What Is Personal Protective Equipment?

Introduction

Workplace safety is a top priority across all industries, especially in environments where employees face potential hazards. In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets strict regulations to ensure employers provide safe working conditions. One critical element of workplace safety is personal protective equipment (PPE). 

Now, you may wonder what PPE is. PPE includes items like gloves, masks, goggles, and gowns designed to protect workers from potential hazards such as chemical exposure, infectious diseases, or physical injuries. Its use is especially critical in healthcare settings, where workers face daily risks from pathogens and medical equipment. Employers prioritize PPE to ensure a safer work environment, protect workers' health, and comply with legal requirements. Let us discuss PPE more and why it is considered an inevitable part of healthcare settings. 

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What is PPE?

PPE refers to any material or equipment that helps protect individuals from health and workplace hazards. You can wear it to enhance your  safety and reduce the risk of injury. Over 59.4% of workers currently use PPE in their workplaces, based on recent statistics. 

Personal protective equipment protects you from the risks associated with hazardous work environments. A standard PPE kit typically includes items like protective headgear, eye protection, gloves, hard hats, and sometimes other garments for fall protection and enhanced safety. 

Many industries mandate its use to ensure safety, including construction, mining, hazardous waste management, power generation, oil and gas production, healthcare, and firefighting. OSHA regulations also require the use of PPE in workplaces that involve potential hazards like exposure to chemicals, falling objects, or electric shocks.

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What Are The Main Types of PPE?

After learning what PPE is in healthcare, you should also be aware of their different types. PPE comes in various forms, and its  usage depends on the industries or health hazards. However, some common types of PPE are used across industries and sectors. These include:

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Gloves and Safety Shoes

You can wear gloves to prevent injury from hot materials or other sharp objects. The type of glove required depends on the specific hazard, such as disposable gloves guarding against mild irritants, leather gloves protecting against sparks or rough surfaces, and chemical-resistant gloves shielding against corrosive substances. Safety shoes, on the other hand, are specifically designed to protect workers against falls.

Protective Headgear

Protective headgear is used in industries where workers are frequently exposed to chemical, heat, or noise hazards. Depending on the work environment, headgear may include Class G helmets for low-voltage protection, Class E helmets for high-voltage exposure, or Class C helmets for non-electrical hazards. Engineers, inspectors, and visitors on construction sites are also required to wear helmets in high-risk areas. This equipment shields individuals from falling objects, harmful substances, and excessive noise generated by machinery or other equipment.

Dust Resistant Clothes

In industries like construction, mining, and agriculture, workers are frequently exposed to dust and airborne particles that can harm their health. Dust-resistant clothing acts as a barrier against these contaminants, reducing the risk of respiratory and skin-related issues. These garments, typically made from tightly woven or coated fabrics, prevent dust and particles from reaching the skin and respiratory system. Workers in environments with hazardous dust, such as silica or asbestos, often pair dust-resistant clothing with respiratory protective equipment for added safety.

Earplugs and Safety Glasses

You can wear safety glasses to prevent injuries from particles, flying objects, liquids, and sparks. Earplugs, whether molded, self-molded, or custom-made, shield workers from noise-induced hearing loss caused by prolonged exposure to excessive decibel levels. Earmuffs are another option, providing comfort while reducing sound exposure. For eye protection, safety glasses prevent injuries from flying particles, splashes, and sparks. Advanced eyewear options, such as goggles and face shields, also offer enhanced protection against more severe hazards, like chemical splashes or welding sparks.

Protective Clothing

Protective clothing, such as coveralls and suits, is another form of PPE used in industries where workers are exposed to various hazards. These include extreme heat, toxic fumes, chemicals, bacteria, radiation, and sharp objects. Protective clothing is necessary to guard against hazards in such environments. For example, workers employed in chemical processing and waste treatment plants wear protective clothing regularly.

Respiratory Protective Equipment

Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is vital for workers exposed to airborne contaminants, toxic fumes, or oxygen-deficient environments. Air-purifying respirators filter harmful particles from the air, with options ranging from tight-fitting masks to loose-fitting hoods. For higher-risk scenarios, atmosphere-supplying respirators, such as self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA), provide breathable air from a safe source. Employers must conduct regular fit tests, provide training, and ensure proper storage and maintenance of respiratory equipment to maximize its effectiveness.

How is PPE Used in Different Industries?

PPE is used across sectors and industries to minimize workplace dangers. It also helps preserve human health during pandemics and other health hazards. Below is an overview of the industries where workers specifically wear PPE during their work hours:

Construction Industry

The construction sector witnesses common hazards, such as heavy machinery, falling debris, and exposure to harmful substances. PPE such as hard hats, safety goggles, steel-toed boots, high-visibility vests, and gloves can help mitigate these risks in the construction industry.

Healthcare Sector

Frontline workers in healthcare industries are often exposed to infectious diseases, harmful pathogens, and hazardous chemicals. PPE prevents exposure and the transmission of infections among these workers.

Manufacturing Plants

Workers within manufacturing plants encounter risks from chemicals, machinery, and excessive noise. PPE in this sector is customized according to specific hazards to enhance worker safety. Earplugs or earmuffs are common equipment that protects workers against noise-induced hearing loss. On the other hand, respirators are included in the PPE to safeguard these workers against the inhalation of harmful fumes or particles.

Laboratories

Laboratory environments present different hazards, such as biological agents, chemical spills, and high temperatures. PPE minimizes exposure and ensures the safety of lab personnel in these environments.

Agriculture and Farming

The agricultural sector presents hazards, such as exposure to chemicals, outdoor risks, and machinery-related injuries. Farmers and agricultural workers can use PPE kits, such as gloves, boots, and eye protection, to address these dangers.

Mining Industry

The mining industry involves hazardous risks, such as dust exposure, heavy machinery, and unstable conditions. Miners often rely on PPE, such as hard hats with integrated lights, respiratory protection, and high-visibility clothing, to maintain safety.

Emergency Services

Workers in emergency services, such as paramedics, firefighters, and rescue personnel, face high-risk and unpredictable situations that demand specialized PPE. For instance, firefighters and rescue personnel wear turnout gear or bunker gear, such as fire-resistant suits and helmets, to protect their bodies against heat and flames during risky operations.

Electrical Industry

The electrical industry presents hazards related to live electrical systems, arc flashes, and electrocution. Electricians often wear face shields, arc-rated clothing, and insulated gloves to protect themselves against electric shocks when working with live wires and other machines.

Maritime and Shipping

The maritime and shipping industry involves hazardous risks, such as exposure to harsh weather conditions, drowning, and accidents aboard vessels. Workers wear personal flotation devices (PFDs), waterproof clothing, life jackets, and slip-resistant footwear, among other PPE, to stay safe at sea.

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What Are The Benefits of PPE?

PPE has several advantages for businesses and healthcare workers, offering immediate health protection. A single accident involving an employee might cost a company far more than the overall cost of PPE kits. That is why most employers consider PPE due to the significant benefits it provides, such as:

Improved Employee Confidence and Satisfaction

PPE enhances worker morale and overall productivity across workplaces. When people feel secure and comfortable at work, they experience less stress and maintain positive attitudes toward their jobs. 

Occupational Safety in any Workplace Hazards

Wearing PPE at the workplace may make it possible to collect compensation from your employer's insurer. As a result, you can protect yourself from financial burdens by using appropriate protective equipment.

Reduction in Staff Turnover

Employees satisfied with their working conditions stay longer than those who do not enjoy their jobs. PPE provides employees with occupational safety devices that protect them sufficiently. This protection reduces absenteeism due to injuries or sickness and helps lower staff turnover.

No Prosecutions, Fines, and Legal Fees

Failure to comply with OSHA regulations may result in hefty fines, prosecution, compensation payouts, or jail time. By ensuring their employees wear appropriate PPE in the workplace, employers can avoid these potential lawsuits and financial losses.

Read More: Osha Violations List 

How to Assess and Choose the Right PPE?

The specific type of PPE you choose for yourself or your organization depends on several factors. This enables you to select a kit that fits your profession and encourages safe working conditions. The factors to consider are:

Consider Industry Standards

If you are uncertain about the type of PPE you are supposed to wear, confirm your choices by checking the latest OSHA guidelines and other governing bodies. 

Climate

Climate-related issues, such as working in high temperatures, can lead to employees abandoning their PPEs. The best way to avoid this situation is by choosing breathable, temperature-regulating kits for everyone within the organization.

Threat Level

The threat level you face will also influence the amount and type of PPE you wear. For example, employees in a construction site may regularly risk electrical shock while on the job. In that case, they must wear either Class A PPE, which protects against mild shocks, or Class B, which protects against stronger shocks for their safety.

Use PPE Effectively in Healthcare And Other Workplaces!

PPE helps you ensure the well-being of every person in medical and workplace environments. Therefore, you should learn how to use the equipment to protect yourself and others by pursuing the right certification. If you are a healthcare professional, you should consider completing a HAZWOPER or OSHA certification to ensure you know what PPE is. This will help you learn how to enhance workplace safety standards and other treatment techniques. So, why wait? Approach a recognized organization to pursue your certification now.

References

1. https://blog.falcony.io/en/personal-protective-equipment-ppe-in-different-industries

2. https://nistglobal.com/blog/2022/09/what-is-personal-protective-equipment-its-uses/#:~:text=PPE%20includes%20any%20material%20that,number%20of%20jobs%20and%20industries.

3. https://www.premiersafety.com/blog/personal-protective-equipment-importance-and-benefits/?srsltid=AfmBOoo_Z1JqeMbGkB6tPXk_4ardHl30eObYT_WhOaxpJs4rkXDumS7N

4. https://www.osha.gov/personal-protective-equipment