In the dynamic landscape of occupational safety, the proper utilization of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) stands as a cornerstone in safeguarding workers against potential hazards. However, navigating the realm of PPE requires a discerning approach to avoid common pitfalls that could compromise both safety and effectiveness. This exploration delves into "7 Mistakes to Avoid About PPE," shedding light on critical errors that, when overlooked, can undermine the very purpose of protective gear. From misselection to inadequate maintenance, this guide aims to equip employers, employees, and safety officers with insights to enhance PPE practices and foster a secure working environment.
Comfort over Safety
Certainly, while the ideal scenario envisions PPE providing employees with both optimal protection and utmost wearer comfort, as the individual accountable for PPE, it is crucial to establish clear priorities. The paramount goal of PPE remains the safeguarding of health and safety against potential risks. This commitment is underscored by the fact that only PPE products meeting the safety standards outlined in the new EU PPE Regulation 2016/425 are permissible for sale within the European Union, a regulation in effect since April 2018.
Notwithstanding, safety experts concur that, in most instances, elevated levels of wearer comfort contribute to a heightened willingness to adhere to PPE usage. Additionally, a notable trend in the market involves PPE products offering supplementary benefits beyond their primary protective function. Illustrative instances encompass safety helmets equipped with radio reception or earmuffs featuring telephony functions. These innovations not only enhance safety but also add extra value to the overall user experience, potentially fostering greater compliance with PPE protocols.
Inadequate Care or Cleaning of the PPE
Adhering to the respective manufacturer specifications plays a pivotal role in the proper care and maintenance of PPE, with the PSA-BV outlining essential obligations for both employers and employees. According to § 2(4), employers are mandated "to ensure the maintenance, repair and replacement as well as proper storage of the PPE, so that it functions properly and remains in a hygienic condition throughout its period of use."
In practice, it is advised against taking PPE home for cleaning, as standard domestic washing machines are ill-equipped to handle the types of dirt encountered in industrial, construction site, or laboratory settings. Notably, cleaning work clothing or PPE contaminated with microbes at home is explicitly prohibited due to the potential introduction of pathogenic biochemicals into personal environments.
Moreover, the repercussions of the wrong choice of washing program, temperature, detergent, or fabric softener can be detrimental to the protective efficacy of PPE. For instance, antistatic PPE may lose its dissipative capacity, flame-retardant impregnations could be removed, and reflective stripes may become detached. Therefore, a meticulous approach to cleaning in accordance with manufacturer guidelines is imperative to preserve the integrity and safety features of the PPE.
Neglecting to Check and Maintain the PPE
Most PPE products should be inspected at least once a year by a competent professional. Inspection intervals for PPE vary and may even be significantly shorter than expected, depending on the intensity of use and the manufacturer’s specifications.
The key factor is usually the category specified in accordance with the PSA-BV with which individual components of the PPE are classified. The PSA-BV also indicates a product’s hazard classification. The categories range from I to III. Especially for PPE in the highest category, which is intended to protect against a lethal hazard, a particularly thorough inspection with regular maintenance intervals is essential. This category mainly includes protective equipment for fall, respiratory or chemical protection.
But it’s not only employers or PPE officers who have obligations in this regard. The PSA-BV also requires employees to carry out a visual and functional check before each use of the PPE and to immediately report any defects found to those responsible in the company. In general, PPE should be carefully checked after a cleaning procedure at the latest. For many PPE components, manufacturers provide reliable information on service life and proper storage.
Failure to Individually Adapt the PPE
While casual clothing might allow for flexibility in sizing, the precision of fit is crucial when it comes to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as stipulated by § 2 of the PSA-BV. Further elaboration on this requirement is provided by the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) in Rule 112-189, titled “Use of protective clothing”:
"Protective clothing is personal protective equipment designed to protect the torso, arms, and legs from harmful conditions at work."
This rule explicitly prohibits the use of protective clothing that is either too short or not coordinated with other PPE components. Moreover, it emphasizes the necessity of adapting PPE to "the ergonomic and health-related requirements of the user(s)." This extends to considerations such as accommodating orthopedic foot correctors for shoes, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored fit.
Taking into account potential employee allergies is another critical aspect highlighted in the selection of PPE. The attention to detail in fitting and coordination ensures not only compliance with regulations but also enhances the overall effectiveness of protective measures in safeguarding workers against workplace hazards.
One Item of PPE, Multiple Wearers
Legally, the situation is unequivocal. As per § 2 Paragraph 2 of the PSA-BV, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is designated for the use of a single individual. In instances where special circumstances necessitate the use of PPE by different employees, the onus lies on the employer to ensure that there are no hygiene or health hazards, or if present, that they are adequately addressed and mitigated.
However, a crucial caveat exists: specific PPE items, such as safety harnesses, must be tailored to the individual in terms of size and fit or possess the capability for individual adjustment. This underscores the importance of not only adhering to legal requirements but also ensuring the practical and personalized effectiveness of PPE, particularly in cases where shared usage may be a consideration.
No or Incomplete PPE Training
Effective and legally compliant safety training on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is irreplaceable for employers or those with legal responsibilities for PPE (refer to § 12 ArbSchG; § 4 DGUV Regulation 1; § 3 PSA-BV). This training typically relies on information provided by manufacturers.
To ensure thorough coverage of key aspects and content, a well-structured written schedule proves invaluable. In this schedule, the following key points should be defined:
Responsible Persons:
Identification of participants and occupational health & safety professionals involved in the training.
Training Session Dates:
Establishment of session dates, including planning and ongoing adaptation to internal changes in working conditions.
Training Session Content:
Detailed outline of content, incorporating operating instructions as a guiding framework for the training sessions.
Documentation:
Creation of a systematic documentation process encompassing training session dates, materials used, and comprehensive lists of participants.
By delineating these key points, the written schedule not only serves as a roadmap for comprehensive safety training but also facilitates accountability, adaptability, and effective documentation of the training process.
Employee Obligations Not Met
As previously highlighted in "Mistake 3," despite ongoing checks and comprehensive training on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), employees must consistently visually inspect and function-test their PPE before each use. This proactive approach is vital for the immediate identification of damage and faults, enabling prompt reporting to superiors.
Whether it's detecting cracks in safety helmets, issues with safety goggles, or defective pads on earmuffs, establishing an open and proactive dialogue between PPE managers and wearers is instrumental in minimizing potential hazards. Short reporting channels are essential for swift resolution of PPE problems.
For more in-depth information, consider attending one of our occupational safety seminars at the uvex academy. The uvex academy regularly offers training courses on PPE and occupational safety, providing a valuable opportunity to enhance your knowledge and practices in ensuring workplace safety.
Conclusion：
In concluding our journey through the intricacies of PPE, it becomes evident that steering clear of common mistakes is paramount in ensuring the efficacy of protective measures.If you want to know more about PPE, please contact Dursafety, we can answer more questions and provide you with high-quality products!
