Mandatory PPE for Post-Tensioning Cable Handling and Testing

The following outlines the mandatory personal protective equipment (PPE) required for the safe handling and testing of post-tensioning cables. This PPE is essential to minimize the risk of injuries resulting from cable failure or the sudden release of tension. It is crucial to adhere to these guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.

Eye Protection

Safety glasses with side shields or chemical safety goggles are mandatory to protect against flying debris or accidental release of materials during cable handling and testing. In situations where there is a higher risk of splashes or debris, a face shield should be used in conjunction with safety goggles for comprehensive eye and face protection.

Hand Protection

Chemical-resistant, impervious gloves complying with an approved standard should be worn at all times when handling chemical products if a risk assessment indicates this is necessary. Considering the parameters specified by the glove manufacturer, check during use that the gloves are still retaining their protective properties. It should be noted that the time to breakthrough for any glove material may be different for different glove manufacturers. In the case of mixtures, consisting of several substances, the protection time of the gloves cannot be accurately estimated.

Suitable materials for safety gloves include:

Polychloroprene - CR: thickness >=0,5mm; breakthrough time >=480min
Nitrile rubber - NBR: thickness >=0,35mm; breakthrough time >=480min
Butyl rubber - IIR: thickness >=0,5mm; breakthrough time >=480min

The selection of glove material should be based on the specific chemicals and materials being handled, ensuring adequate protection against potential skin contact and absorption.

Body Protection

Personal protective equipment for the body should be selected based on the task being performed and the risks involved and should be approved by a specialist before handling this product. When there is a risk of ignition from static electricity, wear anti-static protective clothing. For the greatest protection from static discharges, clothing should include anti-static overalls, boots and gloves.

Foot Protection

Appropriate footwear and any additional skin protection measures should be selected based on the task being performed and the risks involved and should be approved by a specialist before handling this product.

Respiratory Protection

Respirator selection must be based on known or anticipated exposure levels, the hazards of the product and the safe working limits of the selected respirator. If workers are exposed to concentrations above the exposure limit, they must use appropriate, certified respirators. Use a properly fitted, air-purifying or air-fed respirator complying with an approved standard if a risk assessment indicates this is necessary. The respiratory protection shall be in accordance to 29 CFR 1910.134.

Hygiene Measures

Wash hands, forearms and face thoroughly after handling chemical products, before eating, smoking and using the lavatory and at the end of the working period. Appropriate techniques should be used to remove potentially contaminated clothing. Wash contaminated clothing before reusing. Ensure that eyewash stations and safety showers are close to the workstation location.