Personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a vital role in keeping employees safe and healthy in the workplace. However, while PPE protects against physical hazards, it can also impact an employee’s psychological and social well-being if not managed properly. Below we will examine both the positive and negative effects of PPE on employee well-being and provide recommendations for employers on balancing safety and welfare.
The Benefits of PPE
When worn and used correctly, PPE such as hard hats, safety glasses, high-visibility clothing, and safety footwear provides a barrier between the employee and potential hazards. For employees working in higher-risk environments such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, PPE gives them peace of mind that they have the appropriate level of protection while carrying out their duties. This, in turn, can reduce stress and anxiety about suffering an injury.
Additionally, providing high-quality, comfortable PPE demonstrates that the employer values the employee’s health and safety. This contributes to higher employee satisfaction and engagement. Research shows that when employees feel cared for by their organisation, they are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and commitment.
The Drawbacks of PPE
While PPE protects against physical risk, it can also introduce ergonomic and psychological burdens. Tight-fitting respirators, heavy helmets and restrictive clothing allow little air movement and can cause heat stress. This leads to discomfort, fatigue and reduced productivity. Ill-fitting PPE that rubs or chafes can also increase injury risk.
Required PPE use at all times, even during lower-risk tasks, can make employees feel they are not trusted. This perception of over-monitoring can damage morale and trust between employers and staff. Some employees may even try to avoid PPE use when possible due to discomfort and a perceived lack of respect.
PPE also impacts communication and teamwork. Face masks and earplugs make it difficult to talk with co-workers. Barriers to social interaction can create feelings of isolation and lower job satisfaction.
Balancing Safety and Well-Being
While PPE protects employees from harm, it should not come at the cost of mental and social health. Some recommendations for employers aiming to strike the right balance include:
- Involve employees in PPE selection. Get input to ensure it is comfortable and well-fitting. Offer a choice of styles where possible.
- Provide regular PPE refresher training. Ensure employees understand proper use and maintenance.
- Rotate physically demanding PPE tasks among employees to limit fatigue.
- Encourage and remind employees to take adequate hydration and rest breaks.
- Specify tasks or areas where continuous PPE use is mandatory versus those where it can be flexibly applied.
- Schedule team-building activities where PPE is not required. This gives employees face time and opportunity to bond.
- Check in regularly with employees about how PPE is working for them and be open to feedback.
While essential for safety, PPE carries potential side effects that can negatively impact employee well-being if not managed appropriately. By involving staff in the process, providing comfortable and well-fitting products, setting reasonable expectations for PPE use, and creating opportunities for normal social interactions, employers can help strike a healthier balance.
