PPE

There are four main groupings of PPE, each of which addresses specific parts of the body that may be exposed to harmful substances or hazardous conditions:

1. Hands - Includes gloves, which are the most common type of PPE used in healthcare settings
2. Face - Includes masks, respirators, and face shields
3. Clothing - Includes gowns
4. Eyes - Includes safety spectacles, lenses, goggles, windows, and headgear

This list does not include every PPE option, but is instead a general presentation of the main types of PPE. All of these types of PPE, when used properly, reduce exposure to hazards by creating a barrier between the worker and the harmful material. Gloves protect the hands, gowns or aprons protect the skin and clothing, masks and respirators protect the mouth and nose, goggles protect the eyes, and face shields protect the entire face.

To learn more about Bloodborne Pathogens visit our Bloodborne Pathogens Safety Online Training web page.