PPE

Transporting lithium batteries on-board an aircraft can raise the risk for fire which can lead to burns. Personal protective equipment (PPE) keeps the airplane crew member safe when handling the potential hazards associated with transporting these devices. Airlines should provide PPE to employees, including fire gloves and PBE. Employers must also provide specific training for using the PPE based on specific job classifications, tasks, and procedures.

Other general guidelines regarding PPE are as follows:

• The PPE must be readily accessible and available to employees in appropriate sizes.
• The PPE must be properly used, cleaned, or replaced as needed or discarded.
• Disposable and reusable gloves should be replaced as soon as possible if they are torn, punctured, or when their ability to function as a barrier is compromised.
• Disposable gloves must not be reused.
• The PPE should be removed prior to leaving the work area.