Personal protective equipment (PPE) can protect workers from hazards, reducing the number of industrial accidents.
The experienced Gastonia workers’ compensation lawyers at Horton & Mendez Injury Attorneys explain the importance of PPE in the workplace and what you need to know.
What is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is clothing, devices, or other items that an individual can wear that helps them stay safe while performing a task. It minimizes or prevents exposure to something that may cause illness or injury on the job.
While there may be multiple ways to reduce hazards on the job, PPE is something that an individual can do for themselves to minimize risk. Its use may be required or optional, depending on safety standards, employee policy, and the specific risks of a job.
What is the purpose of PPE?
PPE makes the workplace safer and more comfortable. When used correctly, PPE can minimize potential exposures and ultimately reduce workplace illness and injury.
Common Types of PPE in Industrial Settings
PPE varies from job to job. However, there are some types of PPE that are commonly worn in industrial settings:
- Safety vests—A safety vest can make a person visible. Where there is vehicular traffic, a safety vest can help others see the person. Safety vests reflect light and are visible from a farther distance than most other clothing. There are different classes of safety vests for different working environments.
- Helmets—Where there is a danger of objects falling, helmet use is appropriate. Helmets can also protect from overhead electrical hazards and trip and fall injuries. A helmet may protect from blows to the top of the head, sides, or from voltage, depending on the needs of the job.
- Eye protection—Eye protection can protect a person from objects that may strike the eye, dust, and other small particles that may be irritants. Glasses should be free of cracks, warping, or deformity.
- Ear plugs—For some industrial workers, one of the greatest dangers is noise.
- Gloves—Gloves can help someone with grip. They may protect a person’s hands from bruising or cuts. In addition, gloves can serve as a protection for working with waste or chemicals.
- Face shields—A face shield can protect someone who is working with biohazards.
- Respiratory protection, masks—A mask may be a simple face covering, an N95 respirator, or a full-face breathing apparatus. Masks can prevent harmful chemicals from entering the body and can prevent biohazards from transmitting to others and to the environment. Masks should not be shared, and they should be replaced when damaged or dirty.
- Boots and footwear—Proper footwear can prevent crushing injuries to the feet. Additional grips may be used to prevent trip and fall accidents.
- Knee pads—Knee pads can prevent burns and bruising when a job requires working on the knees.
- Body protection and body coverings—A medical gown may be appropriate for working with human biohazards and other dangerous chemicals.
- Safety belts and nets—A safety belt or net can provide fall protection.
- Life jackets—When workers are on or near water, life vests may be appropriate.
Effectiveness of PPE in Accident Prevention
OSHA reports that, when used properly, PPE is effective to prevent 37.6% of occupational injuries and diseases. Up to 14% of workplace injuries causing complete disability could be prevented with proper PPE.
A report published by Med Lav says that safety training is an important predictor of PPE compliance. The report says that there is a correlation with PPE use and reduced accidents and incidents causing injury. They recommend enforcing PPE in the construction industry as an injury-reducing measure. The study acknowledges that other factors, such as employee attitudes towards safety, safe workplace systems, and anticipation of hazards, are also important.
The efficacy of PPE depends on its consistent and correct use. The employer should periodically review the use of PPE in the workplace and update practices as necessary.
Proper Use and Maintenance of PPE
To be effective, a person must use:
- The right PPE
- In the right size
- Used properly
- When it is needed
A person using PPE must understand its limitations. PPE can’t prevent all accidents. It must be taken care of and removed from service if it is worn or defective. Employees must be trained on when and how to use PPE. An employer should promote a culture of safety through employee training, reminders, and penalties for workers who do not comply with PPE directives.
If employees provide their own PPE, employers should make sure that it is adequate, maintained, and sanitized. Federal OSHA regulations require employers to pay for PPE when it is required by standards. However, they are not required to pay for steel-toe boots or non-specialty prescription safety eyewear if these items are permitted to be worn off the job site.
Regulations and Standards for PPE in North Carolina
The North Carolina Department of Labor has created standards for use of personal protective equipment in the workplace. The employer must require PPE when it is appropriate. For example, if employees are exposed to foot hazards like heavy equipment or falling objects, they must wear safety-toe footwear. There are standards for what footwear meets the requirements.
Although PPE is vitally important, the NC Department of Labor instructs that it should never be the only means to control workplace hazards. An employer must take reasonable steps to ensure a safe workplace and prevent harm. Employers are instructed to document worker training and ensure that workers understand the importance of PPE.
Contact an Experienced Gastonia Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you have been hurt in the workplace, we invite you to contact an experienced Gastonia workers’ compensation lawyer. Horton & Mendez Injury Attorneys can investigate how PPE may have been a factor in your accident. We can make sure that you get the benefits and compensation due to you under the law.
We know how employers try to minimize workplace injuries to avoid paying benefits. We will fight for you and your case. Call or message us now.
