Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Purpose and Definition

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is used to reduce employee exposure to hazards.
  • PPE is essential in maintaining workers’ health and safety in the construction industry.
  • It includes any equipment that protects the user against health and safety hazards at work.

Responsibility and Regulation

  • The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 regulate PPE at work.
  • Employers are responsible for ensuring the appropriate PPE is provided to workers.
  • Employees are responsible for using the PPE correctly and reporting any damage or faults.

Types of PPE

  • Head Protection: Hard hats are used to prevent injuries from falling objects and impact with fixed objects.
  • Eye Protection: Employed to protect against dust particles, metal chips, or chemical splashes.
  • Hearing Protection: Earplugs and earmuffs prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
  • Respiratory Protection: Masks prevent inhalation of harmful gases, vapours, and dust.
  • Foot Protection: Safety boots offer protection from falling objects and prevent slips and falls.
  • Hand and Skin Protection: Gloves protect against temperature extremes, harmful substances, cuts, and fractures.
  • Body Protection: High visibility clothing keeps workers seen in poor light and weather, while body harnesses prevent falls from height.

Maintenance and Training

  • PPE should be in good working order, well-maintained, and suitable for the usage intended.
  • The relevant training should be given to employees so they understand why PPE is needed, how it protects them, and the necessity of maintaining it in good condition.
  • Proper fit is crucial for protective equipment to function correctly. Employees should be appropriately measured to ensure the correct size is provided.

Limitations

  • It’s important to remember that PPE does not eliminate the hazard. If the equipment fails, users are exposed to the hazard.
  • Hence, PPE is the last line of defence after all other measures have been taken.
  • The use of PPE can restrict the wearer’s mobility and ability to carry out their job, so it’s a balance between safety and practicality.