Gloves, goggles, knee pads...: stay safe in the garden!
Let's make the garden a safe space.
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Gardening, often regarded as a relaxing and rewarding pastime, nonetheless harbours its share of potential risks. To fully enjoy this activity, adequate protection is essential to prevent injuries and discomfort.
The use of protective equipment such as gloves, safety goggles and knee pads plays a major role in creating a garden environment that is both safe and pleasant.
Garden gloves are the first line of defence against cuts, scrapes and stings, protecting your hands, the gardener’s essential tools.
In addition, safety glasses safeguard your eyes against various hazards such as soil splashes and harmful UV rays.
Finally, knee pads provide comfortable support for the knees, a part of the body that is particularly taxed when working at ground level.
These protective items not only prevent injuries but also increase comfort, enabling gardeners to devote longer to their hobby with greater pleasure.
Gardening gloves: essential protection
Gardening gloves provide a protective barrier against many hazards. They reduce the risk of cuts caused by sharp tools or branches, minimise scratches when handling thorny plants, and protect against insect bites or exposure to irritating substances. This protection is essential for preventing infections and other complications.
Choosing gardening gloves should be tailored to the type of work undertaken:
- Leather gloves : Perfect for pruning or handling wood, these gloves offer robustness and durability. They are ideal for protecting against cuts and scrapes.
- Coated fabric gloves : These gloves are often used for more delicate tasks such as pricking out. The coating provides good grip while protecting hands from moisture and dirt.
- Waterproof gloves : For work in wet or muddy conditions, waterproof gloves are essential. They help keep hands dry while providing good protection.
- Breathable gloves : For work in hot weather, lightweight, breathable gloves are recommended. They help reduce sweating while protecting hands.
Comfort is paramount when choosing gardening gloves. Ill-fitting gloves can hinder movement and cause discomfort, reducing work efficiency. It is important to choose gloves of proper size, offering good flexibility and optimal comfort.
Please note: To ensure the longevity of your gloves, proper care is essential. Clean them regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For leather gloves, the use of specific conditioners helps to maintain their suppleness and durability.
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How to choose your gardening gloves?Protective goggles: let's keep a clear view!
Protective eyewear is essential equipment for any gardener who prioritises safety. They are there to protect the eyes, which are particularly exposed to various risks during gardening: branches and flying debris (notably with the use of a wood chipper), prolonged exposure to UV rays (watch out for cataracts!), and not to mention certain chemicals or other substances that could come into contact with the eye.
There are obviously several types of safety glasses depending on the intended use or the protection required:
- Safety glasses with side shields: For tasks involving soil or the use of volatile products, it is crucial to choose glasses that provide good side protection. This guarantees that no particle or splash can reach the eyes from the sides.
- UV-protective safety glasses: When working in bright sunshine, it is important to wear sunglasses with UV protection. This not only helps protect against the sun’s harmful rays but also improves visibility by reducing glare.
- Anti-fog safety glasses: For damp environments or when wearing masks, anti-fog safety glasses are recommended to maintain good visibility.
Choosing comfortable, well-fitting protective eyewear is essential. Uncomfortable or poorly fitting glasses can be distracting and reduce effectiveness. It is therefore important to find glasses that fit well to the shape of your face and remain comfortable even after several hours of wear. Finally, regular maintenance of protective eyewear is necessary to maintain their clarity and effectiveness. Clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using non-abrasive products to avoid scratching the lenses.
Knee pads and garden kneeling cushions: let's look after our knees!
Using knee pads or a garden cushion is essential for any gardener, especially for those who spend long periods kneeling.
- Reducing pressure on the knees : Kneeling on hard surfaces can put substantial pressure on the knees. Knee pads help distribute this pressure more evenly, reducing strain on the joints.
- Prevention of joint pain : For those who already suffer from joint pain or knee problems, knee pads are particularly beneficial. They act as a protective cushion, minimising the impact and pain.
- Protection from sharp or hard objects : In addition to providing support, knee pads also protect against sharp or hard objects that may be in the soil, such as stones or broken branches.
You can opt for adjustable knee pads that fasten directly to the knees with adjustable straps, offering stable and customisable support. They are ideal for tasks that require frequent movement. Make sure the knee pads fit your knees well for optimal support. They should neither slip nor restrict blood flow. Knee pads should also be flexible enough to allow easy movement, while providing robust protection.
Garden cushions offer an alternative to attached knee pads. They lie on the ground to provide padding where you work. They are handy for static tasks such as pricking out or planting. Knee pads and cushions are available in a variety of materials, such as foam, gel or rubber.
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Garden tools: essentialsOther protective equipment
Beyond gloves, goggles and knee pads, other protective equipment play an important role in ensuring safety and comfort during gardening, without donning armour. These additional accessories help prevent various hazards and discomforts associated with outdoor work.
Wide-brimmed hats for sun protection
A wide-brimmed hat provides essential protection against harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn on the face and neck. In addition, by providing shade, these hats also help reduce eye fatigue caused by bright light, improving comfort and concentration. Choose hats made from lightweight and breathable materials for comfortable wear, even on hot days.
Long-sleeved clothing to prevent cuts and sunburn
Long-sleeved clothing protects the skin not only from UV rays but also from scrapes and potential cuts when handling plants or tools. Choose breathable fabrics to avoid overheating, especially on hot days. Some fabrics even offer built-in UV protection. Ensure they allow enough mobility and do not impede your movements while gardening.
Closed-toe shoes for good grip and protection
Closed-toe shoes protect the feet from cuts, punctures and falling objects. They also provide protection against bites from animals such as snakes or insects. A good pair of gardening shoes should provide solid grip to prevent slips, especially on wet or uneven surfaces. Choose comfortable, waterproof and durable shoes suited to the conditions of your garden.
Tips for choosing and maintaining your personal protective equipment.
To ensure a safe and comfortable gardening experience, it is essential to choose carefully and maintain your protective equipment properly. Choose equipment that fits you perfectly and meets your specific needs, as a good fit is essential to ensure their functionality and your comfort. It is also important to invest in high-quality products. Higher-quality equipment not only provides superior protection, but it is also more durable, making it a better long-term investment. Finally, regular maintenance of your equipment is crucial. Clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions and inspect them regularly for signs of wear. This attention will help you preserve the effectiveness and longevity of your equipment, ensuring continuous protection during your gardening activities.
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