What is personal protective equipment? Also commonly referred to as “PPE,” this is equipment worn to reduce exposures to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. Those injuries or illnesses can result from contact with chemical, physical, radiological, electrical, mechanical, or any other workplace hazards. PPE may include gloves, glasses, hard-hats, respirators, earplugs or even coveralls, vests and full body suites.
First, if PPE is to be used, a PPE program should be implemented. This program should address any hazards present, type of PPE to be used, maintenance and how to use PPE.
What can be done to ensure proper use of personal protective equipment?
- All equipment should be safely designed and constructed as well as being properly maintained in a clean and reliable fashion.
- PPE should fit properly and comfortably, encouraging worker use.
If PPE does not fit properly, it can make the difference between being safely covered or dangerously exposed and not wearing PPE can result in severe injury to yourself and others around you. If not equipped well, it can be life-threatening.
It can result in the following things:
- Experiencing injuries as a result of falling items or debris
- Accidents and impacts
- Inhaling toxic gasses
- Punctures & wounds
- Burns caused by chemicals
- Electrical hazards
- Excessive noise or vibration exposure
There are many advantages to wearing personal protective equipment, such as:
- Protects you from head injuries
- Keeps your eyes and face protected
- Protects your skin and hands from harmful chemicals
- Protection from respiratory illnesses
- Protects your ears from loud noises
Along with the personal risks taken if you do not wear PPE, there are also legal risks if you do not wear PPE.
- If your employees do not follow the health and safety rules according to the health and Safety regulations specified by OSHA, they cannot work until they do because this isn’t only for their safety, but for yours as well.
- If an employee FAILS to wear PPE when it is necessary or wears inappropriately, both the company and employee are exposing themselves to liability concerns.
If employees choose not to wear PPE, despite the fact that it was given to them by their employer, is the typical factors that workers compensation advocates deal with on a daily basis.
PPE is given to employees to reduce the risk of injuries or illnesses and not following this protocol can be extremely risky for you and others. Safety is crucial and knowing how to use these safety measures will help avoid dangerous injuries and increase the quality of your workday!