The Best PPE for HVAC Technicians

All employers must take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure their workers health and safety — but for HVAC techs, completely eliminating risk isn’t always possible. To help mitigate these risks, it’s essential to equip HVAC technicians with high-quality personal protective equipment (PPE). While some PPE is legally required, other gear helps protect your team’s long-term health on the job.

Check your team is prepared for the job site with our free H&S checklist. 

Low on time? Find our top picks for:

1. Safety-toed work boots
2. Cut-resistant gloves
3. Hard hat
4. Safety glasses
5. Face shield
6. Respirator
7. High-visibility clothing
8. Arc flash protective gear
   Recommended PPE
9. Rubber-insulated gloves
10. Earmuffs
11. Knee pads
12. Back brace
    
13. Cooling vest
14. Full-coverage shirt
15. Comfortable pants

Legally required PPE

1. Safety-toed work boots — Apex 6-inch BOA® Waterproof Safety Toe Boot

It's more than likely that you're going to encounter water on site; from leaking condensate lines, rooftops with pooling water, or slippery basements beneath HVAC units.The Apex 6-inch BOA® Waterproof Safety Toe Boot offers best-in-class slip resistance. Its waterproof construction keeps feet dry during outdoor installs or emergency callouts in wet weather, while the BOA® Fit System allows HVAC techs to make quick adjustments without needed to remove gloves. The built-in safety toe protects against common onsite hazards even in residential environments where heavy tools, extension ladders, access panels, or condenser units can easily drop or shift during installs.

Why pick the Apex 6-inch BOA® Waterproof Safety Toe Boot?

• Aluminum safety toe protection meeting ASTM standards; electrical hazard protection.​
• Ultralight design with EVA foam footbed; BOA® Fit System for precise adjustments.​
• Waterproof and oiled nubuck leather; Vibram® Eco outsole with high slip resistance.​
• Cemented with TPU shank; non-marking, heat-resistant outsole.

Looking for more ideas? Check out our top picks for the Best HVAC Boots

2. Cut-resistant gloves – Wells Lamont Latex Coated Cut Resistant Knit Wrist

Ideal for HVAC techs handling sharp sheet metal, insulation, or tools, these gloves offer cut protection with a latex-coated grip for secure handling. The snug knit wrist helps keep out metal shavings, dust, and insulation fibres, making the Wells Lamont Latex Coated Cut Reisistant Knit Wrist the essential glove for ceiling installs, crawl space work, and rooftop repairs.

Why pick the Wells Lamont Latex Coated Cut Resistant Knit Wrist?

• ANSI-rated cut resistance
• Latex coating for improved grip
• Breathable knit shell for comfort
• Protection from cuts, abrasions, and heat
• Flexible for handling tools and sheet metal

3. Hard hat — Milwaukee BOLT Helmet Vented

Designed for HVAC technicians whowork in tight, overhead spaces like attics, rooftops, and ceiling voids, the Milwaukee BOLT™ Vented Helmet offers protection against falling tools and head knocks. Its vented design improves airflow in hot, enclosed areas, while the machine-washable sweatband and liner keep things fresh shift after shift. Compatible with BOLT™ accessories like lights and face shields, it’s a jobsite-ready helmet, although no promises that it'll help with helmet hair.

Why pick the Milwaukee BOLT Helmet Vented?

• Protects against falling debris and head injuries.
• ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type 1, Class C certified.
• Vented shell for better airflow.
• Adjustable ratcheting suspension system.
• Compatible with headlamps and face shields.
• Secure, comfortable fit.

4. Safety glasses – Hyspecs Transparent Icon Series w/ Clear UV400 Lenses & Side Shields

It's a real pain pulling glass and metal splinters out of eyes. Ideally, it's best avoided altogether. Tasks like cutting ductwork, drilling through walls, grinding metal, handling insulation, brazing or soldering refrigerant lines, using power tools in confined spaces, and servicing units with pressurised gases or chemicals can generate dust and debris. 

Why pick the Hyspecs Transparent Icon Series w/ Clear UV400 Lenses & Side Shields?

• Shields eyes from debris, chemicals, and sparks.
• Clear UV400 lenses with side shields.
• Wrap-around design for full coverage.
• Anti-fog and scratch-resistant.
• Lightweight and ergonomic fit.
• Suitable for chemical and debris protection.

5. Face shield — NoCry Premium Safety Face Shield

Eyes are hard to replace. A much easier purchase is the NoCry Premium Safety Face Shield, able to provide heavy duty protection during tasks like grinding metal, brazing refrigerant lines, pressure testing systems, or handling chemical cleaners, where sparks, splashes, or flying debris pose a serious risk. This lightweight headband is suitable for all-day wear, while the flip-up visor and adjustable headband provide a secure fit over goggles or a respirator. 

Why pick the NoCry Premium Safety Face Shield?

• Provides additional facial protection from sparks, splashes, and impact.
• Full-face protection from splashes, sparks, and debris
• Adjustable headband for a secure fit
• Flip-up visor for convenience
• Lightweight design for long wear
• Compatible with goggles and respirators

6. Respirator – 3M P2 Particulate Vertical Flat Fold Disposable Respirator

Breathing in dust and chemical fumes is a frustrating in the short term, and distasterous long term. When cutting into walls, handling insulation, or working in dusty or poorly ventilated areas, this P2 respirator protects against harmful dust, fibres, and mists. The flat-fold design fits easily in your pocket or tool bag, while the adjustable nose clip ensures a snug, comfortable fit.

Why pick the 3M P2 Particulate Vertical Flat Fold Disposable Respirator?

• Essential for protection from dust, mould, chemicals, and refrigerant gases.
• P2-rated protection against dust, fumes, and mist.
• Flat-fold design for portability.
• Adjustable nose clip for a better seal.
• Soft inner layer for comfort.
• Low breathing resistance.

7. High-Visibility Clothing — Trademutt's Men's Bonza Yellow Day/Night Hi Vis

Why pick the Trademutt's Men's Bonza Yellow Day/Night Hi Vis? 

• High-visibility color with reflective tape
• Day/night compliance
• Breathable, lightweight material
• Durable stitching for job site wear
• Designed for safety and visibility in traffic zones

8. Arc Flash Protective Gear — Enespro HRC4 Kit Arc 40 Indura Ultra Soft (With Gloves)

HVAC technicians working on or near energised electrical systems, especially in commercial or industrial settings, are at risk of arc flash incidents — sudden electrical explosions caused by faults or short circuits. The Enespro HRC4 Kit provides full-body protection rated to 40 cal/cm², shielding techs from extreme heat, burns, and flying debris. It includes a hood, gloves, and full suit made from lightweight, breathable Indura Ultra Soft fabric, allowing for both safety and mobility. This kit meets NFPA 70E standards, making it essential PPE for HVAC pros performing live electrical diagnostics, working in high-voltage environments, or servicing large-scale HVAC systems connected to commercial panels.

Why pick the Enespro HRC4 Kit Arc 40 Indura Ultra Soft (With Gloves)?

• Arc flash protection rated to 40 cal/cm²
• Includes full-body suit, hood, and gloves
• Meets NFPA 70E standards
• Lightweight, breathable fabric
• Designed for electrical hazard safety

Recommended PPE

9. Rubber-Insulated Gloves — Ironclad Unisex Adult Medium EXO Tactical Pro Gloves

While not a replacement for certified electrical gloves, the rubber insulation adds an extra layer of protection against minor electrical hazards during diagnostics, capacitor replacements, or wiring tasks. For HVAC technicians working near live circuits, disconnect boxes, or electrical components inside units, the reinforced palms and knuckles provide extra protection when handling sharp tools or tight installs, while the breathable back and secure wrist closure keep the gloves in place.

Why pick the Ironclad Unisex Adult Medium EXO Tactical Pro Gloves?

• Protects against electrical hazards.
• Rubber-insulated for electrical safety.
• Reinforced palms and knuckles.
• Breathable back for ventilation.
• Secure wrist closure.
• Improved grip.

10. Earmuffs — Howard Leight Honeywell Impact Sport Earmuff

HVAC technicians are often exposed to loud equipment like compressors, generators, vacuum pumps, and power tools, especially during installs or service in mechanical rooms and commercial sites. These earmuffs offer a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22 dB, helping to prevent long-term hearing damage. While protecting against harmful noise, they also amplify safe ambient sounds like voices or alarms — making them ideal for staying alert on busy worksites. The slim, foldable design is easy to store in a tool bag, and the cushioned headband and adjustable fit provide all-day comfort.

Why pick the Howard Leight Honeywell Impact Sport Earmuff?

• Reduces noise exposure when working near loud equipment.
• NRR of 22 dB for hearing protection
• Amplifies safe ambient sounds
• Slim, foldable design
• Cushioned headband and ear cups
• Adjustable for extended comfort

11. Knee Pads — Ergodyne ProFlex Kneeling Pad

For HVAC technicians who regularly work in tight or low-clearance spaces like crawl spaces, attics, or on concrete floors, the Ergodyne ProFlex Kneeling Pad helps prevent knee strain and long-term joint issues. Its high-density foam cushions against hard, uneven surfaces, while the water- and chemical-resistant material stands up to messy jobsite conditions like leaks or cleaning agents. The non-slip base adds stability during precision tasks like connecting ductwork or wiring low-mounted units, and the built-in handle makes it easy to carry from van to jobsite. It’s a simple, lightweight way to improve comfort and reduce injury risk on the job.

Why pick the Ergodyne ProFlex Kneeling Pad?

• Protects knees when working on hard surfaces or in confined spaces.
• High-density foam protects knees
• Water- and chemical-resistant
• Built-in carry handle
• Lightweight and portable
• Non-slip base for stability

12. Back Support Belt — BraceAbility Work Back Brace

Lifting and moving heavy HVAC units, compressors, or duct sections can put serious strain on a technician’s lower back — especially during installs in awkward or confined spaces. The BraceAbility Work Back Brace acts as a preventative PPE item, offering adjustable compression and lumbar support to help maintain proper posture while lifting. This reduces the risk of muscle strains, sprains, and long-term back injuries. With removable suspenders and breathable mesh, it’s comfortable enough to wear all day, either over or under work gear.

Why pick the BraceAbility Work Back Brace?

• Reduces strain when handling heavy HVAC units.
• Supports lower back during lifting
• Adjustable compression with removable suspenders
• Breathable mesh material
• Reduces muscle strain and injury risk
• Easy to wear under or over work clothes

13. Cooling Vest – HyperKewl Evaporative Cooling Vest - Sport

Overheating is a serious risk for HVAC technicians, especially when working in poorly ventilated attics, roof cavities, or mechanical rooms during hot weather. The HyperKewl Evaporative Cooling Vest helps regulate body temperature by providing 5–10 hours of cooling relief once soaked in water. It’s made from lightweight, breathable fabric that won’t restrict movement, and the adjustable fit ensures comfort during physically demanding tasks. As a form of heat stress PPE, this vest helps reduce the risk of heat exhaustion, fatigue, and dehydration, making it a cheap, reusable option for staying safe and productive on hot job sites.

Why pick the HyperKewl Evaporative Cooling Vest - Sport?

• Prevents overheating when working in attics or hot environments.
• Soak-activated for evaporative cooling
• Provides cooling relief for 5–10 hours
• Lightweight and breathable fabric
• Adjustable fit for comfort
• Reusable

14. Full-coverage shirt — Carhartt Men's Workwear Pocket Long-Sleeve Shirt 

Why pick the Carhartt Men's Workwear Pocket Long-Sleeve Shirt?

• Made from heavyweight 100% cotton jersey knit (6.75 oz)
• Rib-knit crewneck and cuffs to hold shape.
• Left chest pocket with Carhartt label.
• Side-seamed construction to reduce twisting.
• Loose fit for comfort and mobility.
• Tagless neck label for reduced irritation.
• Durable, breathable, and ideal for layering.

15. Comfortable pants — Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant

Made from a tough poly/cotton twill blend, durable work pants like the Dickies 874 help guard against scrapes, minor burns, and contact with sharp surfaces or insulation when crawling in attics, kneeling on rough ground, or working in tight spaces. The reinforced seams and stain-resistant fabric make them ideal for harsh jobsite conditions, while the traditional fit allows for easy movement throughout the day.

Why pick the Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant?

• Durable polyester/cotton twill blend.
• Wrinkle- and stain-resistant finish.
• Traditional fit with slightly tapered leg.
• Reinforced seams and permanent crease.
• Fade-resistant and built for tough conditions.

More resources for HVAC Business Owners

Looking to level up your HVAC business? Whether you’re just starting out or looking for ways to improve your processes, boost sales, or gear up your team, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of our most popular guides and articles:

• How to Start an HVAC Business
• HVAC Business Start-Up Costs
• How to Be a Good HVAC Technician
• Tips for More HVAC Sales
• How to Grow Your HVAC Business
• The Best Clamp Meter for HVAC Professionals
• The Best UV Lights for HVAC Technicians
• The Best HVAC Tool Bag for Technicians
• How to Get an HVAC Apprenticeship

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