How do I Select PPE?

When selecting and using PPE:

• Select CE-marked products as per the Personal Protective Equipment (Enforcement) Regulations 2018. Suppliers can guide you in choosing the right items.
• Select PPE based on size, fit, and weight for each user. Involving users in the selection process increases the likelihood that they will use the equipment.
• Always check that PPE items can be used together. For example, safety glasses may interfere with a respirator’s seal, resulting in air leaks.
• Instruct and train people how to use it. So, for example, train people to remove gloves without contaminating their skin. Tell them why it is needed, when to use it and what its limitations are.

Maintenance and Monitoring

It’s important to maintain your PPE. Broken or worn PPE won’t protect and may result in liability during accidents. Employees need to report any PPE defects.

Things you should think about including:

• Storing it in the right conditions, such a dry, air-tight cupboard
• Make sure you keep replacement parts, preferably original parts in stock, or have them readily available.
• A named person should oversee all PPE maintenance, and a procedure for this in place to avoid and confusion.
• It can be useful to have signs to remind people that PPE is required to be used.
• Even if a task is only going to take a ‘minute’, employees should still be encouraged to wear PPE.

Injury Areas that PPE could prevent:

• The lungs – from breathing in contaminated air.
• The head and feet – from falling materials.
• The eyes – from flying particles or splashes of corrosive liquids.
• The skin – from contact with corrosive materials.
• The body – for example from extremes of heat or cold.

The Importance of PPE

Proper use of PPE is key to keeping your team safe. Regularly checking and using the right gear can prevent accidents and injuries. Don’t take safety lightly. Equip your team with the best PPE to avoid accidents.