Made for each other?
October 1st 2006

Recent research carried out by the HSE on RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases or Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) reports showed that mis-use, mis-selection, lack of maintenance and/or lack of training were major contributory causes in almost two-thirds (63%) of the 9000+ incidents mentioning PPE each year. One of the common problems found in the workplace is that PPE is often incompatible, which can lead to a system that is ineffective, uncomfortable and, therefore, not worn correctly - if at all. Jo Partridge of 3M explains the thinking behind a new range of products that, she says, are simply made for each other Willcox continues "A 3M Cool flow valve allows warm and moist exhaled air to escape quickly and easily, and the twin filter design offers great weight distribution. All of these features allow the respirator to be worn for longer without discomfort."

The low profile design of the 3M 7500 Series half mask ensures compatibility with headgear such as welding shields, while exhaled air is channelled downwards to reduce fogging of eyewear and face-shields. The specially designed 3M 2790 goggles fit around the nose bridge of the half mask to ensure a comfortable, close and compatible fit.

Many industries such as construction, paint spraying, welding, food and drink manufacturing, bakeries and the emergency services face hazards that require the use of more than one type of PPE. For various reasons, those responsible for supplying PPE to their staff can often fall prey to selecting incompatible products.

This can be due to lack of specialist knowledge, confusion over technical requirements, substitutions by the procurement/purchasing department, or a belief that if products are CE marked, they are appropriate for use with other products. Although different standalone products may be CE marked, when worn in conjunction with others, this does not necessarily mean they will perform as intended.

For example protective eyewear may interfere with the face seal of the respirator and affect protection, or helmet mounted ear defenders may fit onto a hard hat but may not be approved. Incompatible PPE can expose workers to the risk of occupational ill-health or injury – which could in turn lead to litigation.

There are several factors to consider when selecting PPE, such as comfort, protection and, communication as well as compatibility. Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue has recently converted to the 3M 7500 Series half mask combined with 3M 6035 encapsulated filters for P3 protection. Rob Willcox, one of the Fire & Rescue Service's risk management team, explains, "The risk management team conducted a series of trials, selecting 50 volunteers to establish which type of respirator provided the best fit, level of protection and comfort. Following trials of several types of full face, half mask and disposable respirators from a range of manufacturers, the 3M 7500 Series re-usable half mask came out top in all categories. It comes in three sizes, which means that it provides a better fit for different sized and shaped faces. Due to the soft, pliable face piece material, the seal between face and respirator is excellent, and is comfortable next to the skin.

3M offers a wide range of compatible eyewear and hearing protection equipment that can be worn in conjunction with its respirators.

Ear defenders range from disposable foam ear plugs and reuseable plugs to the latest high tech ear muffs including high attenuation and electronic versions. 3M eyewear incorporates standard features such as lightweight, scratch-resistant coating, anti-fog treatment, UV protection and durability. For applications where more than one PPE component is always required, 3M has a range of products that offer 2, 3 or 4-in-1 protection, for example helmetmounted earmuffs that combine head and hearing protection and powered equipment that combines respiratory, eye, face and hearing protection.

The company offers support and guidance on fit testing, wearer trials and product selection for specific hazards, and can advise on products that are compatible with other PPE. It has also developed application-specific, online and printed selector tools that help customers select the appropriate respiratory and hearing products for their task and environment.

To request a free 3M sample pack that includes a selection of compatible products, please see the page opposite.

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