Personal Protective Equipment

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 or goggles, and footwear.

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.

Please note that this course is not intended to fully cover PPE and its use, just how it is important to dealing with biological hazards. You will need to take a separate course on PPE.

PPE should be issued if the worker does not have what is required. It should be inspected, fitted properly, and tested. The worker should be trained on the proper use of PPE.

The following are what workers need to know about PPE:

• Selection (based on hazards and environment)
• Inspection (check for damage or wear)
• Fit (put it on and adjust it, especially with other PPE that must be worn)
• Test (in cases of equipment such as respirators)
• Use
• Cleaning and storage

Understand that when you wear PPE, it can hinder your range of motion and senses. Always wear required PPE, making sure it is adjusted properly. Never sacrifice safety for comfort.

To learn more about Outdoor Biological Hazards visit our Outdoor Biological Hazards Online Training web page.