How wearing the correct workwear keeps you safe on Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night is quickly coming around and it is important to stay safe.

According to Crisis-response, “Fire and recue services throughout the UK are called to attend 50% more fire emergencies on and around November 5 than any other night of the year, while every year around 1,000 people visit emergency departments with a firework-related injury in the four weeks running up (to Bonfire Night).”

With tens of millions of people attending Bonfire Night events, safety is paramount. How can risk be prevented with the correct clothing? This blog post explains.

Is safety taken seriously on Bonfire Night?

Research has found that when asked about common priorities by hosts of Bonfire Night events, only 32% said they would prioritise the safety of guests and property.

Ian Carr, VP of EMEA, Intermedix comments, “Twenty million people will be attending bonfires (during the week of Bonfire Night), yet only a third of those hosting bonfires will be prioritising safety. As such, the council, fire brigade and ambulance services have to get it right.”

What to wear to stay safe on Bonfire Night?

Spectators

Bonfire Night takes place at one of the coldest times of the year. This means that wearing warm clothes, such as scarfs and coats is essential to enjoying yourself on Bonfire Night.

As well as staying warm, it is vital that the spectators are safe from injury. The UKFR states that when using sparklers it is imperative that gloves are worn. Thinsulate Gloves are ideal.

Equipment Handlers

When it comes to uniforms for firework operatives and other equipment handlers, the level of protection required is significantly enhanced.

Fireworks are explosives and whilst in most cases are perfectly safe when set up and fired correctly, there is always a chance that something may go wrong. It is also important to stress that by their nature firework displays in small spaces such as back gardens are more dangerous. Therefore, it is particularly important the safety gear is used.

The following applies to people lighting fireworks by hand, opposed to using a remote firing system:

Eyes: It is essential to wear safety goggles when handling and lighting fireworks to prevent debris from entering the eyes.

Head: A professional safety helmet is strongly recommended to protect the head. At the very least some form of cap should be worn.

Body: If a firework goes badly wrong, the operative could be hit by a projectile. The minimum that should be worn here to protect from impact is a big coat. Arms and legs must be covered. It is also recommended that Hi Vis is worn in order to make the operative stand out.

Ears: Fireworks can make a lot of noise, so it is important to wear ear protection. Depending on the display, disposable ear plugs or something more substantial may be required.

Hands: When lighting fuses there is the possibility of burns to fingers meaning some form of glove is required. Thicker gloves may be recommended where possible, but ultimately if a lot of movement is required as part of the lighting process then thinner gloves may have to suffice.

Feet: Sturdy safety boots with steel toe caps are recommended for use as a firework operative to protect the feet. Consider the land that is being used, as it may be that wellies are needed.

Stewards / Staff

At larger events, staff may be used to manage the crowd. There are three things to consider here.

• Warmth: Stay insulated by choosing a well-designed jacket or coat. The Black Soft Shell Jacket consists of three layer fabric to maintain heat.
• Visibility: As each event steward has a job role and it is likely to be customer-facing, it is important to wear something visible. High visibility clothing, such as the hi vis body warmer, is ideal for attracting attention.
• Brand Identity: To be recognised as a member of staff, and also to assist with the marketing of the employer/establishment, clothing can be branded with the organisation’s logo in order to ensure the staff member stands out. Find out more about Sugdes embroidery and personalisation services here.

Find Out More

For help in choosing the right workwear clothing choices for your firework or bonfire display call Sugdens on 01924 375951. Alternatively, contact us here