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Low-quality plastics lack proper strength, durability, and resistance to stress or chemicals.
This often results from inadequate manufacturing processes, the use of substandard raw materials, or poor quality control.
These plastics may contain impurities that weaken their structure over time. Some also degrade under exposure to heat or UV light.
For protective gear, such deficiencies can lead to brittleness and breakage under pressure. And they can fail when reliable performance is critical for safety.
Here’s a closer look at the risks of using low-quality plastics in workplace safety gear – followed by a word about the potential legal implications.
Reduced Safeguarding Against Falling Objects or Impact Injuries
Protective gear made with low-quality plastic often lacks the structural integrity to absorb heavy impacts. When helmets, shields, and other equipment are crafted from brittle or improperly processed materials, they can crack, split, or fail entirely under stress.
This failure increases the risk of serious injuries like concussions, skull fractures, or broken bones – in situations involving falling tools or debris.
It’s like relying on a paper-thin umbrella during a storm – when the pressure builds up, it collapses when you need it most.
Increased Risk of Chemical Burns
Low-quality plastics often fail to resist exposure to chemicals, leading to dangerous reactions.
Protective gear like gloves or suits made from substandard materials can break down when exposed to harsh substances, allowing chemicals to seep through and contact the skin.
For example, a cheap glove might crack or develop small tears under stress, leaving workers vulnerable to burns caused by acids or solvents.
Poor-quality plastic creates a gap in protection, turning what should be safety equipment into a liability for severe chemical injuries.
Elevated Risk of Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions
Subpar plastics in protective gear can contain harmful additives, such as dyes, stabilizers, or plasticizers. These substances may leach out during use, especially under heat or moisture exposure.
Workers wearing this low-quality gear risk developing skin irritations like rashes, redness, or even blisters from direct contact with these chemicals.
In some cases, individuals with sensitive skin might experience allergic reactions triggered by unknown compounds present in the material.
Instead of shielding workers’ bodies, poor materials can actively harm them over time.
Higher Likelihood of Lacerations or Cuts from Gear Failure
Low-quality plastic lacks the toughness needed to withstand sharp edges, rough surfaces, or heavy strain.
When gloves, helmets, or face shields are made with substandard materials, they are prone to cracking or splitting under pressure. This exposes workers directly to hazards like metal shards, glass splinters, or sharp tools.
Poor plastics turn safety equipment into an unreliable shield against workplace injuries like cuts and lacerations.
The Legal Implications of Using Low-Quality Plastics
When low-quality protective gear fails, companies face serious legal consequences. Employers, manufacturers, suppliers, and others are responsible for providing safe equipment. Negligence in sourcing reliable materials can lead to liability claims.
For instance, an employee could sue for a chemical burn injury if the negligence of another party (such as an employer or manufacturer) causes grave injury or loss. Lawsuits can help injured employees (and sometimes their families) gain compensation for things like medical bills and lost wages.
So, failing to ensure proper safety standards by not using quality gear made from reputable vendors in the plastics industry risks not just worker harm but also financial and reputational damage to businesses.
The Bottom Line
Prioritize high-quality plastics in safety gear to prevent injuries and legal risks.
Substandard materials jeopardize worker health, violate trust, and expose businesses to lawsuits.
Investing in quality is always the safer choice.