Employers are responsible for identifying and mitigating workplace risks through a hierarchy of controls. Ideally, risks should be eliminated entirely. When elimination isn’t feasible, technical and engineering controls, safe work systems, and comprehensive training should be implemented. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should be considered a last resort, not a primary solution.
Unfortunately, some employers prioritize PPE over more effective preventative measures. This approach presents several significant problems:
* PPE only protects the individual wearing it, while source control measures protect everyone in the workplace.
* The theoretical maximum protection offered by PPE is rarely achieved in real-world conditions. Assessing the actual level of protection is often difficult.
* PPE ineffectiveness stems from improper fit, inadequate maintenance, incorrect usage, or unsuitability for the task.
* PPE can restrict movement and visibility, and the added weight can create health and safety issues. Discomfort can lead to workers discarding PPE, fostering a ‘blame the worker’ culture.
* Using PPE in hot environments can cause extreme discomfort, leading to dehydration, headaches, and even fainting. Examples include full-face masks or full-body protection worn in direct sunlight.
Common types of PPE include:
* Helmets and head protectors
* Earplugs and earmuffs for hearing protection
* Goggles and face shields for eye protection
* Respirators and breathing masks with various filters
* Gloves made of different materials
* Safety footwear
* Protective aprons, overalls, and clothing
* Wet weather gear
* Safety belts and lifelines
Even with technical controls and safe work systems, some residual hazards may persist, potentially causing injuries to:
* Lungs (e.g., from inhaling contaminated air)
* Head and feet (e.g., from falling objects)
* Eyes (e.g., from flying particles or corrosive liquid splashes)
* Ears (e.g., from excessive noise)
* Skin (e.g., from contact with corrosive substances)
* Body (e.g., from extreme temperatures)
In these situations, PPE is needed to supplement existing risk control measures, reducing the remaining risks to an acceptable level.