There are many questions when it comes to personal protective equipment, or PPE. From what type is required, to level of protection for your task, we’re here to give you a leg up. We’ve gathered 7 commonly asked questions, and answers, about PPE.
Q: Let’s start with the basics. What is PPE?
A: PPE stands for personal protective equipment and is an umbrella term representing anything that an individual can wear to reduce health risks and safety hazards in the work place. This equipment can be anything: boots, respirators, helmets, hardhats, harnesses, ear plugs, and why we’re here today; gloves.
Q: When should I use PPE?
A: Each workplace will have a different guidelines and requirements for when you need to be wearing your PPE. Most of these guidelines should be falling in line with government regulations anyway. The most common way for employers to regulate PPE is as a back-up measure, meaning that it is mean to protect employees if other safety protocols fail.
Q: What PPE standard am I required to follow?
A: The PPE standards are different for each country! In the United States, we follow Occupational Safety and Health Act, also called OSHA. In addition, companies might have additional guidelines for employees must follow.
Q: Who determines what PPE I need to wear for my job?
A: The person who will dictate what type of PPE you need to wear on the job is your employer. However, it isn’t just an off the cuff decision, the determining factors are based firmly on the OSHA standards mentioned above.
Q: How do I choose the proper PPE for my job?
A: Your employer should have a predetermined list of approved PPE items for you to wear on the job. It is your employer’s job to assess the potential hazards and risks in the workplace and then select proper PPE for employees.
Q: What should I do if I get hurt while wearing PPE?
A: The first thing you should do if you get hurt while using proper PPE is notifying your manager and ensure you receive proper medical attention. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may be entitled to workers compensation, that will pay wages if you have to be out of work due to injury. If the injury is a result of a total accident, you must bring it to the attention of your manager. If you feel your injury is a result of negligence in the work place, you may have the right for legal action.
Q: What if I get hurt while I am NOT wearing PPE?
A: Similarly, to if you get injured while wearing PPE, you should also immediately contact your manager and seek proper medical attention. You will not, however have the same range of actions after your injury. You might be able to receive workers compensation, however your employer will not be held accountable for your injury because you were not wearing proper PPE.
When it comes to gloves as PPE, we are here to meet your needs!