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tlennox  
#1 Posted : 31 October 2019 14:52:45(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
tlennox

Hi 

What is everyones view on PPE for working outside? Some of our personnel are currently completing some work outside, the company provide coveralls, high visibility jackets, fleeces, thermal tops and trousers and standard safety footwear, gloves, hard hats, etc. Someone is requesting fishermans socks, would this be classed as PPE that the company should provide? 

Thanks 

Elfin Davy 09  
#2 Posted : 31 October 2019 16:23:40(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Elfin Davy 09

Not sure about the supply of fishermen's socks per se, but - and working on the theory that if your feet are cold, you're cold - maybe some thought could be given to supplying socks of some description ?

Alternatively of course, you could take a more radical approach and mention to them that they could wear two pairs of normal socks when the weather dictates they're necessary.

chris42  
#3 Posted : 01 November 2019 10:10:13(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
chris42

Yes, you can consider thermal socks as PPE as you are going to provide for protection against the cold. As well as possible issue of thermal socks, you can get safety footwear with thermal properties and they will have the marking / rating CI=Cold insulation of sole complex.

Hope this helps

Chris

jmaclaughlin  
#4 Posted : 04 November 2019 15:10:32(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
jmaclaughlin

In terms of PPE we provide balaclava & snood which gives you a lot more extra warmth than socks, also waterproof safety boots are very effective.

Currently we  do not class socks as PPE.

John Carver  
#5 Posted : 04 November 2019 15:36:07(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
John Carver

Originally Posted by: tlennox Go to Quoted Post

... Someone is requesting fishermans socks, would this be classed as PPE that the company should provide? 

It may be worthwhile formally understanding the health needs of the individual concerned. He/she may have a health condition that has not been declared / understood. Perhaps ask your HR department to partner with you on the topic. 

If it turns out to be a non-issue in respect of a health condition, and no need to mitigate against any health (or safety) risks, you might be inclined to supply the person with some socks as part of their winter 'uniform' or perhaps supply lined safety footwear.

I have to say, this is something I have never been requested for, or have been asked to decide upon. That is not to say it isnt a valid question. Perhaps my past employees have just 'doubled up' with their own socks, etc.

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