PPE pain can be caused by frustration in acquiring the right PPE, getting the right fit for employees, or finding PPE that isn’t too hot or too binding. Pain felt by management can be from worker PPE non-compliance, or it can be as simple as cost. That same pain, however, can improve worker protection and build trust that the employer has workers’ best interests at heart. Even the other way around, the workers got each other back by ensuring that everyone would be protected.
” The costs of not having PPE can be far more costly—from medical bills and lost time to insurance increases and, in some cases, litigation.” Jamie Stokes – PCIAW News
Explore your options and be sure your PPE hazard assessment considers various types used at the same time.
Know the pros and cons of various features in all PPE categories:
- Gloves
- Safety goggles, face shields, glasses, spectacles and face shields
- Head Protection, Bump Caps, and Hard Hats
- Masks and Respirators
- Hearing Protection
- Overalls, Gowns, and leggings
- Safety Shoes, Steel-toe boots, and shoe covers
- Fall arrest systems
If possible, stick to just a few reputable vendors for purchasing PPE. While it may save money to buy your gloves from this vendor, glasses from another, and face shields from a third company, this will be hard to manage long-term. When it comes time to reorder or if you have issues, it will be much easier to deal with just one or two vendors. Customer service and quality products are just as important, if not more important, than the cost.
3 Easy Steps for selecting the correct PPE.
- Step 1 – Identify the Hazards
- Step 2 – Identify the Level of Protection
- Step 3 – Choose the correct fabric or materials for your PPE
- Step 4 – If you can’t pick the PPE ask the Professionals or your Vendor.
PPE SAFE LIVES! Make sure you and your co-workers are safe all day.
