PPE Essentials for Travelling Safety Consultants

Overview

Travelling safety consultants often face a challenge, which is that different sites require different PPE. James from Risk Fluent shares what PPE he carries, why he chose each item, how much it costs, and where to buy it. This article is perfect for consultants who want to stay safe, smart, and site-ready without lugging around extra kit.

PPE Essentials for Travelling Safety Consultants

If you’re a safety consultant who visits different sites, it can be hard to know which PPE (personal protective equipment) you need. You don’t want to carry too much, but you also don’t want to be caught out.

I’m James from Risk Fluent. I’ve travelled across sites, tested out a lot of gear, and I’ve now found what works best for me. Here’s what I carry every day, and how I carry it.

1. Hard Hat with Hearing Protection

My pick: Cask Plasma Helmet (white) with attached hearing protection.

• Why this one? It fits well, has a chin strap (important for working at height), and has clip-on ear defenders.
• Good for: Any site needing a hard hat, especially with height safety rules.
• Bonus: You can add visors or sun protection. It’s comfy but a bit heavy after a long day.

2. Hi-Vis Coat (Rail Spec)

My pick: Portwest 3-in-1 Orange Rail Spec Jacket

• Why this one? Warm, waterproof, and you can remove the fleece lining or sleeves if needed.
• Good for: Roadworks and rail sites, especially in winter or wet weather.
• Tip: Looks decent and feels super comfy.  Loads of pockets too.

3. Hi-Vis Vests (Yellow & Orange)

My pick: Leo Workwear Wharfton Superior

• Why two? Some sites need yellow, others prefer orange. Better to have both.
• The long-sleeve version is great for flexibility; roll the sleeves up or down.
• Sizing warning: They come up big! I wear a size small, and I’m usually a medium.
• Nice extras: Card holder, phone pocket, pen slots.

4. Safety Boots (Two Pairs)

My heavy-duty pair: Arco ST202 High-Leg Boots

• Why? Metatarsal protection, anti-static, zip and lace combo for comfort.
• Good for: Big plant sites, roadworks, and more hazardous work.

My everyday pair: Old Site Boots (B&Q brand)

• Why? Lightweight, feel like trainers, simple steel toe.

5. Safety Harness

My pick: JSP Pioneer 2-Point Harness with Twin Tail Lanyard

• Why? Simple, safe, and meets basic height access needs
• Good for: Observing work at height – not suitable for long-term work positioning.

6. Safety Glasses (Prescription)

My pick: Riley Roca RX

• Why? It’s hard to find stylish prescription safety glasses in the UK. These are decent.
• Tip: Make sure they meet British standards!

7. Hi-Vis Trousers

My pick: Leo Workwear Cargo Trousers (yellow and orange)

• Why? Comfortable, even when worn over jeans, great for roadside jobs.
• Good for: Full Hi-Vis look on strict sites.

8. Gloves & Masks (RPE)

• Gloves: Milwaukee Cut Level 5 with touchscreen support (SmartSwipe).
  Note: These were gifted, so I’m not sure on price, but they’re quality!
• RPE: I carry a mix of FFP2 and FFP3 masks in a bag for quick use on dusty sites.

9. The Best Bit – My Storage Box!

My pick: Keter 68L “Skida” Box from B&Q

• Why? Holds all my PPE, has wheels, a handle, and a lockable lid.
• Tip: Makes it easy to move between the car and the site.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to spend loads on PPE. I used hand-me-down gear for years. Nevertheless, once I started working as a consultant and visiting different types of sites, it made sense to invest in better gear. It helps with:

• Comfort during long days
• Meeting different site requirements
• Looking professional for your business

If you’re starting out, focus on a few good basics. Over time, you can build up a solid kit that works everywhere.

Where I Buy My Gear

• Amazon – Great for helmets and accessories
• Workwear Express – Hi-Vis, jackets, trousers
• Arco – Boots, gloves, hearing protection
• B&Q – Site boots, storage boxes
• Safety Specs UK – Prescription glasses

I hope this helped you plan your PPE kit! Safe travels and stay sharp on site.