3 Workplace Safety Trends to Know from SA’s Leading PPE Suppliers
Before COVID-19 and a three-month lockdown that stunted every South African SME, the Occupational Health and Safety Act put rigid compliance regulations in place to keep environments risk-free and workers safe. Post COVID-19, we see an even greater focus on improving worker safety. Not only are we battling an invisible virus, but the pandemic is drawing attention to many other trends.
At Top 2 Toe, we are the leading PPE suppliers and wholesalers in the Southern Hemisphere, addressing electrical, heat, chemical, biohazard, and airborne particulate matter. As a result of our experience, knowledge, and training, we address the safety needs of the government and private sector.
Boasting a well-educated team of health and safety consultants, not only do we hold excellent product knowledge across all haphazard industry sectors, but we keep current with new and changing technologies, regulations, and workwear and PPE trends. Here are three trends taking place right now.
- Ergonomic Safety Equipment and Clothing Suited to Preferences and Comfort
As we head into a “new normal”, we expect the pandemic wheel will turn until South Africa achieves over 50% public immunity. As a result, protective equipment and clothing remain a top necessity for businesses of all sizes. With incident management and hygiene compliance mandatory, the next trend in PPE is investing in ergonomic safety clothing that makes employees happy. For instance, lighter fabrics made from specialised fire- and water-resistant textiles, looser fitting equipment, breathable masks and respiratory gear, and fine-knit gloves providing increased comfort and safety.
- From Detection to Prevention Safety Programmes
PPE is a significant line of defence against workplace injury and illness. However, since COVID, health and safety focused on detection-based-programmes centering on detection protocols and mitigating risks rather than preventative measures. The new trend is companies outsourcing OHS experts to educate and train employees on possible life-threatening scenarios, which minimises loss and helps businesses get the most from their PPE.
- Mental Health Recognition Programmes
2021 is the year where mental health programmes form part and parcel of HR functions. 2020 was a terrible year for mental health. Credit debt, overdue retail accounts, late bond payments, and an increase in living expenses coupled with a sinking economy is a lot to carry, triggering conditions like depression, anxiety, insomnia, and even substance abuse. Given the prevalence of these pressing concerns, we see a new trend with more companies providing counselling and crisis programmes.
If you are unsure about quality or regulation, chat to one of the consultants at Top 2 Toe to find out exactly what type of PPE you need from suppliers. By getting your workers to wear the right gear with help from PPE suppliers, you enable a more productive workforce.