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

Hard hat (EN 397)

R90 ÷ 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

R150 ÷ replace every 2 years. Replace visor when scratched.

Disposable foam ear plugs (per pair)

R3 × 1 pair/day × ~250 working days

Ear defenders (EN 352)

Replace annually - degraded foam and headband lose attenuation over time

Custom moulded ear plugs

R800 ÷ replace every 2-3 years

FFP2 disposable masks

R10 × 1.5 masks/day × ~250 days. Replace when damaged, wet, or after each dusty shift.

FFP3 disposable masks (silica / hazardous dust work)

R30 × 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)

R150/pair × replace monthly = R1,800/year

Face fit test (per person)

R600 ÷ repeat every 3 years or if face shape changes (weight change, dental work)

General purpose gloves

R35/pair × replace monthly = R420/year

Cut-resistant gloves (Level 5)

R90/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)

R650 × replace every 6-12 months depending on wear

Safety trainers (S1P rated)

R500 × 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

R250 × replace every 6 months (reusable) or per use (disposable Type 5/6)

Knee pads (trades)

R200 × replace every 6-12 months

Full body harness (EN 361)

R900 ÷ replace every 5 years max, or immediately after any fall arrest. Inspect every 6 months.

Shock-absorbing lanyard (EN 355)

R450 ÷ replace every 5 years, or immediately if deployed in a fall

Harness competent-person inspection

R200 × 2 times/year. Required every 6 months by a competent person.