There are many construction workers in the United States. According to Statista, there were about 10.2 million construction workers in the United States as of 2019. With so many people working in such a physically demanding industry, it's no surprise that on-the-job injuries are common. Of course, not all on-the-job injuries can be prevented. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk, including wearing the proper work apparel. But how do you make sure your work apparel is safe? Here are a few tips.

1. Look for the Right Labels

When shopping for work apparel, it's important to look for items certified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). ANSI is a nonprofit organization that develops voluntary standards for products, services, and systems in the United States. Items that have been certified by ANSI must meet certain safety requirements. If you can't find an ANSI label on a piece of work apparel, that doesn't necessarily mean it's not safe. However, it's always best to err on the side of caution and choose items that have been certified by ANSI.

2. Find the Right Fit

Another important factor to consider when choosing work apparel is the fit. It's important to ensure that any clothing you wear, including your safety toe work boots, fits properly. Anything too big or too small can be dangerous. For example, if your work boots are too big, they could slip off while you're working and cause you to trip and fall. Similarly, if your sleeves or pant legs are too long and loose, they could get caught causing injury. In addition to ensuring your work apparel fits properly, you should also ensure it's comfortable. After all, you're going to be wearing it for long periods.

3. Pick Work Apparel Meant for the Task

Not all work apparel is created equal. Some items are better suited for certain tasks than others. For example, if you're working with electrical equipment, you'll need to wear non-conductive clothing and gloves. Similarly, if you're working in an area where you could drop something heavy on your toes, you'll need to make sure you're wearing safety toe work boots. Make sure you choose work apparel that is meant for the task at hand, and that will protect you from the hazards you're likely to encounter.

These are just a few tips to help you make sure your work apparel is safe. Remember, safety should always be your number one priority when working. If you have any questions about what type of work apparel is right for you, be sure to ask your supervisor or safety officer. Further, don't forget to check the labels. Are you looking for high-quality safety toe work boots? Call A5 Western today to learn more about our products.