Safety First, Comfort Second, Productivity Always: How PPE Saves the Day!
“Demand for gloves, masks, gowns and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) continues to grow in response to COVID-19”, according to UNICEF (Aug 2021) – from protecting construction workers and firefighters to providing comfort for factory workers on the production floor. To add, “the global PPE market is projected to grow from $80.38 billion in 2022 to $110.85 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 4.7%”, as mentioned by Fortune Business Insights in their published report in 2022.
PPE comes with an array of advantages for both employers and employees, ranging from improved safety and enhanced productivity/comfort to increased profitability. This can lead to significant cost savings, keeping businesses operating on all cylinders and making sure they stay competitive in an ever-changing environment.
With the recent global pandemic, the importance of PPE has become even more evident, with its use case proving to be an effective measure in slowing down the spread of infectious diseases, which in turn has led to an increase in demand for PPE across all sectors.
The benefits of using PPE are numerous, both for employers and employees:
- PPE protects workers from various hazards, including physical, chemical, and biological hazards. For example, construction workers must wear hard hats and safety glasses to protect themselves from falling debris or other potential head injuries.
- In the healthcare industry, PPE such as face masks, gloves, and gowns help protect healthcare workers from infectious diseases.
- Increased productivity and comfort. When employees feel safe and comfortable in their work environment, they tend to be more productive. For example, workers who are provided with comfortable and protective footwear are less likely to experience foot injuries, resulting in increased productivity.
- Comfortable and protective clothing can also improve job satisfaction, leading to higher retention rates and lower absenteeism.
- Employers who invest in PPE can enjoy increased profitability. By providing PPE to their employees, employers can minimize the risk of workplace injuries and illnesses which can be costly – both in terms of direct costs such as medical expenses and lost productivity, as well as indirect costs such as legal fees and worker compensation. By reducing the likelihood of workplace injuries, employers are thus able to save money and increase profitability.
To wrap up, the use of PPE has become an essential part of many industries. It provides numerous benefits, including improved safety, enhanced productivity and comfort, and increased profitability. And as the demand for PPE continues to grow, it is essential for employers to prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees by investing in the appropriate gearing.