Safe Work Procedure: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the selection, use, and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace. It applies to all employees who are required to use PPE to protect against hazards that cannot be eliminated through engineering or administrative controls.

This procedure is applicable in environments where employees are exposed to hazards such as chemical, radiological, physical, or mechanical irritants that can cause injury or impairment through absorption, inhalation, or physical contact.

Related procedures include hazard assessment and workplace safety protocols.

2. Definitions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses.

Hazard Assessment
A process to identify potential hazards in the workplace and determine the appropriate PPE to mitigate those hazards.

Fit Test
A test to ensure that a respirator fits the user properly and provides the intended protection.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Conduct hazard assessments to determine necessary PPE.
Ensure employees are trained in the use and maintenance of PPE.
Verify that PPE is used correctly and consistently.

3.2 Workers

Use PPE as instructed and maintain it in good condition.
Report any defects or issues with PPE to supervisors.
Participate in training sessions related to PPE use.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in conducting hazard assessments.
Monitor compliance with PPE requirements.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Chemical exposure	Skin or eye irritation, respiratory issues	Use of gloves, goggles, and respirators
Flying particles	Eye injury	Use of safety glasses with side protection
Loud noise	Hearing loss	Use of ear protection

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for safety in the workplace.

Safety Glasses - Protect eyes from flying particles and chemical splashes.
Gloves - Protect hands from chemical exposure and cuts.
Respirators - Protect against inhalation of harmful substances.
Ear Protection - Protect against hearing damage in noisy environments.
Hard Hats - Protect against head injuries from falling objects.

Inspect PPE before use and maintain it according to manufacturer instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

Proper equipment and tools are necessary for safe work practices.

Ventilation Systems - Ensure proper air quality and reduce exposure to airborne hazards.
Safety Showers and Eyewash Stations - Provide immediate decontamination in case of exposure.
Fire Extinguishers - Available for use in case of fire emergencies.

Inspect and maintain equipment regularly to ensure functionality.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Employees must be trained in the proper use, maintenance, and limitations of PPE.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Discuss potential hazards and required PPE before starting work.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean and free of unnecessary hazards.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Conduct Hazard Assessment

Identify potential hazards and determine necessary PPE.

Review workplace conditions.
Identify potential exposure risks.
Select appropriate PPE based on assessment.

Step 2: Donning PPE

Properly put on PPE before entering hazardous areas.

Inspect PPE for damage.
Ensure proper fit and comfort.
Follow manufacturer instructions for donning.

Step 3: Performing Work

Conduct work while wearing PPE.

Follow safety protocols.
Monitor PPE for any signs of failure.
Replace PPE if damaged or compromised.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Regular Inspections - Conduct regular inspections of PPE for damage.
Proper Storage - Store PPE in a clean, dry place.
Immediate Replacement - Replace damaged or defective PPE immediately.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Follow established emergency response procedures in case of an incident.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Chemical Spill - Use eyewash stations and safety showers.
Fire - Use fire extinguishers and evacuate if necessary.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report any incidents or near-misses to supervisors immediately. Participate in investigations to determine root causes and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart I - Personal Protective Equipment
ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2010 - Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]