Landscaper and Gardener Workwear and PPE for Australia
Written and reviewed by the Max Global Products team · Updated October 2026
Quick answer: a landscaper or gardener needs sun-safe clothing (UPF50+ long sleeves, a wide brim hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen), AS 2210.3 safety boots, AS/NZS 1337.1 safety glasses, hearing protection for mowers, blowers and trimmers, durable gloves, a P2 mask for cutting pavers and handling soil and mulch, and cooling and hydration gear for summer. Add hi-vis when working near roads or plant.
The landscaper's kit list
| Item | What to look for | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Sun-safe shirt | Long sleeve, lightweight, UPF50+ fabric. Hi-vis if you work near traffic. | Hard Yakka UPF50+ long sleeve polo (men's), women's version |
| Hat and sunscreen | Wide brim or legionnaire style; SPF 50+ sunscreen in a size you'll keep in the ute. | Portwest wide brim hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen 125 ml |
| Safety boots | AS 2210.3, water resistant, with a lugged sole for grass and slopes. | Safety boots, e.g. Blundstone 311 elastic side |
| Eye protection | AS/NZS 1337.1 glasses for trimmers and blowers; a mesh visor for brush cutting. | Safety eyewear, e.g. Scope 360 Speed |
| Hearing protection | Mowers, blowers and brush cutters are loud enough to damage hearing over a day. | Howard Leight Sync earmuffs |
| Gloves | Leather riggers for rocks, sleepers and pavers; coated gloves for planting. | Pro Choice extended-cuff rigger |
| Dust mask | P2 for cutting pavers and handling bagged potting mix and mulch. | Pro Choice flat fold P2 |
| Heat gear | Cooling neck scarf or vest, and a hydration pack or large bottle. | Portwest cooling neck scarf, hydration |
Hazards specific to landscaping
- Potting mix: can carry Legionella bacteria. Open bags away from your face, wear a P2 mask and gloves, and wash hands.
- Silica: cutting pavers, retaining blocks and stone releases silica dust. Cut wet and wear a P2.
- Sun and heat: outdoor workers in Australia have a high skin cancer risk. See Safe Work Australia on working outside.
- Chemicals: herbicides and pesticides need the gloves, eyewear and respirator listed on the label and safety data sheet.
Frequently asked questions
What should gardeners wear to protect from the sun?
Long sleeves in UPF50+ fabric, long pants, a wide brim or legionnaire hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen reapplied every two hours, and sunglasses or tinted safety glasses.
Do landscapers need hearing protection?
Yes when using mowers, blowers, brush cutters and saws. These regularly exceed the 85 dB(A) exposure standard.
Is potting mix dangerous?
Potting mix and compost can carry Legionella, which causes a serious lung infection. Wear a P2 mask and gloves, dampen the mix and open bags carefully.
Outfitting a team
Landscaping or grounds crew? Apply for a trade account. See the full guide by trade.
Last reviewed October 2026. This guide covers common kit; your employer's risk assessment and site rules decide what is mandatory.