Types of Personal Protective Equipment

The following are some examples of personal protective equipment (PPE):

• Hard hats or safety helmets - Wear hard hats where falling objects could create a hazard.
• Protective gloves - Wear protective gloves when handling materials or performing work that might cause injury to the hands.
• Footwear - Wear suitable protective footwear to reduce or eliminate the risk of injury to the foot.
• Close-fitting clothing - Wear close-fitting clothing when working with or around moving machinery or equipment to prevent parts of the clothes getting caught in the equipment.
• Safety belts and lines - Wear safety belts and lines wherever there is danger of falling. Place a second person in charge of the lifeline when entering bins, tanks, or other dangerous areas.
• Dust masks or respirators - Use respirators in situations where overexposure to dust and other airborne particulates is a concern.

Using PPE is often essential, but it should be the last line of defense.

To learn more about MSHA Part 48 training requirements visit our MSHA Part 48 Subpart B Surface Mining Online Training web page.