Let's Talk Safety with Protekta Safety Gear

Hosted by Protekta Safety Gear

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May 2026

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About the show

Welcome to Let’s Talk Safety with Protekta Safety Gear. Throughout this series we will be interviewing industry experts to provide our audience with valuable health and safety insights on Work at Heights and various categories of PPE, topics will range from selection and standards to maintenance and care. This should ultimately assist you in selecting fit for purpose safety solutions for your site. Each episode is supported with additional resources like Toolbox talk PDF's and long form articles that will be available for download on www.protekta.co.za Be sure to sign up to our newsletter or follow us on Linkedin to stay up to date and be the first to know when new episodes launch.

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26 recent

May 19, 202636 min

Season 2, Episode 7 Part 1. Foot Protection

In this episode of Let's Talk Safety, host Dylan Sutherland sits down with Deleane of Rebel Safety Gear to look at why a blanket-approach to safety boots is not recommended. Deleane works through the difference between certification and fit for purpose, what is actually inside a dual-density polyurethane sole, and why a cheaper boot almost always carries a hidden cost that does not show up in the unit price.Essential listening for safety officers, plant managers, procurement leads, and operations teams responsible for foot protection across multi-section sites.Topics Discussed:Why certification is the start of a foot protection programme, not the finishWhat blanket-issue safety footwear looks like across a multi-section siteHow an anti-penetration midsole risk hides in plain sightDual-density polyurethane: what is actually inside the soleHeel plug compression and the biomechanics of worker fatigueLacing geometry, eyelet count, and metatarsal flex during walkingThe component-level cost-down levers in cheaper safety bootsLifespan as the real cost metric, not unit priceWhy a foot injury is the longest-healing PPE failure category

March 9, 202633 min

PSG Podcast S2EP04: Bridging the gap between certified PPE products and real-world application on site.

Episode 4| Join us in episode 4 of Season 2 Let's Talk Safety, where host Dylan Sutherland sits down with Rene Joubert, Technical Sales Manager at Protekta Safety Gear, to bridge the gap between certified PPE products and real-world application on site. Rene draws on her years of hands-on industry experience to unpack why having the right product is only half the battle AND why education, fit testing, and on-site support are just as critical to keeping workers truly safe.Topics Covered:Why certified PPE is often not used correctly on siteThe role of education and ongoing training in safety complianceHow Protekta's team goes beyond product supply to provide on-site supportBridging the gap between procurement and safety officersThe S-Wagon demo tool and how it brings PPE value to lifeRespiratory protection: fit testing, mask sizing, and filter selectionHearing protection: earplugs vs ear muffs, fit testing, and documentationInherently protective vs dipped flame-retardant garments, comfort and longevityHow proper PPE use can improve workplace productivityCommon misconceptions safety officers and procurement teams have about PPE standards

November 10, 202548 min

PSG Podcast S2EP03: An explosion left Partington Mtatabikwa without a hand and leg

When we talk about safety, we often focus on numbers: incident rates, LTIs, and fatalities – every number represents a person, a family, and multiple lives forever changed.In 2024, THE FEDERATED EMPLOYERS MUTUAL ASSURANCE COMPANY (FEM) had 6,000 workplace incidents reported. Around 60 were fatal, and many others resulted in permanent disabilities (the stories that are rarely told) – 99% of which were not covered by insurance.In episode 5 of Let’s Talk Safety, we share the story of Partington Mtatabikwa, a man who went to work one morning in 2010 and never came home the same. An explosion at work left him with severe burns and the loss of a hand and a leg. His recovery took twelve months in hospital and a lifetime of reinvention.Partington now works in HSE, using his experience to help others understand what’s truly at stake. He speaks honestly about how pressure, shortcuts, and missing a simple risk assessment led to an incident that changed everything.“I never thought it could happen to me,” he says. “But in one moment, everything changed.”When you share this episode with your team, you help bring safety back to what matters most: people. This episode gives teams a real example of how small decisions on the ground can change lives. By leading this discussion, you remind everyone that safety depends on awareness, accountability, and the choices made every day.Access supporting toolbox talks and resources by visiting: https://protekta.co.za/podcasts/

October 13, 202530 min

PSG Podcast S2EP02- Part 2: Eye Protection: Insights into the EN166 standard

In this episode of Let’s Talk Safety, Dylan Sutherland continues the conversation with Tiego Kekana from uvex safety to unpack how the EN166 eye protection standard translates into real-world protection.Key highlights:The real difference between spectacles and goggles in impact resistance.Why optical clarity impacts both safety and worker focus.How anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings reduce incidents.A real-world scenario where EN166 spectacles prevented serious injury.This episode takes eye protection standards from paper to practice. Helping you protect your team on site.Access supporting toolbox talks and EN166 resources by visiting: https://protekta.co.za/podcasts/

August 15, 20258 min

PSG Podcast S2EP02- Part 1: Eye Protection: Insights into the EN166 standard

In this episode of Let’s Talk Safety, host Dylan Sutherland speaks with TK from Uvex to unpack the EN 166 standard for eye protection. They break down what the standard is, its South African equivalent, the key testing requirements, common limitations, and additional features to consider when selecting compliant safety eyewear.Summary:EN 166 explained : An international test standard for eye protection, adopted in South Africa as SANS 50166 (latest version 2018).Testing requirements: Includes impact resistance testing for both lens and frame, optical correctness, and mandatory manufacturer markings on both parts.Impact resistance:Tested by firing a 6mm steel ball bearing at the lens at varying speeds without scratching, denting, or breaking.Markings: Must include manufacturer code, lens tint/type, and UV protection details on both the lens and frame.Additional features: Anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings can be added; both can be applied on different lens surfaces.Limitations: Fit for different face shapes, adjustability, and coatings suited to the work environment.Discover how EN 166 / SANS 50166 protects workers, and how to choose certified safety glasses, goggles, or face shields for the job.In this episode we answer your important questions: How do I choose the right safety glasses for construction work?What’s the difference between safety goggles, glasses, and face shields?Is EN 166 the same as SANS 50166 for eye protection?What type of eye protection is needed when grinding or welding on-site?Can regular sunglasses protect your eyes on a construction site?What are the legal eye PPE requirements for South African construction sites?Where can I buy certified safety goggles for construction workers in South Africa?

July 22, 202514 min

PSG Podcast S2EP01- Part 2: Fall Protection: Insights into the EN361 standard for full body harnesses.

Let’s Talk Safety: Episode 1-part 2: Understanding EN 361 Harness Safety in Real-World ConditionsIn this episode, we continue the conversation with Stephan van Heerden to explore the practical application of the EN 361 harness standard. We dive into how harnesses are tested, the importance of proper fit, and key features that enhance safety and comfort for workers at height.Episode Summary:EN 361 harnesses are tested to:Remain upright during a fall (dynamic test)Withstand 15kN for 3 minutes after a fall (static test)Resist corrosion (technical standard)Proper fit is critical: the D-ring must be between the shoulder bladesWearing a loose or ill-fitting harness increases fall distance and force impactAdditional features to improve safetyReal-world risk: improper wear or sizing can lead to increased injury or death in a fallPro tip included to ensure optimal safety

June 17, 20257 min

Fall Protection: Insights into the EN361 standard for full body harnesses.

Season 2 Episode 1|Part1 In this episode of Let’s Talk Safety, host Dylan Sutherland from Protekta Safety Gear sits down with in-house specialist Stephan van Heerden to unpack the EN 361 standard; a benchmark for full body harnesses used in fall arrest systems. We explore the standard’s technical requirements, its local equivalent (SANS 50361), and the real-world implications for work-at-height safety. From drop tests to weight limitations and harness certifications, this episode offers a practical and insightful guide for safety and procurement managers alike.What we cover in this episode:What EN 361 is and its local equivalent: SANS 50361.EN 361 is a Category III PPE product and it must carry proper certification.Test requirements for EN 361-certified harnesses:Dynamic drop test: Force must stay below 6 kN (approx. 600 kg); the fall must be upright.Static load test: Must withstand 15 kN for 3 minutes.Harness components must remain uncompromised after testing (stitching, buckles, webbing).Drop distance requirement: 4 meters for testing..Weight limitationsApplication limitationImportance of rescue planning to avoid suspension trauma after fall arrest.Visual indicators for usersDon’t miss this valuable and practical conversation that goes beyond the tick-box approach to ensure safe work at heights.

May 6, 202526 min

EP19 Jarred Swanepoel

In part 2 of our final episode for Season 1, Jarryd Swanepoel, National Sales Manager at uvex, discusses the importance of hearing protection in South Africa. He provides practical guidance on what safety managers and employees can do to effectively prevent noise-induced hearing loss.Did you know that noise exposure for an 8-hour shift should not exceed 85 dB? When noise levels surpass this threshold, employers must either implement noise control measures or supply effective hearing protection such as earmuffs or earplugs. This episode explores this and other key hearing protection topics:Importance of baseline audiometric tests at employment start to track hearing loss.Audiometric tests should be conducted annually and upon employee exit.Larger companies generally comply; smaller companies often overlook this due to cost, knowledge, and compliance gaps.A shift in perspective needed: from compliance-focused to personal quality-of-life importance.Explanation of decibel levels (whispering ~30-40dB, normal conversation ~50-60dB, yelling ~70-80dB, power drill ~90dB, jet engine ~130dB).Clarification of hearing protection misconceptions, including incorrect calculation of combined protection (earplug + earmuff).Overview of hearing protection types: reusable earplugs, disposable earplugs, earmuffs, custom-moulded plugs.Emphasis on correct usage for genuine protection rather than merely compliance.Are your teams aware that combining hearing protection doesn't add the ratings together? For example, using a 30 dB earplug and a 35 dB earmuff doesn't equal 65 dB protection? Read more on this by downloading our Toolbox Talk

April 1, 202529 min

Hearing Protection in South Africa: Insights from Uvex’s Jarryd Swanepoel

Episode 18|Part1 Join us for the season finale of Let’s Talk Safety as we sit down with Jarryd Swanepoel, National Sales Manager at Uvex Safety, to discuss one of the most pressing yet misunderstood issues in occupational health: hearing protection. Despite overall declines in workplace injuries, noise-induced hearing loss is on the rise and it's now one of the leading health concerns in the South African industry.What we cover in this episode:Why hearing loss is increasing, despite clear regulationsThe difference between compliance and effectivenessWhy earplugs are not a one-size-fits-all solutionSouth African hearing protection standards (SANS 50352 / EN352)A practical step-by-step checklist for safety managersMisconceptions that put workers at riskThe real-world implications of failing to protect your hearingDon’t miss this valuable and practical conversation that goes beyond the tick-box approach and repositions hearing protection as a critical part of workplace health and long-term quality of life.

February 20, 202524 min

Respiratory Protection: The hidden dangers of poorly fitted respirators

Episode 17| Respiratory protection is essential in hazardous environments, yet common misconceptions put workers at risk. In this episode, we explore the important factors that impact the effectiveness of respirators, including fit, material quality, and proper maintenance. Our 3M expert discusses common misconceptions about breathability, the importance of a proper seal, and how different materials, such as thermoplastic elastomers and silicone affect safety and durability.Topics covered in this episode:Why a tighter seal might feel less comfortable but offers better protection.The risks associated with low-quality materials and improper maintenance.How compliance standards guide the manufacturing of safe respirators.The importance of regular inspections and proper cleaning.Differences between half-face and full-face respirators in terms of safety.Shop safety respiratory protection as well as PPE on our website:https://protekta.co.za/