Over the last few years, Australian workplace safety has improved, with rates of work-related injuries and fatalities declining. However, there’s still room for improvement. Safe Work Australia reports that there were 139,000 serious workers’ compensation claims in Australia in 2022-23p.

Noting that the median time lost from work-related injuries and illnesses has been increasing over the past 10 years (with over 21% of accepted claims involving 13 weeks or more off work in 2021-22), companies cannot afford to let workplace health and safety slide off the list of major priorities.

Notably, personal protective equipment (PPE) is integral to successful workplace safety management. “Choosing high-quality and reliable safety wear is essential to building a strong safety culture that prioritises workers, making it a critical part of any comprehensive safety strategy,” explains Jung-Jae Choi, CEO of KameLo (a South Korean safety wear manufacturer that launched in Australia in 2023). “We wish more companies understood that high-quality, properly fitted PPE is an investment in worker safety and productivity”.

One of the biggest misconceptions around PPE is that it is a 'one-size-fits-all' solution or merely a compliance issue. Jung-Jae reiterates that simply providing basic protective gear is not enough. “Safety wear needs to be tailored to the specific hazards workers face. Inadequate or poorly chosen products not only compromise comfort but also jeopardise safety, leading to decreased compliance, reduced productivity and an elevated risk of injuries and illnesses.”

Jung-Jae elaborates on two key considerations when selecting PPE, for best results.

Two Key Considerations When Selecting Worker PPE

1. Ensure the right fit: Comfort and fit are often overlooked aspects of PPE, yet they have a significant impact on its effectiveness. Ill-fitting equipment can be uncomfortable and may even compromise safety. “This is especially important for women, who have traditionally been underserved in PPE design,” says Jung-Jae. KameLo is addressing this by making it a priority to offer a broad size range for both women and men, ensuring everyone has access to properly fitting safety wear, as well as adjustable and ergonomic designs that accommodate different body types. “It’s essential to choose products that offer flexibility, long-term comfort, and a balance between protection and mobility so that workers can remain both protected and productive,” states Jung-Jae.
2. Don’t compromise on quality: Companies should ensure they source products from reputable brands and suppliers that prioritise both quality and worker safety. This can be demonstrated through certifications that meet international safety standards and transparency in product testing results. “At KameLo we ensure our materials are KC-tested and certified, to guarantee they are minimally processed and chemically treated, reducing the risk of skin irritation or health issues,” says Jung-Jae. Adding that counterfeit and low-quality PPE can do more harm than good, offering a false sense of security and even posing health risks, Jung-Jae says: “It’s just as important to know what you’re putting on your body as it is to know what you’re putting in it.  A trustworthy safety wear brand will have transparent sourcing practices, invest in research and development, and maintain up-to-date industry knowledge to ensure their products meet the specific demands of the job”.

Advancing worker safety and wellbeing

For the second consecutive year, KameLo will be participating in Workplace Health & Safety Show Sydney – a leading work health and safety industry event, taking place from 23-24 October 2024 at The Dome, Sydney Showground. KameLo will be at stand C28, along with over 160 exhibitors who will be showcasing the latest in workplace health and safety solutions

“The Show is a vital platform that brings together industry leaders, innovators and regulators dedicated to improving safety standards. It facilitates the exchange of ideas, showcases the latest advancements in safety and educates companies on the importance of workplace safety,” comments Jung-Jae.

By participating in this event, KameLo aims to contribute to the ongoing conversation surrounding worker safety and wellbeing while highlighting their commitment to protecting Australian workers. “Attending the exhibition last year and engaging with professionals from diverse industries provided us with invaluable insights into the genuine needs of workers. This direct feedback has guided us in developing new products that better address those needs, enabling us to create innovative solutions that directly address workplace challenges,” explains Jung-Jae.

Supporting the local market

KameLo officially launched in Australia in September 2023 and has enjoyed positive response from the local market. “We’ve found that there is a real demand for premium, innovative safety wear that doesn’t compromise on either protection or comfort. Customers have appreciated our focus on quality materials and thoughtful design, particularly in sectors like camping, construction and welding, where durable and reliable safety wear is needed,” says Jung-Jae.

 KameLo has partnered with local distributors as part of plans to expand across Australia, ensuring their products are available to a wider audience. “Australia’s commitment to workplace safety has aligned well with our brand values, and we are excited to continue growing in the local market!” says Jung-Jae.

“We are delighted that KameLo – a leading PPE specialist with a global footprint – will be among the exhibitors this year, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the extensive and high-quality PPE products available,” says Stephen Blackie, Portfolio Director of Workplace Health & Safety Show.

Registration for the Show is free, at https://whsshow.com.au/whats-on-sydney.