In hazardous work environments, the safety of workers is paramount. High visibility (hi-vis) uniforms play a crucial role in ensuring that workers are easily seen, thereby reducing the risk of accidents. However, the effectiveness of these uniforms depends significantly on their proper maintenance. This article explores the importance of maintaining high visibility uniforms, the challenges involved, and best practices to ensure that these uniforms provide optimal protection.
Fluorescent Colors: These are bright and eye-catching, making workers easily noticeable in daylight and low-light conditions.
Reflective Materials: These materials reflect light back to its source, making the wearer visible in darkness when illuminated by headlights or other light sources.
Preventing Accidents
By enhancing visibility, hi-vis uniforms help prevent various types of accidents, including:
Vehicle-Related Incidents: Workers on roadsides, construction sites, or in warehouses are at risk of being struck by moving vehicles. Hi-vis uniforms make them visible to drivers and equipment operators.
Falls and Collisions: In cluttered or dimly lit environments, hi-vis uniforms help workers spot each other, reducing the risk of collisions and falls.
Challenges in Maintaining High Visibility Uniforms
Wear and Tear
Hi-vis uniforms are often exposed to harsh conditions, including dirt, grease, chemicals, and physical abrasion. These factors can degrade the materials, reducing their visibility properties.
Dirt and Stains: Accumulation of dirt and stains can obscure the fluorescent and reflective properties of the fabric.
Material Degradation: Repeated washing and exposure to harsh environments can weaken the fabric and reflective strips.
Compliance with Standards
High visibility uniforms must comply with specific safety standards, such as ANSI/ISEA 107 in the United States or EN ISO 20471 in Europe. Maintaining compliance requires regular inspection and maintenance.
Reflective Material Performance: Reflective strips must retain a certain level of reflectivity to meet safety standards.
Color Brightness: Fluorescent colors must remain vivid and not fade significantly over time.
Best Practices for High Visibility Uniform Maintenance
Regular Inspection
Routine inspections are critical to ensure hi-vis uniforms remain effective. Inspections should focus on:
Reflective Strips: Check for cracks, peeling, and loss of reflectivity.
Fabric Integrity: Look for tears, excessive wear, and fading of colors.
Cleanliness: Ensure uniforms are free from dirt and stains that could obscure visibility.
Proper Washing Techniques
Washing hi-vis uniforms correctly helps maintain their visibility properties. Follow these guidelines:
Use Mild Detergents: Harsh chemicals can damage the fabric and reflective strips.
Avoid Fabric Softeners: These can leave residues that reduce reflectivity.
Wash Separately: Wash hi-vis uniforms separately from other clothing to prevent contamination.
Gentle Cycles: Use gentle washing cycles to minimize wear and tear.
Repair and Replacement
Prompt repair and replacement of damaged uniforms are essential to maintain safety standards.
Patch Tears and Holes: Small tears can be repaired with patches, but ensure the repair does not obscure reflective areas.
Replace Worn-Out Garments: If uniforms show significant wear and tear, particularly in reflective strips or fluorescent areas, replace them immediately.
Storage and Handling
Proper storage and handling can extend the life of hi-vis uniforms.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade fluorescent colors.
Store Clean: Always store uniforms clean to prevent dirt from setting in.
Hang Uniforms: Hanging uniforms can prevent wrinkles and creases that may damage reflective materials.
The Impact of Poor Maintenance
Reduced Visibility
Poorly maintained hi-vis uniforms can lead to reduced visibility, which undermines their primary safety function. This increases the risk of accidents and injuries in hazardous work environments.
Non-Compliance with Safety Standards
If uniforms do not meet regulatory standards due to poor maintenance, companies may face legal consequences, including fines and penalties. Additionally, non-compliance can lead to increased liability in the event of an accident.
Worker Morale and Productivity
Providing well-maintained uniforms can positively impact worker morale. Workers are more likely to feel valued and take pride in their appearance and safety. Conversely, poor maintenance can lead to dissatisfaction and decreased productivity.
The Employer’s Responsibility
Implementing Maintenance Protocols
Employers should establish clear protocols for the maintenance of hi-vis uniforms. This includes:
Scheduled Inspections: Regularly scheduled inspections and audits to ensure compliance.
Provision of Resources: Provide necessary resources such as appropriate washing facilities and repair kits.
Encouraging a Culture of Safety
Promoting a culture of safety where workers understand the importance of their hi-vis uniforms and feel responsible for maintaining them can lead to better compliance and care.
Conclusion
High visibility uniforms are a critical component of safety in hazardous work environments. Their effectiveness, however, is heavily reliant on proper maintenance. Regular inspections, correct washing techniques, timely repairs, and proper storage are essential practices to ensure these uniforms provide maximum visibility and protection. Employers have a significant role in implementing maintenance protocols and fostering a culture of safety. By prioritizing the maintenance of high visibility uniforms, workplaces can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enhance overall safety for their workers.
High-visibility (hi-vis) uniforms are an integral part of safety protocols in various industries across Australia. From construction sites to roadwork zones, these uniforms play a crucial role in keeping workers visible and safe. However, to ensure their effectiveness and longevity, proper care and maintenance are essential. This guide aims to provide comprehensive insights into caring for hi-vis uniforms to extend their lifespan and maintain their visibility standards.
Importance of Maintaining Hi Vis Uniforms
Maintaining hi-vis uniforms is not just about appearances but about safety compliance. Proper care ensures these garments retain their high-visibility properties, allowing workers to remain conspicuous in hazardous environments, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.
Maintaining hi-vis uniforms is critical for several reasons, predominantly centered around safety, compliance, and functionality:
Safety Assurance
Visibility in Hazardous Environments: Hi-vis uniforms are designed to make wearers highly visible in various work settings, especially in low-light conditions or areas with moving vehicles and heavy machinery. Proper maintenance ensures that the garments retain their high-visibility features, enabling workers to be easily seen by their colleagues, equipment operators, and motorists. This increased visibility significantly reduces the risk of accidents, collisions, or being unnoticed in potentially dangerous environments.
Mitigating Risks of Accidents: Failure to maintain hi-vis uniforms may compromise their effectiveness. Faded fabrics or damaged reflective tape can diminish the garment’s visibility, potentially putting wearers at greater risk. By consistently caring for and monitoring these uniforms, companies can ensure that their employees remain safe and visible, thereby minimizing the likelihood of workplace accidents and injuries.
Regulatory Compliance
Industry Standards and Regulations: Many industries in Australia have strict safety regulations that mandate the use of hi-vis uniforms in specific work environments. Maintenance of these garments is crucial to comply with these standards. Non-compliance not only poses risks to worker safety but could also result in penalties or legal ramifications for the company.
Meeting Employer Responsibilities: Employers have a duty of care to provide a safe working environment for their employees. This obligation includes supplying and maintaining appropriate safety equipment, such as hi-vis uniforms. By ensuring these garments are properly cared for, employers fulfill their responsibilities toward employee safety.
Functional Integrity
Longevity and Cost-Efficiency: Regular maintenance and care extend the lifespan of hi-vis uniforms. When properly looked after, these garments retain their visibility and durability for a longer period, reducing the frequency of replacements. This not only saves costs for the company but also ensures workers consistently have reliable safety gear.
Performance Enhancement: Well-maintained hi-vis uniforms perform better in challenging conditions. They remain comfortable, functional, and maintain their visibility features, allowing workers to focus on their tasks without concerns about the condition of their safety attire.
In summary, maintaining hi-vis uniforms is not merely a matter of aesthetics or hygiene but a crucial aspect of workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Regular care and attention to these garments ensure their effectiveness in protecting workers and minimizing the potential for accidents or hazards in various work environments across Australia.
Understanding Hi Vis Fabric
Fabric Composition
Hi-vis uniforms are typically made from fluorescent materials combined with retro-reflective tape. The fluorescent base enhances daytime visibility, while the reflective tape improves visibility in low-light conditions.
Types of Hi-Vis Fabrics
Common fabrics used in hi-vis uniforms include polyester, poly-cotton blends, and breathable mesh materials. Each fabric type has specific care requirements to maintain its visibility and durability.
Hi-vis uniforms are crafted from a diverse range of materials, each selected for its unique properties and suitability in various work environments. Understanding these fabric types is crucial for tailoring proper care and maintenance routines:
1. Polyester
Polyester is a commonly used fabric for hi-vis uniforms due to its durability, colorfastness, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage.
Properties:
Durability: Polyester fabrics are known for their strength and resistance to abrasion, making them suitable for demanding work conditions.
Color Retention: They retain their vibrant colors well, ensuring the hi-vis properties endure regular wear and washing.
Quick Drying: Polyester tends to dry quickly, making it convenient for workers in environments where moisture or sweat is prevalent.
2. Poly-Cotton Blends
Poly-cotton blends combine polyester and cotton to leverage the strengths of both materials.
Durability: The polyester component enhances the fabric’s strength and durability.
Color Stability: The blend typically retains color well, though not as vividly as pure polyester.
3. Breathable Mesh Materials
Mesh materials are lightweight and airy, ideal for environments where ventilation is crucial.
Properties:
Breathability: Mesh fabrics allow airflow, reducing heat buildup and providing comfort during prolonged wear.
Lightweight: These materials are typically lighter, making them suitable for hot and humid conditions.
Visibility: While not as robust as solid fabrics, mesh materials still offer visibility due to their fluorescent coloring.
Understanding the characteristics and care requirements of each type of hi-vis fabric empowers employers and workers to adopt appropriate maintenance practices, ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of these essential safety garments in diverse work environments.
Care Instructions
Washing Guidelines
Separate Wash: Wash hi-vis garments separately from regular clothing to prevent color transfer and contamination.
Mild Detergent: Use a mild detergent to preserve the fabric’s properties. Harsh chemicals or bleach can diminish the fabric’s visibility features.
Temperature Settings: Follow manufacturer instructions regarding water temperature. Typically, a warm wash is recommended, but avoid hot water as it might damage the fabric.
Gentle Cycle: Use a gentle wash cycle to prevent excessive wear and tear on the fabric and reflective materials.
Drying Techniques
Line Drying: Whenever possible, air-dry hi-vis uniforms on a line. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays might fade the fluorescent color.
Low Heat Setting: If using a dryer, select a low heat setting to prevent damage to the fabric and reflective elements.
Ironing and Pressing
Low Heat: Iron at a low temperature to avoid damaging the reflective tape or melting the fabric.
Use a Pressing Cloth: Place a cloth between the iron and the uniform to prevent direct contact, especially on the reflective areas.
Stain Removal
Immediate Action
Promptly treat stains to prevent them from setting into the fabric. Use a mild stain remover or soap and gently dab the affected area.
Stubborn Stains
For tougher stains, avoid harsh chemicals and consider seeking professional dry-cleaning services specializing in hi-vis garments. Always test stain removal products on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Storage Recommendations
Proper Storage
Hang hi-vis uniforms on padded or wooden hangers to maintain their shape. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and chemicals.
Avoiding Contamination
Keep hi-vis uniforms away from oils, grease, and solvents, as these substances can diminish their visibility.
Inspecting and Replacing
Regular Inspections
Frequently inspect hi-vis uniforms for signs of wear, tear, or fading. Replace garments that no longer meet visibility standards or show visible damage.
Conclusion
Caring for hi-vis uniforms is not just a matter of aesthetics but a crucial aspect of workplace safety compliance. By following these maintenance guidelines, companies can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of their hi-vis uniforms, ultimately contributing to a safer working environment for their employees.
Remember, proper care and maintenance not only extend the life of hi-vis uniforms but also enhance the safety of those who wear them.
In Queensland, Australia, workplace safety standards are of paramount importance, especially in industries that require high-visibility (Hi-Vis) uniforms. These specialized uniforms are crafted with bright colors and reflective materials to ensure the safety and visibility of workers in various environments. Choosing the right Hi Vis uniforms is crucial as it directly impacts worker safety, comfort, and adherence to industry-specific standards.
Understanding Australian Hi Vis Standards
Understanding Australian Hi-Vis standards is essential for businesses and industries operating in Queensland, Australia. These standards play a critical role in ensuring workplace safety and minimizing risks, particularly in sectors where visibility is paramount.
Australia has stringent guidelines for high-visibility clothing, regulated by Safe Work Australia and adhering to the AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 standard. This standard provides a comprehensive framework for high-visibility garments, encompassing specific requirements for colors, design elements, and reflective materials. It’s crucial to comprehend the nuances of these standards to make informed decisions when selecting Hi-Vis uniforms for your workforce.
AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 Standard Breakdown
The AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 standard consists of detailed guidelines that classify high-visibility garments into different categories based on their visibility and intended use. These classifications provide businesses with a structured approach to selecting the most appropriate Hi-Vis uniforms for their specific industry and working conditions.
Classifications and Requirements
The standard outlines classifications such as Class D/N, Class D, and Class N, each tailored to distinct visibility needs. For instance:
Class D/N: This classification caters to Day/Night usage. Garments under this category are required to have both fluorescent material and retro-reflective tape, ensuring visibility in both daylight and low-light conditions. This is suitable for workers who operate in environments where lighting conditions change throughout the day.
Class D: Designed for daytime use, Class D garments primarily feature fluorescent fabric for enhanced visibility during daylight hours. These garments are suitable for industries where visibility during the day is the primary concern.
Class N: This classification denotes Night Use garments, focusing on retro-reflective properties for visibility in low-light or nighttime conditions. Class N garments are ideal for workers who predominantly operate in the dark or poorly lit environments.
Color and Design Specifications
AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 specifies fluorescent colors such as yellow, orange, and red for high-visibility garments. These colors are chosen for their ability to stand out against various backgrounds, ensuring workers remain visible and easily identifiable.
Additionally, the standard mandates the placement and quantity of retro-reflective materials on the garments. This includes the positioning of reflective tapes on sleeves, torso, and legs, ensuring maximum visibility from different angles.
Industry-Specific Considerations
Understanding the nuances of the AS/NZS standards is vital, particularly in Queensland’s diverse industries. For example, mining and construction sectors might require Class D/N garments due to variable lighting conditions throughout the day, while emergency services might benefit more from Class N garments for nighttime operations.
Importance of Compliance
Adhering to AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 standards is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental step in prioritizing worker safety. Non-compliance can lead to potential hazards, increased risks, and legal repercussions for businesses. Therefore, businesses must ensure that the chosen Hi-Vis uniforms meet or exceed these stringent standards.
Comprehending and adhering to Australian Hi-Vis standards is integral for selecting the right uniforms that prioritize worker safety and visibility in Queensland’s diverse industries. By understanding these standards and their implications, businesses can make informed decisions to protect their workforce and maintain regulatory compliance.
Assessing Queensland Workplace Conditions
Assessing workplace conditions in Queensland is a critical step in determining the most suitable high-visibility (Hi-Vis) uniforms for various industries. Queensland’s diverse geographical and industrial landscape presents unique challenges that must be considered when selecting appropriate attire to ensure worker safety and visibility.
Geographic and Climatic Variations
Queensland’s vast size encompasses a range of climates, from tropical in the north to more temperate regions in the south. This diversity influences the selection of Hi-Vis uniforms, as garments need to be adaptable to varying temperatures, humidity levels, and weather conditions across different regions.
In the tropical north, where temperatures and humidity can be high, breathable and moisture-wicking Hi-Vis uniforms are crucial to prevent workers from overheating. Conversely, in southern Queensland, where temperatures can fluctuate, uniforms must offer insulation against cooler weather conditions.
Work Environments and Hazards
Different industries in Queensland operate in diverse environments, each with its set of hazards. For instance, the mining industry faces dust, debris, and potentially hazardous materials, requiring Hi-Vis uniforms that are durable and resistant to abrasions.
Construction sites present their own challenges with uneven terrain, heavy machinery, and potentially dangerous tools, necessitating Hi-Vis clothing that provides both visibility and protection against workplace hazards.
Roadwork and traffic management sectors require Hi-Vis uniforms that ensure workers remain visible to passing vehicles, highlighting the need for garments compliant with Australian road safety standards.
Lighting Conditions and Visibility Needs
Lighting conditions significantly affect visibility, and Queensland experiences varying light intensities throughout the day. Assessing whether work is primarily conducted during the day, at dusk, or at night helps determine the appropriate Hi-Vis uniform classifications required for the workforce.
Industries operating during low-light or nighttime hours, such as emergency services or night construction projects, may benefit from Hi-Vis garments with enhanced reflective properties to ensure visibility in reduced light conditions.
Specific Industry Requirements
Different industries in Queensland have specific requirements regarding Hi-Vis uniforms. For instance:
The agricultural sector may require uniforms that provide protection against UV radiation, as workers spend extended periods outdoors.
Emergency response and law enforcement agencies might require Hi-Vis uniforms that integrate additional safety features or allow for the carrying of specialized equipment.
Worker Input and Engagement
Engaging workers in the selection process can provide valuable insights into the practical aspects of wearing Hi-Vis uniforms. Their input regarding comfort, maneuverability, and functionality of the attire in various work conditions can contribute significantly to the decision-making process.
Comprehensively assessing Queensland’s workplace conditions is integral to selecting appropriate Hi-Vis uniforms that prioritize worker safety and visibility. By considering the geographic variations, specific industry needs, lighting conditions, and worker input, businesses can make informed decisions to safeguard their workforce and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
Choosing the Right Hi-Vis Color
Choosing the appropriate color for high-visibility (Hi-Vis) uniforms is a crucial decision that significantly impacts worker safety and visibility, particularly in Queensland’s varied work environments and lighting conditions. The selection of Hi-Vis colors is instrumental in ensuring workers remain visible and easily identifiable, enhancing safety measures across different industries.
Impact of Hi-Vis Colors on Visibility
In Queensland’s bright sunlight, Hi-Vis colors play a pivotal role in increasing visibility. Fluorescent hues like yellow, orange, and red are commonly used due to their ability to stand out against various backgrounds, making workers more conspicuous during daylight hours. These colors are known for their capacity to attract attention, allowing for quick identification of workers in busy and potentially hazardous environments.
Fluorescent Yellow/Green: This color is highly visible during the day, making it an excellent choice for industries that primarily operate in well-lit conditions. It offers high contrast against most backgrounds, enhancing visibility in daylight.
Fluorescent Orange/Red: These colors are also popular choices for Hi-Vis uniforms, especially in situations where workers need to stand out against green or natural backgrounds. They provide excellent contrast in various lighting conditions, including dawn or dusk.
Consideration for Environmental Factors
The choice of Hi-Vis color often depends on specific environmental factors in Queensland’s diverse landscapes. For instance:
Regional Climates: Different regions in Queensland experience varying weather conditions. Coastal areas may have different lighting and weather patterns compared to inland or mountainous regions. Understanding these regional variations aids in selecting Hi-Vis colors suitable for specific areas.
Vegetation and Backgrounds: Consideration of the predominant background against which workers will be operating is essential. In forestry or agricultural settings, where workers are surrounded by green foliage, fluorescent orange may provide better visibility than yellow.
Lighting Conditions and Time of Day
Queensland’s fluctuating light conditions throughout the day necessitate Hi-Vis colors that offer visibility across different times. Considering industries that operate during dawn, dusk, or night shifts, choosing Hi-Vis colors that remain visible under low-light conditions becomes imperative. Reflective properties of Hi-Vis uniforms complement the color choice, enhancing visibility in dim or night-time environments.
Industry Standards and Preferences
Adherence to industry standards, such as AS/NZS 4602.1:2011, guides the selection of Hi-Vis colors. Understanding the requirements specified by these standards ensures compliance while making informed decisions about the most suitable colors for specific industries.
Worker Acceptance and Preference
Involving workers in the decision-making process regarding Hi-Vis color selection can positively impact their acceptance and compliance with wearing the uniforms. Understanding their preferences and considering their input can lead to better worker engagement and satisfaction.
Customization for Enhanced Visibility
In some cases, businesses might opt for customized Hi-Vis uniforms that incorporate additional reflective elements or color combinations to further enhance visibility while maintaining compliance with safety standards.
Additionally, considering comfort, durability, customization options, and compliance with regulations such as reflective material placements and garment classifications are pivotal in ensuring the chosen Hi-Vis uniforms effectively serve their purpose while promoting worker engagement and satisfaction.
By prioritizing safety, visibility, and compliance, businesses can mitigate risks, enhance workplace safety, and promote a culture of safety-consciousness among their workforce. The careful consideration of all these factors ensures that the selected Hi-Vis uniforms cater to the diverse and dynamic needs of industries across Queensland, contributing to a safer and more secure work environment for all.
We understand purchasing uniform for your staff is an investment. So, it is important to be getting value for money. You want it to be comfortable for your staff and durable for their challenges of their job, especially when your staff spends more time on-site.
There are cheaper options on the market, however you will quickly learn that it is false economy, with the items having to be replaced often, having implications on both your budget and the environment.
How To Pick Quality Hi Vis Uniforms
Here are 3 quick tips you can use to ensure you’re getting good quality hi-vis uniform (refer to the images above):
The seam lines will be double stitched and reinforced with over-locking – this will prevent seam lines tears.
The button holes will be finished neatly with minimal loose threads – a tight stitch on the button holes will mean that it keeps its shape.
Lastly, ensure the buttons are stitched using a cross stitch rather than hoop. (When you look at the button face on, there will be an X shape with the thread). There should also be a mound of thread on it rather than just 4 or 5 lines.
Introducing a new Hi Vis shirt from Ritemate. There is nothing else like this shirt on the market being 100% cotton and 135gsm. It’s so lightweight and designed for breathability that it’s selling fast and there is only a limited first drop so if you want to place an order we encourage you to email through your order ASAP to avoid missing out on certain sizes of Ritemate’s Lightweight Shirt.
FEATURES
RMX New Generation, RMX Flexible Fit Utility Shirt, Two Tone with Perforated Reflective Tape
Size XS – 5XL
Colour – Orange-Navy, Yellow-Navy
Weight – Ultra Light weight – 135gsm
New Generation, Flexible Fit Styling
100% Cotton Ripstop Fabric and Mesh for Comfort and Durable Performance
Triple Vented, Unique Gusseted Air Flow Vents Located at Chest, Shoulders/Back and Underarms.
Air Flow Perforated Reflective Tape
Superior Garment Assembly, Bar-Tacks and Twin Needle Stitching for Extra Strength
UPF50+ Meets AS/NZS 4399:1996
AS/NZS 1906:4:2010 and AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 for High Visibility Day/Night Wear
You can email us to check availability or for any further questions. As during the summer months it can be difficult wearing longs so this Lightweight Shirt is a fantastic alternative offering more comfortability but still meeting the government restrictions on hi vis and long arms.
For more information you can email jeni@redrooaustralia.com.au
LINKED IN = A POWERFUL PROMOTION TOOL FOR THE TRADE AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
If you’re thinking about starting a LinkedIn profile but you are umming and ahhing because you’re in the trade and construction industry then keep reading! LinkedIn is a powerful marketing platform that assists in marketing your business including fantastic B2B opportunity. There are two profile types that you can create, a personal profile and a business page.
LinkedIn opens doors for networking to a huge amount of potential clients. Keeping both profiles up to date with the latest information means that when someone engages with your profile and the content is of interest to them you’ll become a valuable resource. LinkedIn is a great lead generator if you spend time posting valuable, entertaining or educating content as well as time engaging with others, especially in your industry.
Having a LinkedIn Company page will increase your exposure to very targeted potential clients and industry related experts. If you spend regular time posting and engaging this will help your SEO, in other words help you move up in google searches as well as being found in LinkedIn searches.
POSITION YOURSELF AS AN INDUSTRY EXPERT
Positioning yourself as an expert in the trade and construction industry will help build your credibility and go towards gaining your clients trust. One way you can do this is by utilising the “Recommendations” feature. Having colleagues, suppliers, clients and other industry related acquaintances recommending you for specific skills or offerings. In the construction industry for example if you may be endorsed for starting and running a new business, project management skills, team building or other important job related or interpersonal skills you may have. The more recommendations you have the more potential leads you can generate.
Another way you can build trust in potential clients is to display your accomplishments. These could be both personal or professional, have you won any small business awards? Worked on large commercial construction sites or other awards perhaps that will help provide an overview of why you are industry experts.
CONNECT, COLLAB & NETWORK
You can also use LinkedIn to connect with and build quality business connections. New suppliers, outsourced professions or other forward thinking people who may help grow your business. One easy way you can do this is through joining industry related groups such as ‘Construction & Building Materials – Professional Group’ which has over 43,000 members or the ‘Construction Safety Group’ with over 17,000 members. Joining different groups is a free way of getting your content out there or learning what other construction and trade businesses are doing and how they are promoting their brand.
UNIFORMS? WHAT TO WEAR FOR LINKEDIN IMAGES
Make sure that your LinkedIn profile is a recent image of you that is clear, friendly and reasonably professional looking. If you have a uniform that you wear for your business often then wear this in your image. You can also create a branded header image that promotes your business. LinkedIn is a professional social media platform so presenting yourself as such is
On your LinkedIn Company profile page you can share images and video footage of your employees. Ensure that they are wearing branded uniforms that are clean (ish or as close to as possible), are wearing safety items if needed. You can read our article on employee uniforms here.
There seems to be little competition on LinkedIn for the trade and construction industry so if you start building your profiles and connections now then you may be able to stay ahead of the curve. Repurposing content is an easy way to easily integrate into the platform. Video also does incredibly well on LinkedIn but make sure you keep your Tik Toks to Tiki’s Tok, if you’re posting on LinkedIn the content should be relevant for the audience.
Most of all have fun! Social platforms are exactly that, places to be social. Have fun networking for your trade or construction business! You can follow our founder and CEO Jeni O’Brien on LinkedIn here , she would love to connect with you!
