Protecting People and the Planet: The Future of Sustainable Workplace Safety

Workplace safety has long been a priority for organisations, but today, businesses face the added challenge of aligning safety practices with sustainability goals. Poor safety practices not only jeopardise employee well-being but can also harm the environment. Finding ways to protect employees while safeguarding the planet is no longer optional; it’s essential.

Traditional workplace safety practices – while are effective at keeping workers safe – can sometimes harm the environment. But there are ways for organisations to keep workers safe and care for the planet at the same time. Let's explore avenues to align safety with sustainability.

The Environmental Cost of Poorly Executed Safety Practices

Even well-meaning safety measures can contribute to environmental issues when sustainability isn’t prioritised. Here’s how common practices create an ecological imbalance:

1. Disposable PPE and Inefficient Resource Use
Industries like healthcare and chemical manufacturing rely on disposable PPE—masks, gloves, and gowns—for safety. However, poor quality and misuse of PPE lead to replacing items too frequently due to poor training or unclear protocols, causing unnecessary waste and rising costs. Most of this PPE cannot be recycled or repurposed, resulting in a significant environmental impact through landfill accumulation or incineration. Smarter policies, targeted training, and matching PPE to actual risk levels can reduce waste and improve operational efficiency.

2. High Carbon Footprint in PPE
Many PPE products are made from petroleum-based materials and require energy-intensive manufacturing processes. This contributes to significant greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.

3. Improper Disposal of Hazardous Materials
Incorrect handling of hazardous workplace materials, including chemicals and bio-waste, leads to soil, water, and air contamination. Improper disposal not only harms ecosystems but also poses health risks to nearby communities.

What Are the Best Sustainable PPE Practices?

The integration of environmentally-conscious PPE and responsible workplace practices is key to achieving sustainable workplace safety. Here’s how businesses can make a meaningful impact:

1. Understanding Permeation and its Impact on Worker Safety
Switching to recyclable or biodegradable PPE is one of the most effective solutions. Manufacturers now offer options like biodegradable masks, gloves, and protective suits made from renewable materials. Businesses that choose such PPE solutions take a significant step toward long-term sustainability.

2. Reduce Waste with Reusable Options
Where appropriate, replace single-use items with reusable PPE alternatives. These solutions help reduce waste and deliver long-term cost savings, provided they remain safe for continued use. Examples include:

• Reusable masks with replaceable filters as an alternative to disposable medical masks.
• Gloves and aprons designed for multiple uses, provided they have not been contaminated or compromised by chemical exposure.

3. Implement Sustainable Workplace Practices
Going beyond PPE, organisations can adopt broader environmentally-friendly measures:

• Proper Hazard Disposal: Ensure hazardous waste, such as chemicals or bio-waste, is disposed of safely to avoid contamination.
• Waste Audits: Conduct audits to identify opportunities for waste reduction.
• Employee Training: Educate employees on the correct disposal and recycling of PPE to encourage environmentally-friendly behaviour.

These measures require initial effort but provide lasting benefits for the organisation and the planet.

4. Optimise Usage Through Smarter Inventory Management
Optimising inventory management practices can further reduce waste and promote sustainability:

• Reduce waste from overstocking or expired products by better forecasting and planning.
• Implement inventory rotation systems to maximise product lifespan and minimise unused or expired PPE.

5. Partake in PPE Recycling Programs
Engage in PPE recycling programs to promote a circular economy. One such initiative is Ansell’s RightCycle Program, which helps recycle used PPE. You can learn more and join the program here.

6. Collaborate with Sustainable Suppliers
Work with sustainable PPE suppliers to ensure your products meet high environmental standards. Here are some steps to consider:

• Vet suppliers for their environmental practices and certifications.
• Look for suppliers who disclose their carbon footprint, reduce water usage, or utilise renewable energy.
• Consider conducting lifecycle assessments (LCAs) of products to evaluate their long-term environmental impact and sustainability.