Hazard Control
Eliminating hazards through engineering or administrative control measures is the primary and preferred method of providing personal protection. These control methods provide better and more consistent protection than relying on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) alone. Even if PPE will be required, it is preferable for the PPE to be used in conjunction with engineering and/or administrative controls.
Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to any safety gear worn to protect from hazards in a work environment. Any given type of PPE may come in a wide variety of configurations, materials, sizes, shapes, and styles. Often, the variety in PPE stems from the specific nature of the hazard it must protect against. Examples of PPE include (but are not limited to):
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Face shields
- Earplugs
- Lab coats
When selecting PPE for a specific job task, it is important to choose a product that will protect individuals from the hazards present. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) can help when selecting PPE to guard against chemical hazards. EHS can also evaluate job tasks to confirm that appropriate equipment is selected and used.
Hazard Assessment
Each department has the responsibility to review all of its employees' work sites for Personal Protective Equipment needs. The regulations, the degree of hazard, and the engineering or administrative controls that are in place will determine what PPE is needed. If departments will be using PPE for personnel hazards, the following items must be completed:
- Assess the workplace for hazards.
- Select appropriate PPE.
- Ensure PPE is used.
- Ensure employees are trained in PPE use through the UNE PPE training program.
- EHS will document the assessment, selection, and training (UNE Job Hazard Assessment form).
When the hazard assessment indicates that PPE is required, employing departments must provide the required PPE to employees free of charge.
If a hazard does not require PPE, other regulations or programs may apply.