Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential if you work in an industrial or factory environment, and employers have a duty of care to provide the correct equipment for their staff. PPE protects against health and safety risks within the workplace and can include items such as steel toe cap boots, helmets, high-visibility gear, safety eyewear, hearing protection and respiratory equipment. Read on to find out about the importance of PPE in the workplace.
Before looking into PPE there are few questions you need to ask yourself. Think about what you are exposed to on a regular basis at work, how long you are exposed for, and the quantity that you are exposed to. Once you have answered these questions, you will have a much better idea of which PPE you need to choose.
Make sure that the PPE you purchase is CE marked and adhere to the latest safety regulations. Also if you are planning on wearing several types of PPE, check they are safe to be used together and aren’t going to interfere with each other.
There are many different hazards that you could be exposed to at work so it is important to understand the numerous types of PPE available to protect yourself.
The main cause of eye-related injuries in the workplace are chemicals. This could be caused by accidentally splashing chemicals into the eye, or touching your eyes with contaminated gloves. You need to make sure you have the correct safety glasses or goggles available, and that they fit correctly too.
Xcluder, Clear Compact Safety Goggles
Head injuries often occur as a result of impact from falling objects, or falling from height. People with long hair also need to be careful that this doesn’t become tangled in machinery. Industrial safety helmets should provide the right level of protection for the head, but do remember neck protection such as a scarf should be used when welding metal.
Exposure to noise for any period of time can cause long-term damage to your eardrums, particularly high-level sounds. The best way to keep your ears protected is to use high-quality earmuffs or earplugs that are tested and CE approved to the relevant standard: EN352-1:2002 (for earmuffs), or EN352-2:2002 (for earplugs). When hearing protection is only required intermittently, adjustable banded earpods are a more convenient solution.
Adjustable Foam Earpods Band SNR26
Extreme temperatures, radiation, and exposure to biological chemicals can all be dangerous if the hands and arms are exposed. The best way to protect these areas of the body are by wearing safety gloves and sleeves that cover the arms. Some chemicals can penetrate fabric quicker than others, so be careful when choosing your safety wear. Disposable coveralls are a great alternative to shield against liquid splashes.
Hazardous terrain and extreme conditions can be a catalyst for slips and falls in the workplace. It is therefore essential that you have the appropriate footwear to reduce the risks of accidents. Safety boots and shoes should have steel toe caps, particularly if you are around heavy machinery. There are lots of different sole types available depending on the conditions you work in, so make sure you choose the right footwear.
Working environments that have low levels of oxygen require extra precaution, as well as those where gases and vapours are regularly released. This is where you will need a respirator to aid with your breathing. Some respirators filter contaminants from the air, whilst others give a separate supply of breathable air. Just be sure that your respiratory equipment fits properly, and a face fit test is carried out where necessary.
FFP3V Moulded Disposable Respirator
It is the responsibility of your employer to provide a safe place of work, and to ensure that all staff are fully trained when it comes to health and safety. Even when the tightest safety procedures have been implemented, there may still be the risk of some hazards that could pose a threat. PPE is needed to reduce the risk of danger in these circumstances. Care should be taken to ensure the correct equipment is chosen, and staff are trained on how to use these items correctly.
Once PPE has been purchased it is important to look after it and store it in a dry, clean area. Replacement PPE should always be available as a backup, and some companies will need extra PPE available for times when visitors may arrive on the premises. Employees should be responsible for reporting any issues or damage to PPE so that it can be replaced in a timely manner.
If you have any other questions on the importance of PPE, please feel free to contact us.
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