Why Equipment Choice Matters for Health & Safety
Every piece of equipment used on site has the potential to either reduce or increase risk. Using unsuitable, poorly maintained, or outdated equipment can lead to unsafe workarounds, increased manual handlings and unnecessary exposure to hazards.
Selecting the right equipment from the outset helps:
- Reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries
- Support compliance with health and safety responsibilities
- Improve efficiency without compromising safety
- Create a safer working environment for all trades onsite
Safety doesn’t start with PPE, it starts with smarter equipment decisions.
Key Onsite Risks and the Equipment That Helps Reduce Them
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVs)
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVs) remains a significant health risk across the construction industry. Prolonged exposure to vibration from tools, including breakers and drills, can lead to long-term injury, reduced grip strength and circulation issues.
Using modern, well-maintained tools plays a key role in reducing vibration exposure. Hiring equipment from GAP ensures access to newer, fit-for-purpose tools designed to operate efficiently and within recommended vibration limits. Regular maintenance and inspection from our expert team also helps prevent excessive vibration caused by worn or faulty equipment.
Working at Height
Falls from height remain one of the leading causes for serious injury onsite. It is essential the right equipment is used for any work carried out above ground level.
GAP can provide a range of harnesses, fall arrest systems and access safety solutions that help protect operatives, reduce fall risk and support safe working at height practices.
Confined Spaces
Working in confined spaces presents a unique set of risks, including restricted movement, poor ventilation, and exposure to hazardous gases. These environments require specialist equipment to ensure work can be carried out safely.
Tripods, winches, gas detection equipment, and escape sets, all available from GAP, help control access, monitor conditions, and provide vital protection for operatives working in confined spaces.
General Site Safety
Everyday site activities also present safety challenges. Poorly maintained plant and tools can increase the risk of breakdowns, malfunctions, and unsafe working practices.
Hiring well-maintained, regularly inspected equipment helps ensure reliability onsite, reduces downtime and prevents the need for unsafe activities when equipment fails.
How GAP Supports Safer Sites
At GAP, safety is fundamental to everything we do. From the quality of our equipment to the expertise of our teams, we work alongside customers to support safer working environments.
With a nationwide network of depots, customers benefit from:
- Equipment that is thoroughly checked and maintained
- Expert advice to help select the right solution for the job
- Reliable hire equipment that supports safe working practices
We don’t just supply equipment, we help our customers make informed decisions that directly contribute to safer sites.
Safer Sites Start With Smarter Choices
Safer sites don’t happen by accident. They’re the result of careful planning, informed decisions and the right equipment choices.
By utilising reliable hire equipment and working with an experienced hire partner, you can reduce risk, support health and safety responsibilities, and create working environments where people can operate with confidence.
Contact us to find out how GAP can support health and safety on your site.
