Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coat, generic safety glasses, and prescription safety glasses and safety shoes, is often needed to assure an employee is adequately protected from hazards associated with the work they are doing. There are detailed OSHA regulations re: PPE. This section provides information to address these requirements and delineates the process for determining and selecting suitable PPE for a work area or task.
PPE Hazard Assessment
The OSHA regulations begin with general requirements for the selection of appropriate PPE, which entails a written hazard assessment. Once appropriate equipment is determined, the user must be provided equipment that fits, and be trained in the proper use and maintenance of the equipment.
Written Hazard Assessment
To determine PPE needs, a written hazard assessment is required that identifies the specific hazards of concern either by work area, job, or task; and the PPE required for protection from those hazards. Use the forms below for conducting a hazard assessment.
- PPE Hazard Assessment Form (DOC) or equivalent for all PPE except Respiratory Protection Equipment
- Respiratory Protection Equipment Hazard Assessment Form for concern about inhalation hazards where a respirator may be needed.
Fit Of PPE.
Personnel should be provided with PPE that fits correctly.
Maintenance And Storage Of PPE
Disposable PPE should not be reused. Reusable PPE should be cleaned with soap and water after use, dried, and stored in a manner that will keep it clean when not in use.
Limitations Of PPE.
All PPE has limitations and these limitations must be taken into consideration when selecting PPE as part of the hazard assessment. Details on limitations are provided in equipment specific sections. Employees should be informed of the limitations of the equipment, as noted below.
Training About Proper Use And Maintenance Of PPE.
All employees who use PPE must be provided job specific training by the employee’s supervisor or area safety representatives about:
- the hazards
- the protective equipment to be used
- the correct use and care of the PPE
- the limitations of the equipment
EHS Office Assistance.
EHS is available to provide assistance with the hazard assessment, selection of PPE, and development of training materials. Contact EHS at 2-EHSS when assistance is needed. For additional information on specific personal protective equipment items, follow the links: gloves, lab coat, generic safety glasses, and prescription safety glasses and safety shoes