Internal Editorial

INTERNAL EDITORIAL

THE IMPORTANCE OF PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT IN THE WORKPLACE

Hazards could exist in the workplace such as in sharp edges, falling objects, flying sparks, chemicals and noise. It is therefore essential to have strategies to protect workers from these potential risks. Part of such strategies includes the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which is used as a barrier between a person and a hazard.

The South African Occupational Health and Safety Act requires that employers protect their employees from workplace hazards that could cause injury. This is also an important requirement of the Responsible Care Health and Safety Management Practice Standard.

“Employers are required to provide PPE free of charge to employees and must ensure that a PPE programme is effectively implemented within their company,” says Louise Lindeque Responsible Care Manager.

Chemical industry managers are encouraged to always make sure that:

·  Appropriate PPE has been identified for all workers exposed to risks on the job

·  Appropriate PPE has been provided to all such workers

·  Appropriate PPE is worn by workers at all times

·  Employees have been provided with PPE training that covers the use and care of their PPE

·  PPE is regularly checked so that worn, torn or expired items are replaced

·  The effectiveness of the PPE programme is regularly reviewed

·  Employees are educated on the benefits of wearing their PPE

The training and instruction supplied by managers on the use and maintenance of PPE to their employees should cover:

·  The workplace risks that exist

·  Why the PPE is needed

·  How the PPE operates or works

·  A demonstration of how PPE should be worn, adjusted and removed

·  The limitations of the equipment

·  How the PPE should be stored

Managers must make employees aware of the fact that they are responsible for the maintenance and care of all PPE assigned to them and that they. have a responsibility to use the equipment properly and responsibly so that it adequately protects them.

To ensure that employees support their company’s PPE programme and that they use their PPE appropriately, managers are encouraged to also:

·  Involve employees in PPE selection

·  Conduct trials to evaluate fit and comfort

·  Set the example by wearing PPE themselves

·  Never allow exceptions

ENDS

November 2011

Prepared by: Siyenza Management

011 463 9184

On behalf of: Responsible Care

Contact: Louise Lindeque

Note to the editor

Responsible Care is a global initiative by the chemical industry. It encourages its members to improve their safety, health and environmental performance and to raise the industry standards. All Chemical and Allied Industries’ Association members voluntarily sign a pledge, committing themselves to the guiding principles of RC. RC and CAIA play their part towards saving the earth for future generations! For more information visit www.caia.co.za/rescare.