Does your body protector cover you?
With more and more safety garments on the market, the choice can be overwhelming. However, for those of us still opting for the simple, yet effective, body protector there are a few things you need to consider. Each body protector must be fitted according to its manufacturer’s guidelines, but generally speaking there are a few set things you should look for:
- A body protector should cover the entire circumference of your body.
- At the front of the body protector, the lower edge should not be less than 2.5cm below the lowest rib.
- At the back of the body protector, the lower edge should not be less than 15cm below the level of the top of the pelvis on an average adult.
- The top of the back of the protector should just reach the level of the seventh cervical vertebra, which is the prominent bone palpable through the skin at the bottom of the neck.
- The front of the body protector should reach the top of the breast bone.
- On the sides the body protector should reach the top of the pelvis.
- The body protector should cover the collarbone.
- Arm inlets should be of the smallest size that is comfortable and roughly circular in their shape.