Scout's Toolbox Talks

How you store your personal protective equipment matters. Tossing it into the back of a truck or leaving it out in the sun shortens its life — and weakens your protection.

Why It Matters:

PPE exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, dust, or UV rays can degrade without showing obvious signs. That means you might be wearing gear that looks fine but fails when you need it most.

Key Points:

• Store PPE in a clean, dry location, away from direct sunlight and contaminants.
• Hard hats should be kept out of vehicle windows — heat and UV rays can weaken the plastic.
• Respirators should be stored in sealed bags or containers to avoid dust and moisture buildup.
• Gloves and protective clothing should be hung or folded according to manufacturer guidelines.
• Create a dedicated PPE storage area in the gang box, trailer, or tool room to keep gear organized and accessible.

✅ Take care of your PPE, and it will take care of you.

Ask the Crew:

• Are we storing our PPE correctly at the end of each shift?
• Do we need better storage solutions on-site to protect our gear?

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