PPE

If you are required to wear PPE because you work with or near crude oil, here are some types of gear you might need:

• Hard hat
• Safety goggles or glasses
• Respiratory protection
• Hearing protection (for working near loud machinery)
• Coveralls
• Protective gloves
• Work boots
• Fall protection (for working at heights)

Personal Protective Equipment (or PPE) is used when engineering controls and administrative controls have not completely reduced, removed, or isolated employee exposure to a hazard. It is the last measure of protection between a worker and a hazard.

PPE is special gear that provides a barrier between a hazard and the human body. Examples include hard hats, fire retardant clothing, gloves, ear plugs, safety shields and goggles, footwear, and other similar gear.

Workers must understand the types of hazards they face, and the appropriate PPE required. They must also understand the limitations of PPE. Even though it is a last line of defense against a hazard, it will not protect you in every situation.

To learn more about Crude Oil Hazards visit our Crude Oil Hazards Online Training web page.