PPE and workwear in Construction

PPE and workwear aren’t just useful in construction - they’re essential. 

From falling objects to moving vehicles, the right gear protects your team from real site risks. Plus, the right PPE keeps you compliant and your team focused on the job at hand. 

Under UK regulations, businesses have a legal duty to protect workers on site. This includes assessing risks and providing and maintaining the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) free of charge. 

But with all the ISO ratings and workwear options, you might be asking:

• What PPE do I need?
• How do I know it’s compliant?
• How can I make buying it easier?

Don’t worry - this guide covers everything from PPE essentials to branding and compliance.

WHY IS PPE REQUIRED FOR CONSTRUCTION?

Construction work is high-risk by nature. PPE helps to reduce these risks.

But, PPE can’t do its job unless it’s well-maintained and the right type for the risk.

Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (PPER 1992), updated in 2022, employers or site managers are legally required to provide suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

This means you must:

• Assess all site risks
• Make sure all PPE fits properly
• Maintain and replace worn PPE
• Train staff and make sure it’s worn correctly
• Supply the right PPE for the job - free of charge 

TOP TIP: PPE is your last line of defence. Always use it alongside other risk control measures, not instead of them.

WHY DOES BUILDING SITE PPE MATTER?

The correct PPE for construction keeps your team safe, seen, and protected.

Here’s how:

• If it’s not worn right, it won’t work right.
• Damaged or worn PPE won’t protect your team.
• Checking and replacing PPE helps you stay compliant.
• Checking that PPE is worn creates safe site expectations.
• Using the right gear cuts down on injuries and health issues.

Need help choosing PPE for your team?
Explore our full PPE range or chat with our helpful team today.

WHAT BUILDING SITE PPE DO I NEED?

Health and safety on building sites is better when you combine PPE with other risk control methods.

But, the PPE your team needs all depends on the job and its risks. That said, some PPE and workwear products are essential across all sites.

Here’s our must-have PPE construction checklist:

• Ear defenders prevent hearing loss in noisy areas.
• Gloves protect hands from cuts, burns, and vibrations.
• Eye protection shields the eyes from dust and debris.
• Safety boots prevent crush injuries, slips, and punctures.
• Hard hats protect against falling objects and head injuries.
• Hi-vis clothing keeps teams visible in low-light conditions.
• Respiratory protection filters out dust, fumes, and harmful particles.
• Fall protection, like harnesses and safety lanyards, makes working at height safe.

What construction PPE should you choose?
Give our friendly team a call on 0330 441 3500 - we’re happy to help.

WHAT ABOUT ISO AND EN STANDARDS?

PPE for construction must meet all EN and ISO standards and carry a UKCA or CE mark.

Here’s the key ones:

• EN ISO 20345 - Safety footwear
• EN ISO 20471 - High-visibility clothing
• EN ISO 13688 - General protective clothing 

HOW TO CHECK PPE IS COMPLIANT

To check your PPE and workwear is compliant, you just need to know what you’re looking for. 

Here’s what we’d do:

• Check for EN ISO labels
• Check for UKCA or CE marks
• Buy from a trusted supplier who knows your sector
• Avoid unsafe, unregulated, and poor-quality products 
• Ask for datasheets to check standards and protection 

Explore our full range of certified and regulation-ready PPE and workwear.

PPE LIST FOR CONSTRUCTION

A PPE checklist helps you stay compliant and keep your teams protected. Use it to check that the gear your team uses is properly maintained.

Here’s our list of PPE for construction sites:

ITEM OF PPE	WHAT YOU NEED TO CHECK
Hi-vis clothing	It’s clean and bright enough to be seen clearly.
Hard hats	It’s within the expiry date with no cracks or damage.
Eye protection	They fit well, and the lenses are clean and scratch-free.
Respiratory gear	It’s the right mask for the job, and filters are replaced regularly.
Gloves	It’s the right type for the risk with no rips, tears, or worn-out grip.
Safety boots	It’s the correct type, with intact soles and no punctures or worn tread.
Ear defenders	They’re in good condition, with the correct rating for the site's noise level.

 

TOP TIPS:

• Train your team on proper use.
• Log all PPE issued and replaced.
• Replace damaged or expired PPE.
• Do regular spot checks for compliance.

WHY IS BRANDING SO IMPORTANT FOR PPE?

Branding isn’t just about how your teams look. It helps with identity, visibility, and safety in construction sites.

It also helps you:

• Look more professional
• Recognise teams quickly
• Encourage accountability
• Boost morale and team pride
• Promote your business to the public

Want to know more? Discover our top branding tips and tricks.

HOW CAN SMI HELP YOU STAY SAFE ON SITE?

With over four decades of experience, we know what works on-site. So, we make sourcing your PPE and workwear easy, fast, and stress-free.

Here’s how:

• 97% stock availability
• Next-day delivery before 5PM
• Expert advice on PPE and standards
• Branded workwear dispatched in 2 days
• Eco-friendly and ladies' workwear options
• Easy online ordering and tracking with MY-SMI

NEED HELP CHOOSING THE RIGHT PPE?

Chat with our friendly team today!
Drop us a message, or give us a call on 0330 441 3500.

FAQs

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PROVIDING PPE ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE?

The employer. Under PPER 1992, you must supply, maintain, and replace all PPE free of charge. 

Workers should never be expected to buy their own gear.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WORKWEAR AND PPE IN CONSTRUCTION?

Workwear keeps teams comfortable and focused on the job. Think weatherproof trousers for work in the rain, or light polo shirts for hot environments.

PPE protects teams and visitors from site hazards. Think of hard hats, gloves, and masks that protect against accidents and injuries. 

Most construction sites need both. Always check that all gear is safe, fits, and right for the job.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST SAFETY ISSUE ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE?

Construction sites are full of risks, here are the most common ones:

• Moving vehicles
• Falls from height
• Noise and dust exposure
• Slips, trips, and manual handling injuries

PPE helps reduce these risks, but only if it’s correct, in-date, and in good working order. 

WHAT PPE SHOULD BE WORN ON A BUILDING SITE?

Workers should always have: 

• Hi-vis clothing
• Safety footwear
• Head protection
• Hand protection
• Hearing protection
• Respiratory protection 
• Eye and face protection

Explore our full range of PPE and workwear today.