Safety and Protection,
PPE, Clothing, Footwear, Safety
for individuals and the environment

The EN 388 standard certifies protection against mechanical risks. On the glove, there is a pictogram followed by four or five numbers/letters that indicate, in order: abrasion resistance, cut resistance (coup test), tear resistance, and puncture resistance. A higher value indicates greater protection. With the update of the standard, a letter (from A to F) is often added to indicate cut resistance according to the TDM method, which is more accurate for modern blades. Choosing the correct glove means balancing mechanical protection and the manual dexterity required by the task.

The choice between S1P and S3 footwear depends on the work environment. Both offer a protective toe cap and an anti-perforation midsole, but S3 shoes feature a water-repellent upper that prevents the absorption of water and liquids. S1P shoes are ideal for dry environments, warehouses, and logistics due to their increased breathability. S3 shoes, however, are mandatory for those who work outdoors, on construction sites, or in the presence of humidity and hydrocarbons, ensuring dry feet and structural protection in adverse weather conditions or wet flooring.

Safety signs follow a standardized color code (ISO 7010 and Italian Legislative Decree 81/08): Red indicates prohibition or fire-fighting equipment; Yellow/Orange indicates warning and danger; Blue indicates a mandatory action (e.g., "Wear PPE"); Green identifies emergency exits, escape routes, and first aid stations. Correct signage must be placed at eye level and in highly visible locations, ensuring immediate and universal communication that allows workers and visitors to react appropriately in emergency or dangerous situations.

Category III PPE are devices intended to protect workers from very serious, permanent or fatal risks. This category includes respiratory protection (FFP2/FFP3 masks), fall arrest harnesses, and protection devices against electric arc. Due to their criticality, the use of this PPE mandatorily requires specific training and practical instruction (not just theoretical). Their maintenance and periodic overhaul are fundamental steps to ensure that the device maintains its life-saving protective capacity unaltered over time.

Floor markings are essential for regulating the coexistence of pedestrians and forklifts. Effective design involves clearly demarcating pedestrian thoroughfares, storage areas, and vehicle maneuvering zones. The use of wear-resistant paints or high-strength industrial adhesives reduces the need for maintenance. Integrating floor markings with parabolic mirrors at intersections and physical protective barriers increases the level of safety, minimizing the risk of collisions and optimizing the ergonomics of internal logistics flows.