Personal protective equipment (PPE) helps to protect the wearer while they are in the middle of an activity. This applies to oven gloves and aprons, as well as masks and other items that people wear.
Typically, that’s used in workplace settings. In fact, there has been a lot of emphasis on this equipment in the last two years because its role is important in settings where workers are at risk of being exposed to hazards to their health.
But how important is PPE in the day-to-day? And when is PPE needed?
The role of PPE
From offices to construction sites, the workplace can be hazardous. There are trip risks in offices where there is a lot of wiring and the potential risk of a fall from a ladder on a building site.
There are industries that are more hazardous than others, too. For instance, if you’re a self-employed joiner or work in the surgical ward of a hospital, there are certain health and safety factors that won’t apply if you have a desk-based job.
However, whatever sector you work in, it’s crucial that both employers and employees are aware of anything that could lead to an accident at work and the clothing that could protect them. PPE can make someone more visible or add a protective layer, reducing the risk of serious injury or infection while on the job.
The different types of PPE
When investing in PPE, employers and employees need to look at what the most common risks are in the industry they work in and buy the right kit for the task.
For instance, safety helmets are a key requirement on a building site as there is a higher risk of objects falling or low beams getting in the way. For those who run a car garage or work in construction, gloves protect hands from saws and other equipment.
The main types of PPE include eye protection, gloves, respiratory equipment, hi-vis clothing, hard hats and helmets, and safety footwear. There are other types that you may need to add, depending on the sector your work in.
When you’ll see PPE
There are some common instances where you’ll see people wearing PPE. We’ve already mentioned building and construction sites, where there will be workers wearing helmets, bright hi-vis jackets, and hard-toe boots.
There’s also healthcare settings. Here, you’ll see masks, aprons, and surgical hats and gloves worn by medical staff. This is to prevent any blood or bodily fluids getting on their skin.
Another example is people who work outdoors, such as landscapers and tree surgeons. Again, you’ll see them in protective gloves and perhaps padded knee supports too.
Do you need PPE at work? What will you need to invest in?
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