Back Belts
It's important to know that back belts are not personal protective equipment because they don't physically protect you from back injuries.
Devices such as back belts are not recognized by OSHA as control measures to prevent back injury. While they may be accepted by individual workers because they feel as if they provide additional support, if used improperly, they may restrict the body's range of motion and possibly aggravate other ergonomic stressors in the job.
Research shows that back belts mainly help by reminding the employee to use proper lifting techniques. As a result, fewer back injuries occur. Thus, OSHA does not forbid the use of back belts and similar devices, nor does it endorse their use.
Work Clothing
Workers should wear clothes suitable for the work performed and conditions encountered. Loose sleeves, ties, lapels, cuffs, or other loose clothing must not be worn near moving machinery.
If your clothes get soaked or contaminated with flammable liquids, corrosive or toxic substances, irritants, or oxidizing agents, remove them right away. Don't wear them again until they have been properly cleaned.
Defective and Damaged Equipment
Do not use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) if it is defective or damaged. It's important to inspect PPE regularly, and before each use, to ensure it's capable of adequately protecting an employee from exposure to hazards. Remember, PPE that is defective is not PPE.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-6. Which of the following is TRUE regarding the use of back belts?
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