What types of PPE are available?

Every factory employee uses personal protective equipment (PPE) as standard when working with harmful substances such as oil. From the basic level of protection, which is covering the hands with a pair of gloves, to all over chemical suits, the level of protection that you use is determined by the job you are doing.

PPE should be made easily available for all employees to use and should be kept in a location that is easily accessible. One employee should be given the duty of making sure that the stock of PPE is maintained and PPE that may be used multiple times, such as goggles, should be regularly checked for any defects. Requests for different types of PPE should always be looked into and improvements to the equipment used should be part of the duty holder’s responsibility.

What types of PPE can I buy?

• Safety goggles - Protection for the eyes when using rotating drilling equipment. Also provide some protection from liquid splashes.

• Nitrile gloves - Protection for the hands from oil, chemicals and general factory grime. They can also be worn when handling food.

• Protective overalls - Full body protection from factory contaminants such as oil and grease.

It’s important for every employee to take responsibility for their own health and safety. And using PPE is a step in the right direction.