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

Hard hat (AS/NZS 1801)

A$18 ÷ replace every 3 years (check the date stamp). Replace immediately after any impact.

Bump cap

Replace annually

Hard hat brim / chin strap

Replace annually or when worn

Safety glasses (AS/NZS 1337)

Replace every 6 months — scratched lenses reduce protection and visibility

Safety goggles (sealed, chemical splash)

Replace annually

Face shield

A$22 ÷ replace every 2 years. Replace the visor when scratched.

Disposable foam ear plugs (per pair)

60c × 1 pair/day × ~250 working days

Ear muffs (AS/NZS 1270)

Replace annually — degraded cushions and headband lose attenuation over time

Custom moulded ear plugs

A$90 ÷ replace every 2–3 years

P2 disposable masks (AS/NZS 1716)

A$3 × ~1.5 masks/day × ~250 days. Replace when damaged, wet, or after each dusty shift.

P2/P3 masks (silica / hazardous dust)

A$5 × 1/day × ~250 days. For concrete cutting, stonework, chasing — engineered stone has extra controls.

Half-face respirator (reusable, AS/NZS 1716)

Replace annually or when straps/valve degrade

P3 filter cartridges (pair)

A$18/pair × replace monthly = A$216/year

Respirator fit test (AS/NZS 1715, per person)

A$60 — required before relying on a tight-fitting respirator and repeated regularly (and if your face shape changes).

General purpose gloves

A$6/pair × replace monthly = A$72/year

Cut-resistant gloves (AS/NZS 2161, cut level 5)

A$12/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 (AS/NZS 2210, steel/composite toe)

A$95 × replace every 6–12 months depending on wear

Safety joggers (AS/NZS 2210)

A$70 × replace every 6–9 months

Safety gumboots (steel toe)

Replace annually or when the sole wears

Comfort insoles

Replace every 3–6 months

Hi-vis vest (AS/NZS 4602, day/night)

Replace when faded, torn, or soiled — hi-vis loses visibility when dirty

Hi-vis wet-weather jacket (AS/NZS 4602)

Replace annually or when the waterproofing fails

Sun protection (broad-brim, SPF 50+, sunnies)

A$40 × restocked through the year — UV is a real WHS hazard on site

Coveralls / overalls

A$35 × replace every 6 months (reusable) or per use (disposable)

Knee pads (trades)

A$25 × replace every 6–12 months

Full body harness (AS/NZS 1891)

A$110 ÷ replace per the maker's life (and immediately after any fall arrest). Inspect every 6 months.

Shock-absorbing lanyard (AS/NZS 1891)

A$60 ÷ replace per the maker's life, or immediately if deployed in a fall

Harness competent-person inspection

A$20 × 2 times/year. Inspect every 6 months by a competent person.