Retailer’s essential guide to PPE for DIY enthusiasts 

The essential guide to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for DIY enthusiasts plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of individuals engaged in various activities, from industrial work to do-it-yourself (DIY) projects. For retailers, PPE represents a significant opportunity for growth and increased profits. However, it is essential to recognise that education is paramount in this area.  

DIY & Industrial Trade News explores essential PPE products offered by different suppliers, which retailers should carry and recommend to DIY enthusiasts. 

G.Fox 

GLOVES 

For DIY users, selecting the right type of gloves is crucial to ensure safety while working on various projects. Here are some suitable glove types and options:  

TYPES AND APPLICATIONS:

RESPIRATOR AND DUST MASKS 

Selecting the appropriate respirator or dust mask is indeed crucial for DIY projects to protect against inhaling harmful particles. Here are some available options and their features:  

1. N95 Respirator: N95 respirators are widely used for protection against airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and infectious agents like viruses.

2. Disposable Dust Mask: Disposable dust masks, also known as particulate respirators, are lightweight and affordable options for DIY users. Disposable dust masks are available in various filtration levels, including N95, N99, and N100.  

3. Half-Face Respirator: Half-face respirators cover the nose and mouth and provide a tighter seal compared to disposable dust masks. Half-face respirators are reusable and offer customisable protection by choosing the appropriate filters based on the specific hazards of the task.  

When selecting a respirator or dust mask for DIY projects, it’s essential to consider factors such as the level of filtration needed, comfort, fit, and the specific hazards involved in the task.  

EYE PROTECTION 

Retailers should recommend a variety of eye protection products to cater to the diverse needs of DIY users.  

Here are some recommended options:  

1. Safety Glasses: Safety glasses are a basic and essential form of eye protection for DIY activities. They are lightweight, comfortable to wear, and offer protection against flying debris, dust, and impact from tools.  

2. Over-Glasses Safety Goggles: For individuals who wear prescription glasses, over-glasses safety goggles are an excellent choice. These goggles are designed to fit over regular glasses, providing an additional layer of protection without compromising comfort or vision.  

HEARING PROTECTION 

Retailers can offer a variety of hearing protection options to DIY enthusiasts working with power tools to help prevent long-term hearing damage. Here are some options:  

1. Earplugs: Earplugs are small, disposable devices that are inserted into the ear canal to block out noise. They are lightweight, portable, and comfortable to wear, making them ideal for DIY users who need hearing protection while working with power tools.  

2. Electronic Hearing Protectors: Electronic hearing protectors combine the benefits of earplugs or earmuffs with advanced technology to enhance hearing protection while still allowing users to hear ambient sounds, such as speech or warning signals. These devices use built-in microphones to amplify low-level sounds while reducing loud noises to safe levels.  

3. Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Noise-cancelling headphones are designed to reduce ambient noise by emitting sound waves that cancel out incoming noise. It’s essential for retailers to educate customers about the importance of wearing hearing protection while working with power tools and to recommend options that provide adequate protection based on the noise levels involved in the task.  

HEAD PROTECTION 

Retailers should recommend head protection options that provide adequate protection against potential hazards such as falling objects, impacts from overhead work, or accidental bumps.  These are head protection options retailers can recommend:  

1. Hard Hats: Hard hats are the most common form of head protection and are designed to protect against impacts from falling objects or overhead hazards.  

2. Bump Caps: Bump caps are lightweight head protection devices designed to protect against minor bumps and scrapes rather than impacts from falling objects. They feature a hard plastic shell or foam padding to cushion the head and are suitable for DIY users working in environments where the risk of head injury is low but still present 

3. Baseball Caps with Protective Inserts: Some DIY enthusiasts may prefer a more casual or lightweight option for head protection. Retailers can recommend baseball caps or hats with protective inserts made of impact-resistant materials such as ABS plastic or foam.  

FOOTWEAR 

Selecting the right footwear is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to ensure safety and prevent injuries from falling objects, sharp materials, or heavy tools. Here are several available footwear options:  

1. Steel-Toe Boots: Steel-toe boots are a popular choice for DIY users working in environments where there is a risk of heavy objects or tools falling on feet. Steel-toe boots are durable, offer excellent protection, and are suitable for a wide range of DIY projects, including construction, woodworking, and landscaping.  

2. Safety Sneakers: Safety sneakers combine the comfort and style of athletic shoes with the protective features of safety footwear. They feature a reinforced toe cap and a slip-resistant sole, providing protection against impacts, punctures, and slips. Safety sneakers are ideal for DIY users who require both safety and comfort during projects that involve light to moderate physical activity.  

3. Rubber Boots: Rubber boots, also known as Wellington boots or rain boots, are waterproof footwear made of rubber or other synthetic materials. They offer protection against water, mud, chemicals, and other liquids, making them suitable for DIY projects that involve gardening, painting, or working in wet or muddy conditions.  

Some rubber boots also feature steel or composite toe caps for added protection. When recommending footwear options, retailers should consider factors such as the specific hazards involved in the DIY projects.  

APRONS and COVERALLS 

 Retailers can stock a variety of aprons and coveralls to DIY enthusiasts, protecting their clothing from spills, chemicals, and other project hazards. These include: 

1. Chemical-Resistant Aprons: For DIY projects that involve working with hazardous chemicals or liquids, retailers can recommend chemical-resistant aprons made of materials such as PVC, vinyl, or polyethylene. These aprons provide protection against splashes, spills, and contact with corrosive substances. 

2. Disposable Aprons: Disposable aprons are convenient options for DIY users who require temporary protection against spills and contaminants.  Disposable aprons are affordable, easy to put on and take off, and are suitable for tasks that involve painting, cleaning, or handling messy materials.  

3. Disposable Coveralls: Disposable coveralls are made of a unique nonwoven material that is lightweight, breathable, and resistant to liquids and particles. They provide excellent coverage without restricting movement and therefore protect against dust, dirt, and light splashes, making them suitable for DIY projects that involve light-duty tasks such as spray painting or working in dusty environments.  

Agrinet 

GLOVES 

1. SKUDO GLOVES BUILDERS BLACK 350MM 

The black builders’ gloves are 35cm in length and are latex industrial gloves that are very versatile. The gloves’ textured grip provides a good grip in wet or dry environments. These can be used in many applications for light hand protection from liquids and debris. 

2. SKUDO GLOVES CANDYSTRIPE CHROME LEATHER 50MM 

The chrome leather reinforced palm leather gloves are made of cow split leather, with a canvass back and cotton canvass safety cuff. They are available in grey and candy stripe. 

3. SKUDO GLOVES FULLY DIPPED KNITTED WRIST 

The fully dipped knitted wrist Comarex latex yellow gloves are latex coated canvas cuff 27cm in length. The gloves can be used in areas such as construction; general handling; sheet metal handling; abrasive application and agriculture. 

REPRIRATORS AND DUST PROTECTORS 

1. SKUDO RESPIRATIOR BALBOA SINGLE 

The single half mask respirator is designed to protect the user’s respiratory system from breathing in hazards of dangerous gases and particulates. The respirator is designed to hold a single cartridge. 

EYE PROTECTION 

1. SKUDO SAFETY GLASSES SPOGGLE + ELASTIC BAND AMBER 

Skyvex spoggle dual arm pieces with amber lens are a dual-purpose spectacle and goggle all in one integrated Rx insert and foam holder. The wrap around foam insert made of long-life span material. These are generally used for protection against impact and dusty areas and are suitable for use in construction; mining; milling; engineering workshops; factories; warehouses and general industries. 

2. SKUDO SAFETY GOGGLES DIRECT VENT ANTI SCRATCH 

Grinding Goggles are soft; flexible PVC frame with a thickness of 1.8m optical class 1 shade scale number 2c-1.2 mechanical strength which provides comfort; fit and seal; direct ventilation in goggle frame. They have a wide vision polycarbonate lens. 

HEARING PROTECTION 

1. SKUDO EARMUFF UNIVERSAL 

 Earmuffs work to block out noise by completely covering the outer ear. 

2. SKUDO EARPLUG NEON CORDED DISPOSABLE 

Tyson Disposable Corded Earplugs: Non-irritating; non allergenic; self-adjusting foam; individually packed in marked; sealed plastic bags. 

3. SKUDO EARPLUG SONIC CORDED REUSABLE 

Disposable; Non-Irritating: Non allergenic; self-adjusting foam; individually packed in marked; sealed plastic bags. 

HEAD PROTECTION 

STRIKE-ARC AUTO DARKENING HELMET BLACK 

The SA350 Auto-Darkening Welding Sa Auto Darkening Welding Helmet with anti-splatter lens is110x90x9mm.  The response time from Bright to Dark is ≤15000 seconds under normal temperature conditions).  

STRIKE-ARC AUTO DARKENING HELMET WTH GRINDING FUNCTION 

This helmet has a durable fire-retardant material, high-definition protective filter to view welding conditions clearly when welding; activated the moment you start work. This product adopts advanced circuit design: when striking the arc, the observing window darkens immediately, offering permanent UV/IR protection. Fashionable appearance.  

FOOTWEAR 

1. Bata Atlantic Safety Boot 

The Unisex steel toe cap safety boot is suitable for agricultural, construction, engineering, and general-purpose use. and is available from size 5 to 12. 

2. BOVA CHELSEA BROWN SAFETY BOOT STC 

This boot has been engineered to provide the wearer with protection in an array of harsh conditions. While these are typical to outdoor terrains such as agriculture, this boot can be used between the office and on-site.  

3. LEMAITRE CONCORDE BOOT BROWN STC 

The Concorde boot forms part of the parabolic range. The thick PU midsole and deep cleats offer dispersion of pressure and extra comfort for feet while the parabolic curve adds spring by absorbing the wearers mass.  

APRONS and COVERALLS  

STRIKE-ARC WELDING LEATHER APRON 90X60CM 

Leather welding apron for the protection of the operator and his clothing.  
This chrome leather welding apron is suitable for the protection of the operator and his clothing. Fits comfortably around the neck with buckle fastener at the back. Size: 90cm X 60cm. Offers protection against radiant heat, welding spatter and the general body. 

STRIKE-ARC WELDING SKULL CAP 

For protection of the head and neck during welding skullcaps are worn under the helmet for additional head and neck protection.It offers good absorption of excess moisture. It is ideal for mig and electrical welding. 

Ingco 

GLOVES 

INGCO Cut Resistant Gloves (HGCG02-XL) 

The INGCO Cut Resistant Gloves (HGCG02-XL) are designed for tasks such as glass cutting, timber work, and handling heavy or sharp objects.  

Featuring a PU-coated palm, they provide both flexibility and a comfortable grip, enhancing user comfort and control.  

Designed with a High-Strength Polyethylene Material shell, these gloves offer added protection against cuts and abrasions. Additionally, they also boast static resistance, making them suitable for various industrial and manual tasks where safety is top priority 

INGCO Nitrile Gloves (HGNG01) 

INGCO Nitrile gloves offer versatile protection against cuts, abrasions, and chemicals, safeguarding the skin during various tasks.  

Their high resistance ensures reliable defence against oils, splashed chemicals, bases, solvents, and more. 

Ideal for industrial applications, these safety work gloves are tailored for multi-purpose use, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial tasks as well as gardening activities. 

INGCO PVC Gloves (HGVP01 AND HGVP03) 

INGCO PVC Gloves – Designed with gardening and cleaning tasks in mind. Made from high-quality PVC, these gloves prioritise safety while providing durability and prolonged use. 

INGCO Leather Gloves (HGVC01) 

The INGCO Leather Gloves (HGVC01) are crafted with premium leather, offering durability and protection for a variety of tasks such as handing rough materials, construction work, or general-purpose labour. 

These gloves provide a reliable barrier against abrasions and cuts while ensuring a comfortable fit. 

EYE PROTECTION 

INGCO Safety Goggles (HSG08) 

The INGCO Safety Goggles (HSG08) are specifically designed for industrial use, providing reliable protection for the eyes.  

With a dark shade 9 lens, they shield against bright light and glare, ensuring optimal visibility in various working conditions. They boast a wide visual field, allowing users to maintain awareness of their surroundings while working.  

Additionally, equipped with both indoor and outdoor lenses, they offer versatility for use in different environments.  

The INGCO Safety Goggles (HSG08) are an essential safety accessory for industrial settings, prioritising both protection and comfort for the wearer. 

Matus 

Gloves: 

Gloves are vital in protecting hands from chemicals, sharp objects, and other potential hazards. Retailers should stock the following types and sizes suitable for the DIY user-  

WAN0122: GLOVE MATSAFE CRAYFISH KNIT R/PALM  

WAN0090PM: GLOVE MATSAFE CHROME/L C/ST 50MM  

WAN0095: GLOVE MATSAFE CHROME/L REINF 50MM  

WAN0160PM: GLOVE MATSAFE YELLOW CANDY STRIPE  

WAN0133: GLOVE MATSAFE NINJA FOAM 

WAN0135: GLOVE MATSAFE NINJA SANDY. 

Respirators and Dust Masks: 

Selecting the right respirator or dust mask is essential to protect against inhaling harmful particles during DIY projects.   

DOR1500: MASK DUST MATSAFE FFP1 P/20 BOX IND 

DOR1512: MASK DUST MATSAFE FFP2 P/20 BOX MINE 

COM1000: RESPIRATOR DOUBLE WITHOUT FILTER 744D 

COM1010: RESPIRATOR SINGLE WITHOUT FILTER 743S 

COM1050: RESPIRATOR SPARE FILTER DUST D2 P/2 

COM1060: RESPIRATOR SPARE FILTER PAINT A1 P/2. 

Eye Protection: 

Protecting the eyes is paramount during DIY activities to prevent injuries from flying debris, chemicals, or tools. Recommended eye protection includes: 

DOR1180: SPECTACLE MATSAFE CLEAR BLACK FRAME EN 

DOR1185:  SPECTACLE MATSAFE CLEAR WRAP AROUND EN 

DOR1190: SPECTACLE MATSAFE TINT BLACK FRAME EN 

DOR1196: SPECTACLE MATSAFE BLK/RED DUAL FR SMOKED 

DOR1210: SPECTACLE MATSAFE SPORTY CLEAR ECONOMY 

DOR1220:  SPECTACLE MATSAFE SPORTY AMBER ECONOMY 

DOR1230: SPECTACLE MATSAFE SPORTY SMOKED ECONOMY 

WAN0340: GOGGLE WAN MONA CLEAR WV221. 

Hearing Protection: 

DOR1100: EARMUFF MATSAFE BLACK CUP 29dB 

DOR1120: EARPLUG MATSAFE CORDED  32dB 

DOR1150: EARPLUG MATSAFE PU-FOAM CORD 34dB 

DOR1160: EARPLUG MATSAFE PU-FOAM UNCORD 34dB. 

Head Protection: 

RHN0035: HAT HARDHAT BLUE SABS 

RHN0036: HAT HARDHAT GREEN SABS 

RHN0037, HAT HARDHAT RED SABS 

RHN0038: HAT HARDHAT WHITE SABS 

RHN0039: HAT HARDHAT YELLOW SABS 

RHN0040: HAT HARDHAT ORANGE SABS 

RHN0041: HAT HARDHAT PINK SABS. 

Footwear:  

Claw Footwear is covered by a 12-month warranty. All factory faults returned in the first two months will be replaced or credited in full. 

Thereafter a pro rate credit will apply following calculation 12-month minus time worn. 

Warranty is void if boots are not cleaned and polished regularly or exposed to water, high heat, or harmful chemicals. 

WAY0003: SAFETY BOOTS CLAW MOJO STC BLACK S03 

WAY0004: SAFETY BOOTS CLAW MOJO STC BLACK S04 

WAY0005: SAFETY BOOTS CLAW MOJO STC BLACK S05