PPE Policy
PPE
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Personal Protective Equipment is the last defence in the process of eliminating, reducing and controlling hazards. Whilst there are significant hazards that PPE can actually protect against such as the example in the photograph, PPE is often a protection from minor, persistent hazards that can have detrimental and long lasting consequences. In the workplace it is our responsibility to use recommended PPE, not only to protect ourselves, but to protect others who may be subject to much greater hazards and risk in providing the logistics to look after us if we are injured in any way. This has never been better exampled than when a hundred people died on a rig as a result of the failures that were incurred when trying to evacuate a cook with a cut finger.
As consultants and client representatives we shall set good example in the PPE that we use and exemplary example in practice.
PPE selection
Boots, coveralls, hard hats, glasses and gloves should be of good quality, comply with prevailing approval standards and be practical for the task and work environment. Coveralls should be flame proof or fire retardant and include high visibility reflective panels or strips.
PPE use
Our responsibility in setting example in sensible use of PPE and following client, contractor and worksite requirements for the use of PPE cannot be over emphasised. We cannot expect others to do what we are not doing ourselves. Also, an omission is tacit approval for others.
PPE care and maintenance
PPE should be kept clean and in good condition, replace rather than keep old.
Coveralls should not be contaminated with oil or other harmful substances.
Hard hats should never be dropped or carelessly handled. Always check approval validity date. Chin straps are required.
Demonstrate your knowledge by good practice.
Richard G. P. Llewellyn
22nd November 2011