Enhancing Occupational Safety in Welding: Identifying Hazards and Improving Personal Protective Equipment Utilization Through Hierarchical Task Analysis

As coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases continue to increase in Africa, healthcare workers (HCWs) have a high risk of being infected and the risks may be higher among those who work closely with patients. The risks of HCW infections can be mitigated with adequate precautions within healthcare facilities, especially with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). We highlight and contextualise the findings of a Cochrane review on the type of PPE that protects best, the best way to put PPE on (donning) or to remove PPE (doffing) and how to train HCWs to use PPE. The review found low-certainty of evidence that full body PPE offer more protection, but HCWs may be faced with difficulty during donning and doffing. Following standard guidelines may be helpful in reducing infection and increasing compliance among HCWs. Video training and simulations may be better methods for training on the correct use of PPE than traditional methods of teaching. Countries must, therefore, ensure that HCWs undergo compulsory training on the correct use of PPE; regardless of their professional category. Of the 24 studies included in this review, none was conducted on the African continent. There is thus an urgent need for well conducted studies on the experiences of HCWs using full-body covering PPE within the African context. Such studies could lead to tailored interventions that will improve the proper use of PPE among HCWs.

Combating the COVID-19 battle with personal protective equipment (PPE) armamentarium.

Compliance of healthcare workers to the proper use of personal protective equipment during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic

We've Got You Covered: Return Demonstration from 4000+ Employees

Linked articles: COVID‐19 SPECIAL FORUM. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34: e346–e380.

Objective: To analyze the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) among noise-exposed workers and its influencing factors, providing reference information for noise intervention efforts. Methods: In September 2023, a stratified sampling method was employed. Based on the 2022 gross domestic product (GDP) rankings of cities in Guangdong Province, 21 prefecture-level cities were divided into economically developed and less developed groups. Two cities were randomly selected from each group, and 16 to 17 enterprises were randomly chosen from each city as study sites. Twenty workers were included from each enterprise as study subjects. A total of 1200 questionnaires were distributed and collected, and 1099 were valid, with an effective recovery rate of 91.6%. The correctness of hearing protector usage was evaluated according to the GB/T 23466-2009 "Guidelines for the Selection of Hearing Protectors", and the personal attenuation rating values of the workers' hearing protectors were measured. A self-designed Questionnaire on the Use of Hearing Protectors by Noise-Exposed Workers was used to investigate PPE-related usage. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors influencing the correct use of PPE. Results: A total of 429 (39.0%) noise-exposed workers were able to use PPE correctly during work. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age, working hours, gender, occupational noise protection knowledge score, whether PPE was checked after use, and the frequency of peer supervision on PPE usage were significant factors influencing the effective use of PPE (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The correct use of PPE by noise-exposed workers still needs to be improved. The level of occupational health education in enterprises should be enhanced to promote the correct use of PPE by noise-exposed workers.

Farm labor is one of the main livelihoods in Indonesia. Farmers' activities on agricultural land are never separated from the use of pesticides, although basically pesticides are not only harmful to plant pests but also pose a potential hazard to farm workers as pesticide users. Various types of pesticides circulating and used in Indonesia include the type of organophosphate. Jam because of its affordable price, organophosphates have good effectiveness in controlling plant pests. This ability is comparable to the dangers of organophosphates for health. Various studies have proven that organophosphate pesticides and other pesticides can cause both acute and chronic health problems. Health problems can range from mild to severe symptoms resulting in disability or death. Pesticides intoxication can actually be prevented. One of the prevention efforts that can be done is the use of good and correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Farmers actually know about the potential dangers of pesticides and the importance of using PPE when spraying pesticides. However, most farm workers do not use standard PPE and do not know how to use the correct PPE. They choose to use simple PPE that they make themselves, for example using t-shirts as head coverings and face masks instead of using hats, goggles and masks as face and head protection. These measures are, of course, non-standard and cannot provide perfect protection. The community service that is carried out has the target of farm workers who live in Gayasan Village, Jenggawah District, Jember Regency. This community service activity uses counseling methods and training on the proper and correct use of PPE, accompanied by the implementation of free health checks and medication for farm laborers and the surrounding community. Measurement of the level of knowledge is measured using a questionnaire and then compared between before and after counseling. The results obtained are an increase in the knowledge of farm workers about the dangers of pesticides and the use of good and standard PPE.

Risk assessment for rationalizing the use of personal protective equipment for SARS-CoV2 in healthcare settings with special focus on low- and middle-income settings

Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF) encompass many organisms that have caused sporadic outbreaks with high case fatality rates. This article reviews VHF with reported human-to-human transmission and describes updates about personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare personnel (HCP) and others. We summarize existing information about appropriate PPE use, training, and compliance for care of VHF patients in endemic and nonendemic countries, as well as addresses the challenges HCP experience when using PPE. PPE is essential in protecting HCP from exposure to disease-causing pathogens. Recent evidence shows that anyone involved in care, management, and transport of certain VHF patients must use elements of PPE as part of appropriate infection prevention and control (IPC) practices. Strict adherence to standard precautions has effectively interrupted human-to-human transmission of a number of VHF. However, unclear protocols, inconsistent training, climate challenges, and cultural sensitivities impede proper PPE use. Appropriate PPE use can drastically reduce the risk of HCP exposure to VHF. Infections caused by certain VHFs can be highly pathogenic and associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Though it is well documented that use of PPE and good IPC practices are critical to reducing transmission, little conclusive evidence exists about the ideal PPE ensemble or components. Concerns with comfort, compliance, training, and usability may impede proper PPE use. Basic PPE elements, used appropriately as part of stringent IPC, must always form the foundation of care for HCP-treating patients with VHF. More research is required to identify the ideal PPE ensemble for caring for VHF patients in various settings.

BackgroundThe availability and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent and control infections plays a critical role in the safety of medical students in clinical placements. This study explored their experiences and perspectives in their final clerkship year with PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsThis qualitative study was based on social constructivism and was conducted in 2021 at the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin. In three online focus group discussions, 15 medical students in their final clerkship year reported their experiences with PPE training and use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were recorded, transcribed and analysed based on Kuckartz’s approach to content analysis. We drew upon the a priori dimensions of the capability, opportunity, motivation - behaviour (COM-B) model as main categories as well as emergent issues raised by the study participants (subcategories).ResultsIn addition to the three main categories of the COM-B model, eleven subcategories were identified through inductive analysis. The study participants reported several factors that hindered the correct use of PPE. In the area of capabilities, these factors were related to learning experience with PPE in terms of both theoretical and practical learning together with later supervision in practice. In the area of opportunities, these factors included the limited availability of some PPE components, a lack of time for PPE instruction and supervision and inappropriate role modelling due to the inconsistent use of PPE by physicians and nursing staff. The area of motivation to use PPE was characterized by an ambivalent fear of infection by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the prioritization of patient safety, i.e., the need to prevent the transmission of the virus to patients.ConclusionsOur study revealed several limitations pertaining to the enabling factors associated with the trainable behaviour “correct use of PPE”. The concept of shared responsibility for student safety was used to derive recommendations for future improvement specifically for the medical school as an organization, the teachers and supervisors, and students themselves. This study may guide and stimulate other medical schools and faculties to explore and analyse components of student safety in clinical settings in times of infectious pandemics.

Introducción: las bicicletas son un medio de transporte popular que trae beneficios para la salud, cuando son utilizadas regularmente. Sin embargo, son frecuentes los accidentes que se presentan en sus usuarios. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la prevalencia de accidentes y el uso de equipos de protección individual (EPI) en usuarios de bicicletas en São Paulo (Brasil), por medio de formularios. Además, la población estudiada fue orientada sobre la importancia del uso de EPI. Materiales y métodos: ciclistas de diferentes regiones de São Paulo respondieron a las preguntas hechas en un formulario y fueron orientados sobre el correcto uso de los EPI. Resultados: la muestra total fue de 608 personas, evaluadas y entrevistadas (210 mujeres y 398 hombres). El porcentaje mayor de entrevistados tenía entre 20 y 40 años. Los EPI más usados fueron casco, tenis y señalización de pedales. El 48% de los encuestados dijo que había sufrido accidentes usando este medio de transporte. Gran parte de los accidentes ocurrieron en momentos de ocio, durante las mañanas y en días de sol. El 69.5 % de las personas entrevistadas escucharon las indicaciones. Conclusiones: la mayoría de los ciclistas de la ciudad de São Paulo son jóvenes, varones y no utilizan los EPI obligatorios. Los accidentes sufridos, relatados por la población encuestada, no estuvieron relacionados con las condiciones meteorológicas ni con el consumo de alcohol. En este estudio, se observó que solo los ciclistas que ya usaban los EPI estaban interesados en las directrices sobre su importancia y uso correcto.

Introduction : Bikes are a popular means of transportation that brings health benefits when used regularly. However, accidents occurring in the users of this means of transport are frequent. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of accidents and the use of Personal protective equipment (PPE) in bicycle users in Sao Paulo (Brazil) through the forms. In addition, the population studied was oriented to the importance of the use of PPE. Materials and methods: Cyclists from different regions of Sao Paulo responded to the form on the PPE and in the end were oriented on the correct use of the PPE. Results : The total sample was 608 people, evaluated and interviewed (210 women and 398 men). The highest percentage of respondents was 20-40 years. The most used PPE were helmet, tennis and pedal signaling. 48 % of respondents said they had already suffered an accident with this means of transport. Most of the accidents occurred in leisure times, during the mornings of sunny days. 69.5 % of respondents heard the guidelines on the correct use of PPE. Conclusions : Most cyclists in the city of Sao Paulo are young, male and do not use the PPE. The accidents suffered, using as a means of transport the bicycle, reported by the reporting population, were not related to the weather conditions, nor with the consumption of alcohol. In this study it was observed that only cyclists who were already using PPE were interested in the guidelines on their importance and correct use.

During coronavirus disease of 2019 pandemic a standard usage of personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare was mandatory, while actually the usage of PPE is currently decreasing. This raises the question about the further use of PPE in the clinical setting because healthcare workers (HCW) are at greater risk of being infected with SARS-CoV-2 than the general population. The primary objective of this study is to determine the proportion of shock room team members approving the further use of PPE including a FFP2 respirator in simulation training and reality. The secondary objectives are to describe the expertise and difficulties faced while using PPE in the shock room care. Fifty-four HCW participated in a shock room simulation training at a large urban tertiary care hospital in Germany, utilizing a PPE comprising an FFP2 mask, gloves, goggles, and gown. Subsequently, participants completed an online questionnaire featuring 15 questions presented on a 5-point Likert scale or as multiple-choice questions with predefined answers. Sixty-eight point five percent of our participants voted for an established standard PPE in shock room care. The largest fraction of our participants (40.7%) favors a standard PPE consisting of FFP2 mask, gown, and gloves. Less HCW (31.5%) want to wear PPE in shock room simulation training. Except for goggles we could not detect relevant difficulties faced while using PPE in the shock room environment. Incorrect use of PPE was observed in 14.8%. A majority of our participants favored a standard PPE including a FFP2 respirator in shock room care. In addition, we recommend the use of PPE in shock room simulation training, while further awareness of and training in proper use of PPE seems to be necessary to reduce risk of infectious diseases for HCW.

One form in avoiding the occurrence of occupational diseases and workplace accidents is to understand the use of PPE and wear personal protective equipment. Use of the intended personal protective equipment in which the scavenger conditions in the Tamangapa TPA while working with masks, boots, gloves and protective helmets. With the aim of preventing contamination of the disease and protecting the part or whole body there is a potential danger. This study aims to determine the relationship of knowledge and social economy to the use of personal protective equipment in garbage scavengers in TPA Tamangapa Makassar City. This research was conducted in TPA Tamangapa Kota Makassar. The research was conducted in January until February 2018. The research design used was analytic observational method is a research design that aims to see the relationship of two variables or without any treatment or intervention with cross sectional approach with the number of samples was 99 respondents according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data collection using questionnaire and data analysis using statistic with chi square test. The result of bivariate analysis showed that there was a correlation of knowledge with the use of self-protective device p = 0.024, and there was an economic status relationship with the use of Personal Protective Equipment (p = 0,029). Conclusion there is a relationship between knowledge, and economic status of garbage scavengers in TPA Tamangapa Makassar City. It is advisable to garbage collectors to further improve their understanding and discipline of using Personal Protective Equipment when working.&#x0D; &#x0D; One form in avoiding the occurrence of occupational diseases and workplace accidents is to understand the use of PPE and wear personal protective equipment. Use of the intended personal protective equipment in which the scavenger conditions in the Tamangapa TPA while working with masks, boots, gloves and protective helmets. With the aim of preventing contamination of the disease and protecting the part or whole body there is a potential danger. This study aims to determine the relationship of knowledge and social economy to the use of personal protective equipment in garbage scavengers in TPA Tamangapa Makassar City. This research was conducted in TPA Tamangapa Kota Makassar. The research was conducted in January until February 2018. The research design used was analytic observational method is a research design that aims to see the relationship of two variables or without any treatment or intervention with cross sectional approach with the number of samples was 99 respondents according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data collection using questionnaire and data analysis using statistic with chi square test. The result of bivariate analysis showed that there was a correlation of knowledge with the use of self-protective device p = 0.024, and there was an economic status relationship with the use of Personal Protective Equipment (p = 0,029). Conclusion there is a relationship between knowledge, and economic status of garbage scavengers in TPA Tamangapa Makassar City. It is advisable to garbage collectors to further improve their understanding and discipline of using Personal Protective Equipment when working.&#x0D;

BackgroundCorrect personal protective equipment (PPE) use is key to prevent infection. Observations on a single unit at the Veterans Affairs (VA) Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) prior to COVID-19 (October 2019-February 2020) showed low rates of correct PPE use among healthcare workers (HCWs) (Figure 1). In response to the COVID-19 epidemic, the VA implemented new PPE protocols. Based on our initial observations, we were concerned that incorrect use of PPE may increase the risk of COVID-19 exposure among HCWs. Resident physicians, who work at many sites, may be at high-risk for incorrect PPE use due to rapid turnover and limited site-specific PPE training. We aimed to assess and improve COVID-19 PPE use among internal medicine residents rotating at the VA TVHS.Figure 1: Pre-COVID-19 Observations of Adherence to Contact Precaution Protocols at the Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare SystemMethodsWe used the plan, do, study, act (PDSA) model. Prior to starting VA rotations, residents were emailed PPE education to review. We implemented a 1-hour video conference PPE protocol review at rotation start followed by in-person PPE use evaluations for residents performed by infectious diseases fellows on day 2 and day 5-6 post-review to provide just-in-time educational intervention. Errors at each PPE don/doff step were tracked. Correct PPE use data from both observations were compared using McNemar’s test. Baseline and post-implementation resident surveys assessed PPE use knowledge and comfort.ResultsPre-implementation survey response rate was 72% (21/29); 19/21(91%) reported knowing which PPE to use and 16/21(76%) reported knowing how to safely don/doff PPE. Twenty of 29 (69%) residents completed both observations. Errors decreased by 55% (p=0.0045) from 17/20 (85%) to 6/20 (30%) between initial and follow up observations. Errors in hand hygiene, inclusion of all donning/doffing steps, and PPE reuse decreased, but PPE don/doff order errors increased (Figure 2). Post-project survey response rate was 16/29 (55%). All 16 reported knowing which PPE to use and how to safely don/doff PPE, and 11/16 (69%) residents felt both online and in-person interventions were helpful.Figure 2: COVID-19 PPE Errors and Correction Types by ObservationConclusionCorrect COVID-19 PPE use is essential to protect HCWs and patients. Just-in-time education intervention for PPE training may yield higher correct use compared to pre-recorded or online training.DisclosuresAll Authors: No reported disclosures