How do you keep your safety equipment up to date?

1 Check the expiry dates

Some safety equipment has a limited shelf life and needs to be replaced after a certain period of time. This includes items like respirators, filters, cartridges, gloves, eye protection, and first aid kits. Check the expiry dates on the labels or packaging and dispose of any expired or damaged items safely. Replace them with new ones that meet the current standards and regulations.

2 Inspect and maintain regularly

Other safety equipment may not have a specific expiry date, but still requires regular inspection and maintenance to ensure it's in good working order. This includes items like helmets, harnesses, ladders, fire extinguishers, and electrical tools. Inspect them before and after each use for any signs of wear, tear, cracks, corrosion, or malfunction. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean, store, and repair them. Report any defects or issues to your supervisor or safety officer and tag them as out of service until they are fixed or replaced.

3 Update and upgrade as needed

Sometimes, safety equipment may become outdated or inadequate due to changes in the work environment, tasks, or hazards. For example, new technologies, materials, or processes may introduce new risks or require different types of protection. Or, you may need to adapt your equipment to suit different weather conditions, locations, or situations. Update and upgrade your safety equipment as needed to comply with the latest standards, guidelines, and best practices. Consult with your employer, safety officer, or industry association for advice on what equipment you need and how to use it correctly.

4 Train and educate yourself and others

Keeping your safety equipment up to date also means keeping yourself and others informed and educated on how to use it properly. Safety equipment is only effective if you know how to wear, adjust, operate, and store it correctly. You also need to know when and where to use it, what hazards it protects you from, and what limitations or risks it may have. Train and educate yourself and others on the safe and correct use of safety equipment. Attend regular refresher courses, workshops, or webinars. Read the manuals, labels, and safety data sheets. Ask questions, share feedback, and learn from others.

5 Review and evaluate your safety equipment

Finally, keeping your safety equipment up to date also means reviewing and evaluating its performance and suitability on a regular basis. You can do this by conducting audits, surveys, inspections, or tests. You can also collect and analyze data, feedback, incidents, or accidents related to your safety equipment. Review and evaluate your safety equipment to identify any gaps, issues, or improvements. Make adjustments, modifications, or replacements as necessary. Communicate your findings and recommendations to your employer, safety officer, or colleagues.

Keeping your safety equipment up to date is not a one-time task, but an ongoing process. It requires your attention, commitment, and cooperation. By following these tips, you can ensure that your safety equipment is always ready, reliable, and effective for your workplace safety.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?