7 Kinds of Personal Protective Equipment
Employers are responsible for a healthy and safe working environment for all their workers and should strive to understand the safety risks within their field. There are a lot of measures that employers can take to counteract some of these workplace-related hazards. One of these measures is having the personal protective equipment that can guarantee the health and safety of all workers. Personal protective equipment should always be used and in any situation that risks the health of a worker. However, workers should always observe instructions when using their protective gear, take care of them, and ensure that they provide sufficient protection. Here are seven types of personal protective equipment for the health and safety of your workers.
Eye Protectors
Eyes are a fragile and complex part of the body. Recent research reveals that at least 600 people across the globe sustain eye-related injuries while at work. However, some of these injuries are preventable with a quality and reliable pair of Quill Safety glasses. Safety glasses are essential equipment for all workers who work under infrared radiation or bright light conditions. A shield or welding goggles are an ideal eye protective equipment for workers exposed to extreme sun rays, such as welders and other field workers.
Safety for the Head
One way construction workers can prevent head injuries is wearing a helmet. However, workers should look for a sturdy helmet that fits the condition of the nature of their work. Helmets are now available in many elegant designs and come with additional features, including comfortable sweatbands and adjustable interior.
Respiratory Protection
Wearing dust masks have never been a luxury for workers that handle hazardous materials. A report on EU industries indicates that most workers inhale powder, vapor, dust, and smoke while at work. However, dust masks are an effective way to protect workers against dangerous chemicals and fine dust. Experts recommend full-face covers when handling toxic materials. A face shield ensures that germs do not get into the body through the nose, eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes. For example, doctors often wear a face shield when working on an operation where fluid could splash on their face to prevent infection.
Hearing Protection
Earplugs are a necessity for workers working in an environment with high levels of sound. Earplugs are comfortable to use and do not hamper the productivity of a worker. But experts recommend earmuffs for employees working on the floor because they are easier to put on and take off.
Feet Protection
Feet need protection for comfort and high productivity. Boots and safety shoes are the ideal solution for construction workers to protect their feet against sharp objects and heavy loads. You may need an anti skid sole when working in a damp environment. Several studies attribute 16% of all industrial accidents to sliding and tripping. Shoe claws are, on the other hand, recommended when working on slippery surfaces, including those with ice and snow. Special leg warmers and socks are recommended for extra protection when
working under cold condition.
Work Clothing
Employers are responsible for preventing accidents in crowded work environments. One way to achieve this is to invest in workplace visibility equipment. High visibility pants and jackets can help avoid a lot of accidents in a workshop. Like the ears, eyes, and hand protection equipment, high visibility jackets and pants are available in different versions for different uses.
Hands Protection
Fingers and hands often sustain injuries at workstations, which makes it vital to protect them. Workers can choose gloves for different applications, but this depends on their area of specialty. Gloves can protect hands against splashes from toxic materials, bacteriological risks, heat or cold, cuts by sharp objects, and vibration. Gloves are probably the type of personal protection equipment that is used almost everywhere. In the healthcare setting, for example, gloves are used for protecting both the caregiver and patient.
It takes little effort to observe the safety measures at the workplace. The safety of a workshop has a significant impact on the health of workers. Companies should, therefore, invest in safety training courses to keep their workers updated on potential work-related hazards and measures to combat them. Companies should never wait until someone gets injured to invest in personal protection equipment.
