Protective Equipment in the Trades: What is Mandatory and What is Recommended?
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Protective Equipment in the Trades: What is Mandatory?
In the trades, risks are part of everyday working life. Whether wood dust, metal shavings, noise or chemicals – working without protective equipment risks serious injury. This guide explains which PPE is legally required in the trades and what is additionally recommended.
Legal Basis: PPE in the Trades
- Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG) – foundation for all protective measures at work
- PPE Use Regulation (PSA-BV) – governs the provision and use of PPE
- PPE Regulation 2016/425/EU – European standard for manufacturing and certification
- DGUV Regulations – trade association rules by profession
The Most Important Protective Equipment
1. Eye Protection
Splinters, dust and splashes endanger eyes in almost every trade activity. A CE-certified safety goggle according to EN 166 is mandatory for: grinding, milling, drilling, sawing; working with chemicals; painting and spraying; welding and cutting.
2. Respiratory Protection
- FFP2 mask – for wood dust, fine dust, general dust work
- FFP3 mask – for carcinogenic dusts (e.g. hardwood dust, asbestos)
- Type IIR surgical mask – for hygienic work areas and light dust exposure
3. Hearing Protection
Hearing protection is mandatory at noise levels above 85 dB(A) – especially for carpenters, joiners, metalworkers and floor layers.
4. Hand Protection
Protective gloves protect against cuts, chemicals and heat.
5. Foot Protection
Safety shoes (S1, S2 or S3) are mandatory on construction sites – with steel toe caps and non-slip soles.
Which Safety Goggle for Which Trade?
| Profession / Activity | Recommended Goggle | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Carpenter / Joiner | Classic safety goggle | EN 166 |
| Painter / Decorator | Full vision goggle | EN 166 |
| Metal fabricator | Classic safety goggle | EN 166 |
| Roofer (outdoor) | Tinted safety goggle | EN 166 + EN 172 |
| Tiler | Classic safety goggle | EN 166 |
| Electrician | Classic safety goggle | EN 166 |
Common Mistakes with PPE
- Not wearing PPE or wearing it rarely
- Wrong PPE for the activity
- Continuing to use damaged PPE
- Not checking certification – only CE-marked PPE provides reliable protection
Conclusion
Our safety goggles and respiratory masks from Kela Schutzartikel are CE certified, Made in Germany and suitable for professional use in the trades.