Personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a crucial role in protecting employees from workplace hazards. Conducting thorough PPE hazard assessments ensures workers are adequately protected during all work tasks. This article provides a step-by-step guide to carrying out effective PPE assessments in your workplace.
What is a PPE Hazard Assessment?
A PPE hazard assessment systematically identifies hazards employees may encounter while performing their jobs. It helps determine the right types of PPE required to mitigate those risks. Assessments consider potential hazards like sharp objects, noise, chemicals, falls, and more. They also take into account how long workers are exposed and the likelihood of injury occurring.
Legal Requirements
In the UK, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to provide suitable PPE free of charge if hazards cannot be fully controlled by other means. Before selecting PPE, a suitable and sufficient assessment must identify the risks, who is at risk, and which parts of the body need protection. Assessments should be reviewed regularly or if work procedures or equipment change.
Conducting a PPE Hazard Assessment
Follow these key steps when carrying out a hazard assessment for PPE:
Identify Hazards – Walk through all work areas and take note of potential hazards requiring PPE like noise, chemical exposure, objects falling from height, etc. Consult safety data sheets, equipment manuals and accident records.
Evaluate Risk Levels – Determine the chance of injury occurring from each hazard as well as potential injury severity. Consider how long and how frequently workers are exposed.
Select PPE Types – Choose appropriate PPE to mitigate identified risks. PPE should protect against the highest risk hazards first. Be sure to select certified equipment suitable for the task.
Trial PPE – Test PPE to verify it provides adequate protection. Ensure a comfortable fit and full freedom of movement. Consult workers to get feedback on comfort and fit.
Formalise Arrangements – Document the hazard assessment process and which PPE is required for various tasks. Establish proper PPE usage rules, training, storage, and maintenance procedures.
Review and Update – Review assessments regularly, especially after changes to work procedures and equipment, or once incident rates increase. Update selections and rules as needed.
Key PPE Types
Common forms of PPE identified via hazard assessments include:
- Head Protection – Hard hats protect against falling objects and electric shock. Bump caps cushion against bumps but don’t provide full protection.
- Eye & Face Protection – Safety glasses, goggles, and face shields protect eyes and face from chemical splashes, debris, and more.
- Hearing Protection – Earplugs, earmuffs, and acoustic helmets protect against harmful noise exposure.
- Hand & Arm Protection – Gloves shield against chemical or biological hazards, extreme temperatures, cuts, vibrations, and more.
- Protective Clothing – Aprons, safety harnesses, and high visibility clothing safeguard against environmental hazards.
- Protective Footwear – Safety shoes/boots with toe protection, slip resistance, and insulation prevent foot injuries.
Ensuring Success
Carrying out thorough PPE assessments is vital but means little without proper ongoing management. Provide adequate training on proper PPE usage and ensure equipment is readily accessible. Monitor compliance and replace worn or defective PPE promptly. Conducting effective PPE assessments reduces safety incidents and protects your most valuable assets – your people.
