PPE basic rules include:

• Use the right PPE for the job.

• Inspect PPE for damage before and after use.

• Clean PPE after each use.

• Replace defective equipment.

• Follow your facility’s safety rules.

BASIC RULES

• Safety glasses• Goggles• Face shields• Welding helmets• Laser eyewear.

Select shades and filters rated specifically for the job you’re doing. Check with your safety officer about using contact lenses and phototropic or variable-tinted lenses. They may be prohibited.

EYE PROTECTION

• Earplugs• Hearing bands• Earmuffs.

Protection is needed in any high noise area whether a sign is posted or not. Wear it!

HEARING PROTECTION

To properly insert earplugs:• Wash your hands.• Roll plug into a rod-like shape.• Pull back and upwards on ear.• Insert plug into ear canal.• Hold in for a few seconds.

After the job• Throw away disposable earplugs.• Clean reusable ear protection. • Store reusables away from damaging conditions.

HEARING PROTECTIONcontinued

There are two types of hard hats:• Type I – protects top of head• Type II – protects head from lateral, frontal, back and top impact

All hard hats should withstand up to 40 pounds of impact and comply with ANSI standards.

HEAD PROTECTION

There are three classes of hard hats:

• Class C – protects from falling objects

• Class E – protects from high voltage

electrical hazards as well as impact

• Class G – protects from low voltage

electrical hazards and impact.

HEAD PROTECTIONcontinued

• Hard hats should be worn parallel to the ground – not tilted up or down.

• To check hard hat fit, bend over with the hat on and shake your head. The hat should stay in place.

• Wash your hat’s suspension system every month and replace it annually.

• Never drop, throw, paint or drill into a hard hat.

HEAD PROTECTIONcontinued

Use appropriate gloves when working around:

• Chemicals• Abrasive or corrosive materials• Electrical equipment• Machinery hot spots• Hand tools.

With electricity, use a glove that’s rated one class higher than required to ensure adequate protection.

HAND PROTECTION

Store specialty gloves away from:• Light

• Temperature extremes

• Excessive humidity

• Other damaging substances and conditions.

HAND PROTECTIONcontinued

Protects against compression, impact, punctures, and chemical and electrical hazards.

Types:• Overboots• Over-the-sock boots• Work shoes or boots• Specialty footwear

FOOT PROTECTION

• Select the correct compression and impact rating to equal or exceed anticipated pounds of pressure.

• For correct fit, go by the size of your street shoes.

• Wear clean, dry 100 percent cotton socks.

• If damp, let footwear dry completely before wearing.

FOOT PROTECTIONcontinued