Workplace safety is the the combined responsibility of both employers and employees. While employers are mandated to provide effective training, it’s up to the employees to follow their employer’s guidelines.

An integral aspect of implementing safety measures is to wear the appropriate workwear. Depending on the type of job and workplace conditions, this may include hearing protection as well as protective, high visibility workwear and gear.

When you work on a construction or other site where you are exposed to consistent noise, it’s important to wear earplugs or another type of hearing protection. If earplugs fit properly, they have been shown to provide a reduction of noise between 15 to 30 decibels. This may make a significant difference with avoiding permanent hearing loss.

The NIOSH states that in addition to being distracting, noise can also prevent you from hearing important warnings. When you’re subjected to loud noise over a period of time, the nerves within your inner ears can be damaged beyond repair. In other words, you could experience hearing loss in one or both ears.

Since permanent hearing loss can occur by being exposed to sounds louder than 85 decibels, The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that workers should not exceed eight hours of exposure when these levels are present.

In addition to providing hearing protection, it’s also important to wear the proper safety jackets for work. These are essential when working in areas with low visibility and/or inclement weather. When you wear high visibility safety jackets for work, their reflective surfaces increase your visibility to other workers and vehicles.

High visibility fleece jackets, for example, will be able to keep you warm despite the elements. Furthermore, when paired with safety work pants and other high visibility workwear, you will be taking measures to prevent accidents and injuries.

When you follow proper safety protocols and wear the right high visibility workwear, you are contributing to the safe completion of a job. While you take steps to protect your own personal safety, you are also helping to ensure the safety of your fellow workers.