12 - Managing worker personal protective equipment

Abstract

This chapter describes the various types of personal protective clothing and equipment (PPE) that are appropriate for use at hazardous waste sites, and provides guidance in their selection and use. No single combination of protective equipment and clothing is capable of protecting against all hazards. Thus PPE should be used in conjunction with other protective methods. The use of PPE can itself create significant worker hazards, such as heat stress, physical and psychological stress, and impaired vision, mobility, and communication. A written PPE program should be established for work at all hazardous waste sites. Respiratory protection is of primary importance since inhalation is one of the major routes of exposure to chemical toxicants. Respiratory protective devices (respirators) consist of a face piece connected to either an air source or an air-purifying device. Personal protective clothing is considered to be any article offering skin and/or body protection. It includes fully encapsulating suits, nonencapsulating suits, radiation-protective suits, etc. Each type of protective clothing has a specific purpose; many, but not all, are designed to protect against chemical exposure. The Occupational Safety Professional must not only address issues concerning proper management of hazardous materials, but must address management issues concerning worker safety. Selection of PPE must be based on a thorough understanding of the hazards associated with the site and the operations workers are being asked to perform.