PPE is all equipment which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work which protects him/her against one or more risks to his/her health and safety. The general philosophy is that where risks to health and safety are identified, the first priority is to eliminate the risk by providing safer alternatives, i.e. a safe place strategy. Or to provide “collective” protection, e.g. fume extraction, barrier rails, etc or by changing the working method. Only when it is not possible to achieve the required degree of protection by any other method should PPE be considered, i.e. a safe person strategy. Your section should be keeping a PPE register and carrying out regular inspections of your PPE. If any of your equipment is damaged do not use it; replace it before you carry out any operation that the PPE is intended to protect you from.
Responsibilities
The PPE Regulations impose certain duties on all of us:
- The Employer
- Must provide suitable PPE to all employees who may be exposed to a risk to their health and safety while at work and provide training in its use.
- Managers and Supervisor
- Must ensure that all PPE is properly stored and maintained in clean, efficient and working order.
- Must ensure all their staff are trained to use the PPE.
- Must ensure all their staff use the appropriate PPE when necessary.
- You (the employee)
- Must co-operate with your employer and use the PPE supplied to you when necessary.
- Must report any defects to their PPE.
What Can PPE Protect You From?
PPE is available for protection from:
- Atmospheric contamination – dust, fumes, mist, gas, low oxygen, noise, etc.
- Radiation – ionizing and non-ionizing
- Impact and abrasion – head, hand, foot, body
- Foul weather – heat, humidity, sand storms
- Emergencies – tank escape, etc.
Types of PPE
- Head Protection
- Hand Protection
- Body Protection
- Chemical Resistance
- High Visibility Clothing
- Respiratory Protection
- Foot Protection
