Using Risk Based Decision Making to Select Personal Protective Equipment for Oil Spill Responders

Abstract

ABSTRACT Typically, personal protective equipment (PPE) is the primary control measure employed during emergency response operations. PPE and administrative controls rise to the forefront of oil spill response activities due to inherent delays and feasibility issues involved in the implementation of effective engineering controls. Response organizations, possibly due to a failure to assess the hazards appropriately, overprescribe PPE in an attempt to ensure both compliance and protection; however, this approach may actually increase the risk of injury or illness. Choosing and implementing PPE as a response control measure is never a “one-size-fits- all” solution. The proper selection of PPE requires a risk assessment that takes into account the responders, working conditions, tasks and their associated hazards. Moreover, as the work and conditions change, a reassessment is necessary. This paper outlines a summary of the methodology for conducting an evaluation of the conditions and choosing the appropriate PPE by assessing the hazards associated with the work environment. The process consists of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) combined with a Risk Assessment (RA) in order to develop a complete Job Safety Analysis (JSA). Oftentimes, the JHA is done without the RA leading to the inappropriate selection of PPE as the JHA alone does not consider the potential hazards created by the use of PPE. Additionally, as the work, environment, or responder conditions change, or if there is an indication that the control measures are not working as intended (e.g., several responders have heat-related injuries), the JSA process is repeated to ensure that control measures are still current and effective. This methodology will create an effective PPE program by 1) ensuring that the selected PPE is the best suited for that particular job; 2) attempting to reduce responder discomfort; 3) potentially reducing waste and disposal of PPE; and 4) maximizing responder efficiency and effectiveness by avoiding unnecessary stress. All of this information and support appendices have been published by the American Petroleum Institute (API) in a document titled: Recommended Practice 98, Personal Protective Equipment Selection for Oil Spill Responders (2013) available through API at: http://www.techstreet.com/api/products/1862449.