7 Health and Safety Equipment NZ Workers Should Have in Their Truck
Do you do a health and safety equipment check before you head out for work? You need to make sure that you're prepared for anything that the day might throw at you. After all, you want to come home in the same condition that you left.
There are some essential health and safety equipment NZ workers should always have stowed away if they ever need it. Then there are other personal safety equipment items that you might need to remember to bring with you before starting your workday.
If you're stressing about bringing the wrong safety equipment on your commute to the worksite, don't worry. Just make sure that you've got these essential items every morning so you can feel safe and secure.
1. First Aid Kit
It doesn't matter whether you're working in an office or on a construction site, a first aid kid is an essential piece of safety equipment. While it's likely the site will have one of these, it doesn't hurt to store one of your own in your vehicle.
It doesn't need to be a toolbox's size, but it should contain bandages, burn kits, and ice packs. Any safety shop in NZ should have several variations of a first aid kit, including one that will suit your needs.
2. High Visibility Vests
Hi-vis clothing in NZ is always encouraged no matter what time of year it is. The best way to remember this safety equipment is by wearing it as you leave the house, regardless of the weather or if you think you're going to need to wear it.
These days, hi-vis clothes come in a range of different styles and colours to suit any workspace type. You can get hoodies, pants, and even full-body one-pieces, which are perfect if you need protection all over your body. While the entire street might be wondering why you're walking out of your house wearing neon colours, it's better than forgetting to bring it with you to work.
3. Flares
It's not unusual to see fog or snow in some parts of New Zealand, which is why it's important to pack some flares in the event visibility is so low that it calls for some extra lighting.
These items don't require any power sources and are often brighter than most torches. They don't take up a lot of room in your truck, so make sure you pack some before leaving, no matter what the weather forecast is.
4. Red Flags
If you forget the flares and visibility is low, you should pick up some red flags from the safety equipment store. While they don't generate as much light as flares, they still stand out in fogs and help protect any passerby from various hazards.
If red isn't your colour, then you might be able to purchase other bright styles. As long as they're classified as hi-vis and the flags are the right length, they're suitable safety equipment in NZ.
5. Fire and Safety Equipment
A fire incident is often an unexpected event, and not having an extinguisher on standby will determine how much damage the flames will cause. While most worksites will have one on-site, it's also beneficial to carry one in your truck if you ever need to deploy it.
You never know when a fire might start, whether it be from your cargo or from an event that occurs around your vehicle. It's better to be safe than sorry, which is why you should order one of these from only reputable safety equipment suppliers.
6. Eyes and Ear Protection
Safety gear in NZ must protect all parts of your body, but particularly your eyes and ears. If you don't know what the sound levels will be when you head to the worksite, you should always pack some headphones. If you don't have room, then put some earplugs in your pocket.
Eye injuries occur every day in many different forms of working environments. This type of damage is easily preventable simply by donning a pair of goggles. If you're on a site where this is infrared radiation or bright lights, then grab yourself a shield or some welding goggles to stay safe.
7. Health and Safety Equipment NZ Approved Gloves
It's highly likely that you do a lot of work with your hands, which is why they must always be protected. It doesn't matter what type of industry you work in, there are gloves to keep your digits safe at all time. Some of the most common types of safety gloves can protect you from the following:
- Chemical splashes
- Bacteria
- Extreme heat or coolness
- Sharp items and materials
- Strong vibrations
While it's unnecessary to pack every single type of glove, you should ensure you always have plenty of pairs available if you need multiple ones during the day. It's better to plan for a worst-case scenario than not be able to work because you don't have the right safety equipment.
Are You Missing Some Safety Equipment?
While there are dozens of health and safety equipment NZ workers should take with them to work, these are the most important objects that you should never forget. So make sure that you have all of these items in your vehicle before you leave the house.
If you don't have any of these essential items, then we can help ensure you can still work on your site. We provide equipment, clothing, and safety equipment to all New Zealanders. Visit our online safety store today and ensure you're ready and appropriately equipped for a safe day at work.
