Smart Safety Through the Seasons: Essential PPE for Landscapers

With rain, dropping temperatures, and low light to contend with, it is important that professionals are equipped with the right PPE to maximise safety, productivity, and comfort at all times. Therefore, investment in high-quality clothing and accessories is a must.

Here, Paul Hicks, Marketing and Product Manager at STIHL GB, discusses what qualities landscapers should prioritise in their PPE to ensure safety, comfort, and productivity during the cooler months.

Safety First

When it comes to PPE, safety is non-negotiable. Although, it is important to note that while the correct kit can help in the event of an accident, safe working practices should always be carried out to prevent injury.

Therefore, protective clothing and accessories should always meet the relevant safety standards. Professionals are urged to check that their PPE is appropriate for the intended use case.

Keeping warm

Energy and concentrations levels can dip when trying to keep warm, which can impact reaction times. Unfortunately, these lapses can have serious consequences. Therefore, clothing must help to regulate temperature, be water-repellent, offer breathability, and allow moisture to escape.

Thanks to advances landscapers have access to PPE that delivers excellent levels of comfort during winter. Modern fabrics offer thermal efficiency without adding weight, enabling users to stay protected from the elements whilst moving freely.

Materials that offer efficient moisture management are also recommended for professionals, especially in winter. Wick linings combined with breathable outer layers allow moisture to vaporise, without letting bitter air in.

Additionally, ventilation zips are also great for adaptability, allowing users to release excess heat during strenuous tasks and zip back up when they can feel the cold. Fast drying outerwear is also a must, preventing hypothermia in cold conditions.

Keep it moving

Professionals in the landscaping space must be able to rely on kit that supports, without restrictions. Good mobility reduces fatigue and strain, maintaining efficiency in the face of the elements.

For maximum freedom in all weather conditions, flexible fabrics and ergonomic fitting allow professionals to move freely. Well-fitted clothing with multi-directional stretching characteristics work with the body, allowing the user to move naturally, all while protecting them on the job.

Landscapers should also invest in outwear that is water-repellent and fast drying to save from unnecessary weight which can hinder movement.

Keeping it light

Adding to the visual complexity of the job, wintery low light, grey skies, and fog can create a safety hazard for landscaping professionals.

Therefore, strategically placed, brightly coloured PPE should contrast with the environment to bolster visual recognition, even at a distance. Reflective strips should also be intentionally placed. Well-designed clothing should feature these elements along moving joints, effectively catching light as the user moves.