All Round Safety Advocates Personal Protective Equipment Compliancy

Section 4.5 of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulation 2017 sets out the duties of PCBUs to provide information, training and instruction.  This relates not only to the hazardous substances being used, but also any personal protective equipment (PPE) that is required to protect workers.

A necessary part of any training relating to PPE is the proper use and maintenance of the equipment. While selecting the correct PPE is critical, so too is the correct maintenance to ensure the PPE continues to function properly.

“Every accident is notice that something is wrong with men, methods or material – investigate – then act.” Unknown.

Chemical protective clothing and gloves are designed to be a barrier between the hazardous substance you’re handling and your skin. Anything that compromises this barrier has the potential to put workers at risk, so it’s vital that you properly maintain this equipment to minimise the chance of cross contamination and prolong the life of the protective equipment.

Before donning the equipment, open packaging carefully – avoid using knives or sharp objects that could damage your protective apparel. Make sure you have the correct type of garment or glove for the job, choose the correct size, and visually inspect the garment or gloves. 

Five warning signs to look for are (This is especially important when re-using chemical protective apparel): Tears, cuts or rips, seam stitching or welds coming apart, abrasion or scuffing of fabric, swelling or discolouration of the barrier material, delamination, especially in areas that may have been taped to other PPE. Take care to prevent damage to your protective equipment, e.g. avoid hot surfaces and sharp edges.

Protective garments should be taken off with your buddy. Clean your gloves, coveralls and boots using water. Wipe off the gloves, respirator and zipper flap if used. Carefully remove your overalls ensuring you don’t contaminate the inside of the coverall. For single used chemical protective coveralls, it’s best to roll your coverall down your body. For reusable chemical protective apparel including coveralls, gloves and boots check that no damage has occurred. If any of the items are damaged they should be disposed of. If your chemical protective apparel looks in good order, then it can by hung up to dry.

For more information on safety gear Auckland, cut resistant gloves NZ, safety helmets and waterproof work boots please go to www.allroundsafety.co.nz .