The Safety Gear Nobody Wants to Wear—But Absolutely Should

In many workplaces, protective gear like hard hats and high-visibility vests are non-negotiable. Everyone wears them because they’re visible and enforced. But beyond those basics, there’s a whole category of personal protective equipment that gets overlooked or flat-out ignored—and that’s where the danger creeps in.

Skipping this gear doesn’t just violate safety policy. It gambles with your life.

Hearing Loss: The Quiet Threat

Prolonged exposure to noise doesn’t just cause ringing ears—it causes irreversible hearing loss.

“People say, ‘I’m used to the noise.’ That’s just the problem. You get used to it right before you lose it for good.” — Robin Postnikoff

Why workers skip it: “I’m fine. I can handle it.”

What they don’t realize: Noise-induced hearing loss builds gradually. You won’t notice the damage until it’s permanent.

Protection strategy: Always wear earplugs or earmuffs in noisy zones.

“Until you’ve experienced working deaf, you don’t realize how much you rely on sound cues to stay safe.” — Jeff Mulligan

Air Hazards: Breathing in the Problem

Many of the most dangerous workplace risks are airborne—and invisible.

“You can have the best systems and processes… But if people are not empowered or given permission to use them—they’ll always fall short.” — Dr. Johanna Pagonis

Common excuse: “It’s just a little dust.”

The reality: Inhaling dust, fumes, or vapors from chemicals can cause chronic illnesses like COPD, silicosis, or worse.

Your move: Properly fit and wear a respirator any time the air quality is compromised.

“My eyes are burning. My lungs are burning. And I’m just like, we need to go. And then I see outside, there’s a sign: ‘Respiratory protection required.’ And I’m like, none of you are paying attention to this.” — Sarah Anderson【70:0†Sarah Anderson – Interview.docx】

Hand Protection: More Than Skin Deep

Gloves might seem like overkill for small tasks, but one slip-up can change everything.

“Until you actually try a skillset, you don’t really understand what it’s like… You don’t really get it.” — Robin Postnikoff

Why they’re ditched: “I need better feel for the tools.”

The danger: Cuts, burns, or chemical exposure can lead to nerve damage, infection, or permanent disability.

Smart approach: Choose gloves that balance protection and dexterity for the task at hand.

“I used to work with guys who’d take off their gloves for precision. Now a few of them can’t hold a coffee cup.” — Allan James Moore

Eye Injuries: One Split-Second Mistake

One moment without goggles is all it takes for debris, sparks, or fluids to do permanent damage.

Top reason for non-use: “They fog up and get in the way.”

The truth: Eye trauma is one of the most common workplace injuries—and one of the most preventable.

Solution: Invest in comfortable, anti-fog, impact-rated eye protection.

“You can have the best day of your career and still lose an eye in a second. Is that worth the foggy lenses?” — Jeff Mulligan

Fall Arrest Systems: Safety from the Top Down

Falls are still a leading cause of workplace fatalities, and overconfidence is often to blame.

Why people skip it: “I’ve done this hundreds of times.”

Reality check: All it takes is one slip.

The right call: Use full-body harnesses, lifelines, and anchor points every single time.

“He gave a talk on fall protection that morning. The next day, he skipped his own advice, fell, and was gone.” — Jeff Mulligan

“Gravity doesn’t care how many years of experience you have.” — Carolynne Heron

Protective Clothing: The Body Armor of Industry

Flame-resistant gear, cut-proof fabrics, chemical-resistant suits—they all exist to prevent catastrophic injuries.

Why people resist: “It’s bulky and hot.”

The risk: Without the right apparel, a minor incident can become a major medical emergency.

Best bet: Wear the gear that matches the specific hazards of your environment.

“We used to joke about the suits. Until one day a guy didn’t wear his. He still can’t joke about anything.” — Jeremy Desilets

Final Reminder: Use It or Lose Everything

The point of PPE isn’t just compliance—it’s protection. Skipping it doesn’t make you experienced. It makes you vulnerable.

“It’s not the equipment. It’s about inclusion. Respect. Making people care enough to protect each other—and themselves.” — Jeff Mulligan

It takes a second to strap in, put on, or plug in. That second might be the one that saves your life.

Wear your PPE. No exceptions. No excuses.