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Polyester, the Safer Alternative to Steel Strapping

Steel strapping is rapidly becoming a less preferred form of load containment. Research shows that the third most common workplace injuries between 2017 and 2018 were lacerations by objects. With sharp edges and a high break load, steel strapping can be the cause of serious workplace injuries contributing to these statistics.

In the past, steel strapping has been one of the most common and reliable forms of load containment, frequently used in logistics and distribution settings for securing heavy loads. It has become apparently obvious that there are significant safety risk factors associated with steel as a strapping material.

With so many safer materials in the market today, decision-makers are looking more acutely at alternatives. One of the most popular is Polyester (PET), a more affordable strapping material which positively impacts safety and the bottom line.

“Any business that has previously had a workplace safety incident with steel strapping is quick to engage in the changeover.” —Greg Fyffe, Signet National Sales Manager, SME.

PET strapping is the answer to a safer work environment for several reasons. Firstly, it is nowhere near as rigid as steel, and won’t fly back when cut at tension. PET features rounded edges, meaning cuts to the hands and skin are minimised. It is also much lighter and easier to handle, creating an improved ergonomic workplace.

In addition to the safety benefits associated with PET strapping, a higher resistance to shock and vibration in comparison to steel means increased performance and durability is achieved for strapping applications. It is also much cheaper than steel, usually at half the price.

Signet readily stocks products to combat some of the safety risks of steel strapping, such as Safety Gloves and Safety Glasses for personal protection, and Strapping Dispensers for easier handling. Click here to read more about using strapping safely.

Why use PET Strapping instead of steel:

  • Increased safety benefits
  • Hit OH&S targets
  • Mitigate safety risks
  • More economical (usually at half the price of steel)
  • Ease of handling
  • Increased performance and durability
  • Can be used for most heavy-duty applications where steel has been used in the past
  • Can be recycled through the proper facilities

If steel is your preferred strapping material, ensure appropriate safety precautions are followed. Signet has a wide range of Personal Protective Equipment available to help you stay safe in your strapping operations.

To find out more about Signet’s Strapping solutions, click here. If you’d like to speak with a Signet team member, contact us on 13 7446, email sales@signet.net.au, or Live Chat with us by visiting www.signet.net.au.

Find out how you can close the loop by recycling your PET Strapping