popular, begin phasing out the other options. As a result, fewer styles will need to be ordered, bulk purchasing will become possible, and the hassle and expense of keeping PPE in stock will be reduced. Plus, employees will have buy-in because they had an opportunity to offer their opinion about which styles they liked best.
3) Try the latest PPE innovations
Although they might appear more expensive at first glance, many of the latest PPE innovations are more durable so they last longer and actually save money. Look for gloves with increased abrasion resistance, reinforcement points in critical wear areas such as a thumb saddle, and palm coatings that will stand up to tough environments. The latest PPE innovations also include features for increasing worker comfort. This is important because comfortable PPE plays a large role in keeping workers compliant while helping to reduce injuries and protect the bottom line.
4) Obtain a safety sssessment
Consult with a safety expert who can help with the first three tips. In a safety assessment, experts analyze things like usage, spending, and product application. Based on their assessment, the expert can then make recommendations for improving efficiency such as which PPE to standardize or which new innovations to try.
Source: Magid
