Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Using personal protective equipment is a very important safe work practice. It's important to remember that, like other administrative controls, the use of PPE does not control the hazard itself, but rather it merely controls exposure to the hazard by setting up a barrier between the employee and the hazard.
Use of PPE may also be appropriate for controlling hazards while engineering controls are being installed or work practices developed.
PPE Drawbacks
The limitations and drawbacks of safe work practices also apply to PPE. Employees need instruction in why the PPE is necessary and hands-on training on how to use and maintain it. It' also important to understand that PPE is designed for specific functions and are not suitable in all situations. For example, no one type of glove or apron will protect against all solvents. To pick the appropriate glove or apron, you should refer to recommendations on the safety data sheets (SDSs) of the chemicals you are using.
Your employees need positive reinforcement and fair, consistent enforcement of the rules governing PPE use. Some employees may resist wearing PPE according to the rules, because some PPE is uncomfortable and puts additional stress on employees, making it unpleasant or difficult for them to work safely. This is a significant drawback, particularly where heat stress is already a factor in the work environment. An ill-fitting or improperly selected respirator is particularly hazardous, since respirators are used only where other feasible controls have failed to eliminate a hazard.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
5-9. What is the best source of information to help you select the most appropriate personal protective equipment while working with potentially hazardous material?
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