Welcome to Safety and Health Week! All week long, Occupational Health and Safety Services will be posting health and safety information in the Communiqué. Be sure to keep an eye on these posts, as there will be a chance to win some prizes at the end of the week.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is one of many options to control or minimize the risk of exposure to an occupational hazard. While priority is given to other means to reduce risk, such as eliminating or isolating the hazard, or changing the way that we work, PPE is sometimes required. Depending on the hazard that needs to be addressed, there are different types of PPE that may be required. Below are some examples:
- Hearing protection (ear plugs and earmuffs) – high noise environments.
- Fall protection – working at heights.
- Respiratory protection – exposure to airborne contaminants.
- Chemical protective clothing, including gloves – working with hazardous materials.
- Eye and face protection – splash hazards and flying objects or particles/dust.
- Hard hats – work on construction sites or where an overhead hazard is present.
- Safety footwear – work associated with a risk of a foot injury.
Your supervisor is responsible for determining when and what type of PPE is required for your work and for ensuring that all workers are trained on the proper selection, use, care, maintenance, and storage of the PPE. If any assistance is needed with regards to appropriate PPE selection and training requirements, please email healthandsafety@humber.ca for assistance.
Remember: PPE is only effective if you wear it properly and consistently. Always follow the instructions and training provided to you with regards to using PPE.
Photo Contest Tip: If you are required to wear PPE on the job at Humber, send us a picture of you wearing your PPE properly.