Keeping Your Team Safe and Compliant
In any industrial or construction environment, personal protective equipment (PPE) is not a luxury—it is a legal requirement and a crucial safeguard for your team. In South Africa, the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act requires employers to provide appropriate and approved PPE to employees exposed to workplace hazards. But what many businesses overlook is that PPE needs to be correctly rated and certified to do its job effectively.
What Do PPE Ratings Actually Mean?
PPE ratings refer to a product’s ability to perform effectively under specific risks or hazards. These ratings are based on standards set by bodies like SANS (South African National Standards), EN (European Norms), and ANSI (American National Standards Institute). In South Africa, SANS-approved products are typically the gold standard, ensuring compliance with local safety regulations.
For example:
● Gloves are rated according to SANS/EN 388, which tests for abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture resistance. A glove rated 4543 offers high protection, with each digit reflecting a specific hazard score.
● Safety boots that meet SANS 20345 standards will have protective toe caps, slip resistance, and other features that enhance impact absorption.
● Eye protection must comply with SANS/EN 166, ensuring adequate resistance to impact, UV light, and chemical splashes.
Understanding these labels helps you make informed decisions, especially when different roles on-site require different levels of protection.
Why It Matters
Too often, companies provide generic PPE that may not be suitable for the actual job at hand. The result? Increased risk of injury, non-compliance with regulations, and unhappy employees. At AC Crampton, we do not just sell PPE; we help you choose the right protection for the right environment.
Our team understands the local standards, industry expectations, and legal obligations. Whether you need chemical-resistant gloves, high-visibility jackets, safety harnesses, or steel-capped boots, we will walk you through what each rating means and why it matters.
Safety, Compliance, and Confidence
Equipping your team with SANS-compliant PPE is more than a tick-box exercise. It demonstrates your commitment to safety, boosts morale, and ensures your business is compliant with the law. That is why we only stock trusted, certified brands and offer expert support with every order.
Because at AC Crampton, your team’s safety is our priority, and we are here to help you protect what matters most.