Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Overview

This Online Presentation Provides Information Regarding The Use Of: Head Protection Eye Protection Face Protection Hand Protection Foot Protection Body Protection This information does not take the place of the specific training supervisors must provide their workers who use personal protective equipment (ppe).

Supervisors must provide their workers with specific training regarding: What personal protective equipment their workers must use, and when to use it. How to properly put on, take off, adjust, and otherwise wear the PPE. Any limitations of the PPE. The useful life of the PPE. How to properly care for and maintain the PPE When to replace, and how to dispose of the PPE Any testing requirements (electrical ppe) Any other pertinent information (see manufacturer recommendations)

Prior To Using Personal Protective Equipment:

When available, and feasibility allows, engineering and administrative controls must be used to control hazards. Personal Protective Equipment should be used when engineering controls are inadequate, not available, or not practical.

Hierarchy for Means of Controlling Hazards

1^stChoice →

Engineering Controls

2^nd Choice →

Administrative Controls Example: Safe Work Practices

3^rd Choice →

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Engineering Control Examples:

Welding Curtain

Laboratory Hood (sash & Ventilation)

Other Ventilation

Other protective measures to consider using prior to selecting personal protective equipment (ppe) to control a hazard include: Machine Guards Physical Barriers Ventilation Signs & Warnings

Why Is This Training Important?

Personal protective equipment can be used to preserve your quality of life. A serious injury would permanently compromise your quality of life. What do you like to do for recreation?

ç This picture was taken shortly after safety glasses prevented a broken mill bit from damaging a workers eye. Note: The white spot on the glasses is the impact sight.

Go Home healthy and In One Piece – IF PPE IS NEEDED THEN USE IT!

Job Hazard Analysis, & Documentation

Supervisors must assess the job tasks performed by their workers and document what personal protective equipment (ppe) is necessary for the work being performed. Once the analysis has been completed then Supervisors must document what ppe is needed. There are two methods for documenting what ppe is needed, depending upon where the work is being performed.

Method 1 - If the work will be performed in a laboratory that uses hazardous chemicals, documentation is accomplished by completing lab specific SOP’s. An SOP template is available at safety.byu.edu/ under the “Lab Safety” program.

Method 2 – If the work will be performed in an area other than in a laboratory that uses hazardous chemicals, documentation is accomplished by completing a PPE Assessment Certification, which is available by accessing safety.byu.edu/ppe/, “PPE Creation Wizard”, and then answering the applicable questions.

Tools Available For Supervisors To Use When Completing PPE Assessments

The following websites provide information that can be helpful when completing ppe assessments: safety.byu.edu/Gloves.htm - Glove Manufacturer Information Used To Select The Correct Gloves For Specific Chemicals www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3151.pdf - Document regarding ppe. www.free-training.com/osha/ppe/PPEMENU.HTM - Online training offered by OSHA www.eyesafety.4ursafety.com/laser-eye-safety.html - Information about selecting eyewear for laser use. safety.byu.edu/ - The Personal Protective Program for BYU

General Principles: Fit, Cleaning, & Storage of Personal Protective Equipment

-Fit- Workers must use personal protective equipment (ppe) that fits properly. Personal protective equipment (ppe) that is too loose or too tight does not afford the protection needed and may increase the risk for injury.

Remember to select the correct size and/or properly adjust the personal protective equipment that you wear.

-Cleaning- Follow manufacturer recommendations for cleaning of personal protective equipment (ppe). Most plastic and rubber components of personal protective equipment (ppe) can be cleaned using a mild soap solution and warm water. Air-dry ppe once it is clean.

-Storage- Personal protective equipment (ppe) must be stored in a manner that protects the equipment from dust, sunlight, excess moisture, extreme temperatures, deformation, and chemical degradation. We recommend storing ppe in a designated cabinet (or equivalent).

General Principles: Pre-Use Inspection

Personal protective equipment (ppe) must be inspected prior to each use. At the end of each major section below, you will find specific criteria (damage) to look for while inspecting personal protective equipment (ppe). If personal protective equipment (ppe) is damaged and/or compromised then do not use it. Damaged ppe must be replaced.

Head Protection

Use a hardhat when your head could be damaged by: Falling or flying objects (Including objects that are hot, heavy, and/or sharp). Or when your head is exposed to: Damaging liquids (hot, corrosive, or toxic) Electrical conductors that could contact the head.

(Note: All hardhats have a Class and Type)

Hardhats/Helmets

Class G (or A) Helmets help protect against impact and low-voltage electrical conductors. Shells are proof-tested at 2200 volts of electrical charge.

Class E (or B) Helmets help protect against impact and high-voltage electrical conductors. Shells are proof-tested at 20,000 volts.

Class C (or C) Helmets help protect against impact of falling objects, but offer no electrical protection. These helmets do not protect against corrosive substances.

(Note: Letters in parenthesis above indicate an older ANSI classification scheme)

Type 1 Hardhats protect against impacts to the top of the head. Type 2 Hardhats protect the head from top and side impacts

Type 1 Hardhat

Type 2 Hardhat

Note: The Class and Type of hardhat are included on the interior of the shell with a notice that the helmet meets ANSI Z89.1 standards. Do not use the helmet as a form of head protection if this information is missing.

ç Bump caps can be used in places where workers may bump their head on protruding uncharged objects, but are not to be used to protect against falling or flying objects. Note: Bump caps lack an ANSI certification number.

Pre-use inspection criteria Dispose of head protection if you find: The suspension system excessively worn or that the straps are torn, the plastic components are broken, or the helmet has sustained damage resulting from an impact. The shell is dented, cracked, an object has penetrated the shell, or there is damage resulting from an impact, poor treatment, or excessive wear. Also look for damage due to extreme temperatures and UV light (white chalky substance on the surface of the shell).

A properly fitting hardhat will be comfortable and secure.

Eye & Face Protection

Protective eyewear must be used when the eye(s) could be damaged by: Moving Objects (i.e. flying or swinging objects); Injurious Chemicals That are Toxic, Corrosive, Heated, or Cryogenic; Toxic, Corrosive, or Abrasive Dusts; or Radiant Energy (UV Light, Lasers, & Heat)

Types of Eye Protection

Non-vented goggles are used to protect against dusts. They can also be used to protect against moving particles and objects.

Used to protect against moving particles and objects.

Goggles w/o Vents

Use ANSI Z87 compliant eyewear.

Goggles w/ Direct Venting

Use ANSI Z87 compliant eyewear.

These goggles have indirect venting, and are to be worn when chemicals could splash into the eyes and cause damage. They can also be used to protect against moving particles and objects.

Used to protect against moving particles and objects.

Splash Goggles

Use ANSI Z87 compliant eyewear.

Safety Glasses

Use ANSI Z87 compliant eyewear.

If you are using a laser then you should select the proper tint of lens that is designed to block out a specified wavelength, has the correct optical density (OD), and allows enough visible light transmission (VLT) for you to perform your work safely. Workers can purchase laser eyewear in the form of goggles, spectacles, or wraps. Laser eyewear may also need to be impact resistant (ANSI Z87 compliant).

Welding masks provide protection for the eyes and face. Welding masks should be utilized when the eyes are exposed to UV radiation. Use manufacturer information when selecting the proper shade of lens.

Tinted Lenses

Use ANSI Z136 compliant eyewear.

Welding Mask

Use ANSI Z87 compliant eyewear.

A Face Shield Is Not A Substitute For Eye Protection

Face Protection

A full face shield must be used for protection when the face could be damaged by: Moving Objects (i.e. flying or swinging objects); Injurious Liquid Chemicals that are Toxic, Corrosive, Heated, or Cryogenic; or Radiant Energy (UV Light, Some Lasers, & High Heat)

Use a polycarbonate face shield in situations 1, 2, and while using an Eximer laser. Note: Some polycarbonate face shields have chemical resistant coatings Use a welding hood with properly shaded lens for welding Use a polycarbonate face shield with reflective coating for minor radiant heat (an aluminized hood may need to be used for protection against high heat exposures)

Pre-use Inspection Criteria Dispose of eye and/or face protection if you find: Broken or damaged components. Elastic straps that are excessively worn or spitting. Lenses and face shields are scratched in a manner that will obstruct vision.

Hand Protection

Hand protection must be used when the hands are exposed to: Chemicals that are toxic or corrosive; Severe cuts or lacerations; Severe abrasions; Punctures; Extreme temperatures; and/or Electrical Hazards

(not comprehensive)

Types of Hand Protection & Use

Chemical Resistant Gloves: Butyl Rubber Natural Rubber Neoprene Nitrile PVC PVA Polyethylene Viton Silver Shield Laminated Film Rubber Blends Etc.

Chemical resistant gloves are used to protect against toxic or corrosive chemicals. It may be necessary to wear one type of glove over another type to provide adequate protection against a mixture of chemicals (i.e. phenol / chloroform mixtures).

Use manufacturer information to select the proper Chemical Protective Clothing for the chemicals being used. Glove manufacturer information is available by accessing the internet links provided at safety.byu.edu/Gloves.htm

Pre-use Inspection Criteria for Chemical Protective Gloves (and other chemical protective clothing) Replace hand protection if you find: Cracks Bubbling Hardening Discoloration Rips/cuts Pin-holes Microbial Growth (bad odor emanating from the glove) Barrier creams should not be substituted for gloves

1

2

3

To check chemical resistant gloves for pinholes, simply blow into the glove and fill it with air. While holding the opening of the filled glove closed with one hand, squeeze the glove and watch for signs of escaping air with your other hand.

Cut Resistant Gloves: Kevlar

Utilized by workers who handle glass, box cutters, and other sharp objects. Use is common among kitchen workers.

Lead Lined Gloves

Used to protect workers hands from exposure to x-rays and other high frequency electromagnetic waves.

Heat Resistant Gloves: Ceramic Fiber Insulated Neoprene Aluminized Insulated Cotton Leather

Used by foundry workers (leather and aluminized), kitchen personnel (insulated neoprene), and other workers whose hands are exposed to sources of heat that can damage the skin (exposure to molten plastic – use ceramic fiber gloves).

(No Picture)

Puncture Resistant Gloves Steel Mesh

Used by workers who handle animals.

Abrasion Resistant Gloves Leather

Used by workers who handle rough cut lumber, rocks, and other abrasive objects.

(No Picture)

Thermal Insulated Gloves

Gloves that provide insulation when handling cold materials or when exposed to cold temperatures.

Notice:

Thin Latex Exam Gloves can be used to protect hands from biological agents. These gloves should not be used to protect against corrosive chemicals, or chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin (most organics). Note: Some people have an allergic reaction to latex. Avoid using latex gloves. Thin nitrile gloves can be used in place of thin latex.

See the following information provided by VWR safety for information regarding thin latex glove use: http://www.vwrsp.com/safety/pdf/2003-july_glove_selection.pdf

Pre-use Inspection Criteria for Gloves Not Used For Chemical Protection Replace gloves when you find: Cracks Cuts Hardening Tears Microbial Growth (smells)

Foot Protection

Foot protection must be used when the feet are exposed to: Toxic or corrosive chemicals; Severe cuts or lacerations; Falling or Rolling Objects; Piercing Objects; Extreme temperatures; and/or Electrical Hazards

Types of Foot Protection

Chemical resistant footwear must be used anytime the feet are exposed to corrosive chemicals, or chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin. Use manufacturer information when selecting the proper boots.

Hard toe boots must be used anytime work is performed where there is a danger of injury due to falling, rolling, or severely lacerating objects. Hard toes are constructed of metal or acrylics. Boot materials are available in leather, synthetic leather, chemical resistant materials, or cut resistant materials such as Kevlar (for chain saw use and similar activities).

Chemical Resistant

Hard Toe Boots

Use ANSI Z41 compliant footwear.

Footwear having a reinforced sole must be utilized anytime work is performed where there is a danger of injury due to piercing objects.

PVC boots can be used for water resistance, and can be used for slip resistance.

Reinforced Sole

Use ANSI Z41 compliant footwear.

Water Resistant

Metatarsal protection must be utilized anytime work is performed where there is danger of falling or rolling objects, which could damage the top of the foot.

Used to guard against dust contamination.

Metatarsal Protection

Shoe Covers

Slip resistant shoes should be used where there is a danger of slipping. Note: Other measures, such as installation of slip resistant tiles, should be taken prior to requiring the use of slip resistant footwear.

Used to protect against electrical hazards. Note: Specific training is needed for individuals using electrical resistant personal protective equipment.

Slip Resistant

Electrical Resistance

Help Notes for Foot Protection

Chemical Protective Boot Materials In General:

Regarding Leather Footwear & Chemical Protection:

In general this type of footwear can be used to protect against chemical exposure to most: Ketones Aldehydes Alcohols Acids Salts Alkalies

Leather and synthetic leather footwear should not be used for protection against corrosive or toxic chemical splashes or spills. Leather and synthetic leather will absorb chemicals spilled onto them, and then hold the chemical against the skin.

Butyl Rubber

In general this type of footwear can be used to protect against chemical exposure to most: Solvents Acids Alkalies Salts Grease

Vinyl Rubber

In general this type of footwear can be used to protect against chemical exposure to most: Oil Fats Chemicals

Nitrile Rubber

Pre-use Inspection Criteria for Foot Protection Replace Footwear If You Find: Cracks Bubbling Hardening Discoloration Rips/cuts/holes Microbial Growth (smells) Severe Cracks Severe Cuts/Tears/Rips Microbial Growth (bad odor)

Examples Of Other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Available For Use

Torso and Full Body Protective Clothing

Leg Coverings

Arm Coverings

Chemical Protective Clothing is available for those who have whole body exposure to chemical gases, liquids, or dusts. To select this type of protection please use manufacturer information. Chemical Resistant Aprons are available for those persons working with liquid chemicals that are corrosive, hot, cryogenic, or those liquid chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin and that can splash onto the torso. Aluminized Clothing can be purchased for work situations where the body is exposed to heat that is capable of burning the skin. Welding Leathers are available to keep workers from receiving skin burns from sparks, and small hot pieces of metal. Flak Jacket can be used to help stop objects from penetrating the body.

Kevlar Chaps are available for workers who are using a chainsaw or other equipment that may cause a severe leg laceration. Chemical Protective Pants are available for those who have leg exposure to liquid chemicals. Please use the manufacturer’s information to select a pair of chemical protective pants. Aluminized Pants can be purchased for work situations where the legs are exposed to heat that is capable of burning the skin. Leather Chaps are available for protection against flying particles (sand blasting)

Chemical Protective Vest or Sleeves are available for workers who have arm exposure to liquid chemicals. Please use the manufacturer’s information to select a pair of chemical protective sleeves. Aluminized Vest or Sleeves can be purchased for work situations where the arms are exposed to heat that is capable of burning the skin. Kevlar Sleeves are available for workers who are exposed to lacerating objects that could lacerate the arms. Leather Vest or Sleeves are available for welding activities.

Pre-Use Inspection Criteria Use manufacturer recommendations for determining when to dispose of personal protective equipment.

Note Regarding Removal of Contaminated Personal Protective Equipment

When removing contaminated personal protective equipment (ppe) be sure to use a technique that helps you prevent contamination of your skin, and prevents generation of aerosols. Don’t grasp the exterior of personal protective equipment that may be contaminated (chemical, biological, or other hazardous material) with a bare hand or fingers.

-Final Note-

Thank you for taking the time to review this online personal protective equipment information. Remember, supervisors must provide training regarding the use of personal protective equipment used by their workers.