PPE will save lives if correctly selected and used

The UK safety culture is strongly embedded into the country’s psyche and despite the best efforts of some sections of the media, the UK continues to be a world leader in protecting workers from harm. However, research has indicated that over 20,000 accidents per year could be prevented by the correct selection, maintenance and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Studies carried out looking into RIDDOR reports that mention PPE alarmingly showed that 43% of accidents happened as a result of PPE not being selected or used, whilst a further 20% were incorrectly specified or poorly maintained.

PPE should not be regarded as the cure to overcoming all workplace hazards, there is the need for all hazardous situations to be examined for ways of eliminating or reducing the risk, prior to its selection. If through the risk assessment process, PPE is deemed to be the most effective option, then correctly selecting the type of equipment, ensuring it is used, maintained and stored correctly is crucial.

A part of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulation 1992, there is the requirement for employees to be involved in the selection process of PPE. The involvement of employees in this process often means that there is greater commitment to its correct use. Too often PPE is given to an employee and it either doesn’t fit properly, hinders them being able to carry out their job or it isn’t comfortable to wear. An employee’s involvement will optimise the selection process and where inconvenience or minor discomfort is necessary; the worker will be more willing to accommodate the situation understanding the options and the reason why.

A ‘one size fits all’ policy for any PPE is a myth; you would not expect safety glasses designed for a substantially built rugby player to have the same fit on a petite lady. Any PPE selection process must take this into consideration and it is probable that more than one style of PPE should be made available to fully protect the whole workforce.

Help in selecting PPE is available from a wide variety of sources, including an established and competent safety equipment distributor, who can offer some assistance in selecting equipment and will, where appropriate, arrange trials of equipment to ensure their suitability. Help in selecting such equipment as Respiratory Protective Devices (RPD) is available through the ‘Clean Air? Take Care!’ campaign from the BSIF or Safety Groups UK.

Your duty as an employer goes beyond just supplying PPE; you have a legal obligation to ensure it is worn at all times. Too often we hear the comment, “We supply equipment, but if they don’t want to wear it, that’s their problem” but part of your duties include ensuring PPE is worn and worn properly. Not only should you supply the equipment, you need to train the wearer in its correct use and enforce the use of it. Non compliance by an employee should be a disciplinary offence.

In summary, 20,000 accidents can be prevented each year by correctly implementing a PPE policy and ensuring the right product is selected and used. It is a legal obligation to ensure this happens as it will protect your employees, your company’s profitability and yourself from prosecution. It’s not difficult and there is lots of help available.