- Survey the workplace to
identify:
- Potential hazards
- Adequacy of pre-contact control measures
- Hazards requiring PPE measures
- Match PPE to the hazard
Choose the right PPE to match the hazard - this will vary according to the jobs concerned (some may involve exposure to more than one hazard. E.g. a welder may require protection against welding gases, harmful light rays, molten metal and flying chips. In such instances, multiple protection is needed: a welding helmet, welders' goggles and the appropriate respirator, or an
air-supplied welding hood.
- Obtain advice
Once you have determined your PPE needs, shop around. Discuss your needs with suppliers and ask for their recommendations. Always ask for alternatives and check product claims and test data. Try out PPE and test it to see that products meet all your criteria before it is approved.
- Involve workers in evaluations
It is critical to involve users in the selection of specific models. This may mean introducing approved models into the workplace for trials by the workers - information will be gained regarding fit, comfort, and worker acceptability. When choosing PPE, workers should select from two or three models, allowing for personal preferences. Ideally, PPE should be individually 'owned'.
- Consider ergonomics
An unnecessarily heavy or poorly fitted PPE device is unlikely to be worn. The same goes for unattractive or uncomfortable, or imposed models. When several PPE items are worn together, interactions must be borne in mind.
- Evaluate cost considerations
Cost usually matters. It pays to take a longer view, e.g. opting for multiple use devices such as gloves or respirators is often more cost effective than the disposable alternatives, despite the initial low cost.
- Check the fit
Ideally, each user should be individually fitted with their PPE by a qualified person - with a demonstration on how to wear and maintain it properly. Incorrect fitting is a frequent cause of protection failure.
- Regular maintenance and inspections
Maintenance should include inspection, care, cleaning, repair, and proper storage. Probably the most important aspect is frequent inspection. Carefully performed inspections will identify damaged or malfunctioning PPE before it is used. PPE that is not performing up to manufacturers specifications, such as safety glasses with scratched lenses that have lost their ability to withstand impact should be discarded. There should be procedures for obtaining replacement parts for damaged PPE, and to keep it clean. Some devices require elaborate cleaning and testing routines.
- Training
No programme is complete without training to ensure the optimum use of PPE. Training should cover how to fit and wear PPE, how to adjust it for maximum protection, and how to care for it. Training can be done on an individual basis or in group meetings: it should stress the major goals of the PPE programme and the fact that pre-contact controls have been considered as the primary prevention strategy. For PPE used rarely (e.g. respirators for emergency situations) regular refresher training should be provided to coincide with PPE "fitness for purpose" review.
- Continuous review
Annual audits are the most common approach but it may be advisable to review critical areas more frequently.
The aim of review should be to check how far the PPE programme is meeting its objectives in terms of:
- Compliance
- Reduced accidents and incidents
- Reduced sickness and absenteeism
- Improved productivity
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