Back To Work With Compliant Safety Workwear
Ensuring Workplace Safety: Total Image Group’s Guide to Designing Compliant Workwear
SYDNEY December 2023: In the pursuit of workplace safety, ensuring compliance with hi-vis workwear standards is paramount. Employers bear a moral and legal responsibility to safeguard their workforce, with adherence to these standards being not only imperative but a legal requirement. Non-compliance, as reported by Safe Work Australia[1], has been a contributing factor in over 300 workplace fatalities and numerous injuries over the past five years alone.
In high-risk settings like construction sites, mines, and warehouses, high-visibility workwear serves as the first line of defence for workers. Total Image Group (TIG), renowned for its expertise in branded uniforms, understands that when applied effectively, this workwear becomes a crucial component of workplace safety. Its proper implementation not only averts minor mishaps but also plays a pivotal role in preventing catastrophic incidents.
Whether you are an employer, an employee, or a safety professional, TIG has assembled a thorough checklist to assist you in crafting and procuring high-visibility workwear that aligns with the Australian standard - AS/NZS 4602.1:2011.
Key Considerations When Designing Hi-Vis Workwear for Safety
1. Industry and Context: Understanding the specific industry and context is the foundation for designing a safety-oriented uniform range. Varying safety requirements exist across industries, and uniforms should be tailored accordingly. For instance, construction sites necessitate high-visibility clothing for visibility, while healthcare settings require materials that withstand frequent, high-temperature washing.
2. Material Selection: The choice of materials directly impacts safety. Consider flame-resistant fabrics for those dealing with open flames, while moisture-wicking materials are crucial for high-temperature environments. Materials should prioritise comfort, allowing for ease of movement, breathability, and temperature regulation without compromising safety.
3. Visibility and Reflectivity: In low-visibility environments, such as construction zones, incorporating reflective elements is essential. Strategic placement of reflective tapes or patches enhances visibility in low-light conditions, mitigating the risk of accidents.
4. Ergonomics and Mobility: Safety extends beyond protective gear to include uniform design that facilitates movement and dexterity. Design uniforms that allow unrestricted movement, incorporating stretch fabrics or adjustable features to accommodate various body sizes and shapes.
5. Protective Accessories: Certain industries require accessories like hard hats, gloves, goggles, and respirators for employee safety. Design uniforms with practical storage options or attachment points for these accessories, ensuring easy accessibility.
6. Compliance with Regulations: Uniform designs must adhere to relevant safety regulations and standards. Meeting AS/NZS 4602.1 standards for high-visibility clothing and complying with specific safety guidelines for protective equipment is essential.
7. Durability and Maintenance: Uniforms endure wear and tear, exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and repeated laundering. Design uniforms that are durable and easy to clean without compromising safety features. Provide proper care instructions to employees to prolong uniform lifespan.
8. Employee Feedback: Incorporating employee feedback into the design process provides valuable insights into safety concerns and practical needs. Surveys or focus groups can gather insights on comfort, functionality, and potential safety issues.
By considering these factors, organisations can create uniforms that not only reflect their identity but also prioritise the well-being and safety of employees. Balancing safety, functionality, and aesthetics is the hallmark of a successful uniform design, fostering a secure and comfortable work environment.
Total Image Group specialises in designing and assisting with all high-visibility and tradie workwear. For further information on how to acquire compliant branded workwear visit www.totalimagegroup.com.au
About us:
Total Image Group
Total Image Group (TIG), an Australian-owned family enterprise, has been a pioneer in branded uniform design and supply since 2005. With offices in Sydney, Melbourne, and China, they are the ultimate uniform specialists, dressing over 350,000 workers daily for esteemed clients like Ford Australia, Bonza Airlines, and the Australian Winter Olympic Team. Their commitment to excellence is unwavering, offering tailor-made creations and ready-to-wear solutions that combine fashion-forward design with purpose-built functionality. CEO and Founder, Pamela Jabbour, is a renowned authority in the uniform industry, contributing insights to publications such as Power Retail, CEO World Magazine, Franchise Business, HRD, and more. For more information visit totalimagegroup.com.au
Contact details:
Veronica Deufel
T: 0425 276702