Work out what PPE this job actually needs, and what it'll cost.

Hard hat (EN 397)

£12 ÷ replace every 3–5 years. Replace immediately after any impact.

Bump cap

Replace annually

Hard hat chin strap

Replace annually or when worn

Safety glasses (EN 166)

Replace every 6 months — scratched lenses reduce protection and visibility

Safety goggles (sealed, chemical splash)

Replace annually

Face shield

£15 ÷ replace every 2 years. Replace visor when scratched.

Disposable foam ear plugs (per pair)

50p × 1 pair/day × ~250 working days

Ear defenders (EN 352)

Replace annually — degraded foam and headband lose attenuation over time

Custom moulded ear plugs

£60 ÷ replace every 2–3 years

FFP2 disposable masks

£2 × 1.5 masks/day × ~250 days. Replace when damaged, wet, or after each dusty shift.

FFP3 disposable masks (silica / hazardous dust work)

£4 × 1/day × ~250 days. Required for concrete cutting, stonework, chasing.

Half-face respirator (reusable)

Replace annually or when straps/valve degrade

P3 filter cartridges (pair)

£12/pair × replace monthly = £144/year

Face fit test (per person)

£50 ÷ repeat every 3 years or if face shape changes (weight change, dental work)

General purpose gloves

£5/pair × replace monthly = £60/year

Cut-resistant gloves (Level 5)

£10/pair × replace every 2–3 months

Chemical-resistant gloves

Replace as needed — inspect before each use for holes or cracking

Winter thermal gloves

Replace annually

Safety boots (S3 rated — steel/composite toe + midsole)

£65 × replace every 6–12 months depending on wear

Safety trainers (S1P rated)

£50 × replace every 6–9 months

Safety wellington boots (S5 rated)

Replace annually or when sole wears

Comfort insoles

Replace every 3–6 months

Hi-vis vest (EN 20471 Class 2)

Replace when faded, torn, or soiled — hi-vis loses visibility when dirty

Hi-vis waterproof jacket (EN 20471 Class 3)

Replace annually or when waterproofing fails

Disposable or reusable coveralls / overalls

£25 × replace every 6 months (reusable) or per use (disposable Type 5/6)

Knee pads (trades)

£20 × replace every 6–12 months

Full body harness (EN 361)

£80 ÷ replace every 5 years max, or immediately after any fall arrest. Inspect every 6 months.

Shock-absorbing lanyard (EN 355)

£40 ÷ replace every 5 years, or immediately if deployed in a fall

Harness competent-person inspection

£15 × 2 times/year. Required every 6 months by a competent person.