PPE Selection

Once the need for PPE has been established, the employer's next task is to select the proper type. Supervisors should determine the following criteria:

• The degree of protection required
• The appropriateness of the equipment to the situation

Certain factors contribute to the selection of PPE, as follows:

• Its overall efficiency
• Its wearability
• Its acceptance by the workers

Supervisors should adhere to the following guidelines for selecting PPE:

• Choose the right PPE to match the hazard.
• Consider risk assessment, worker acceptance, and types of PPE available.
• Involve workers in the evaluations. Workers should be able to select among two or three models, allowing for personal preferences.
• Consider the physical comfort of the PPE. Poorly fitted PPE is unlikely to be worn.
• Evaluate cost considerations. Some programs use disposable respirators because they are inexpensive. Engineering controls might also be a cost-effective solution and should be considered before PPE.
• Various PPE standards exist, and the most recent should be used for guidance.
• Check the fit. In some cases, individual fitting programs should be carried out by qualified personnel.
• Perform regular maintenance. Maintenance should include inspection, care, cleaning, repair, and proper storage of the PPE.
• Conduct education and training. Education and training should cover why PPE is important, how to fit and wear PPE, how to adjust PPE for maximum protection, and how to care for PPE.
• A workplace where PPE is used consistently and effectively requires ongoing support from management, safety and medical personnel, supervisors, the health and safety committee, individual workers, and even the suppliers of the chosen PPE.
• Monitor the effectiveness of the PPE use by inspecting the equipment and auditing the procedures. Annual audits of PPE use are common, but it may be advisable to review critical areas more frequently.

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