Great Bend-based Fuller Industries Inc. is reminding employees about the importance of safe attire in a new training initiative for the month of September, focusing on proper clothing, footwear, and personal protective equipment (PPE). The training, titled “Toolbox Talk: Safe Clothing in Manufacturing,” addresses safety precautions as weather and temperatures change.
“As temperatures shift, it’s important that employees continue to dress safely while staying comfortable,” said Bree Husted, environmental health and safety assistant for the longtime commercial cleaning product maker. “Clothing, footwear, and personal protective equipment must be appropriate for both the environment and the tasks at hand.”
The training, recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, outlines key safety guidelines for employees working around chemicals, robotics, and machines. Employees are advised to wear snug-fitting clothing and to avoid loose sleeves, hood strings, or baggy pants that could be caught in equipment. Jewelry such as rings, necklaces, and bracelets should not be worn, and long hair must be tied back.
For chemical safety, the company reminds employees to always wear lab coats, aprons, or other chemical-resistant clothing when handling hazardous materials. Employees are also instructed to check protective gear for holes or tears before each shift and to change immediately if clothing becomes contaminated.
Regarding footwear, the company emphasizes a strict policy of closed-toe, slip-resistant shoes. Steel-toe boots are required in designated areas, and sandals, open-toe shoes, or fabric sneakers are strictly prohibited around chemicals.
The training also encourages employees to be prepared with a backup set of clothing and shoes in case of a chemical spill or other contamination, storing them in a clean, dry place. The training reinforces the message that while PPE is the last line of defense, proper clothing is the first. Employees are encouraged to check their clothing and PPE and to ensure they have backup clothes and shoes. They are also reminded that when in doubt, they should ask their supervisor.
