Page 31 - BOSS Today Issue 17

Now this may seem very easy ✱ how to repair and replace it
and straightforward. But, again when necessary.
just taking hearing protection as
an example, there are a number this effectively means that PPe
of things you need to think should be examined before
about. In particular, what type of each use and if it is damaged, or
hearing protection do you need? passed its shelf life, then it must
be replaced.
✱ earmuffs – these cover the also with the training, as
ears, fit tightly and should an employer you will need to
have no gaps around the explain to your employee what
seals. they are also easy to the PPe is protecting them
fit and are easy to monitor against and whether it will totally
because they can be seen. eliminate or just minimise the
But they are a heavier option. risk. the training should have
✱ earplugs – these fit snugly elements of theory as well as
inside the ear canal (not practical guidance on how to fit
across it). they are suitable and wear it correctly.
for use with safety glasses and When PPe has been issued,
other forms of PPe. But there must be somewhere for it
Perfect should note that the regulations obviously, and you also need fitted correctly. they may also ✱ Damage from chemicals,
to be stored when it is not in use.
because they fit so snugly it
the storage must prevent:
is hard to verify if they are
to provide training in its usage.
not be suitable for employees
do not apply to ordinary clothes
Under the regulations, PPe
with a medical condition.
or uniforms unless they are
heat or sunlight.
should be the last resort and
✱ any contamination from dirt
specifically worn to prevent the
✱ semi-inserts/canal caps
other means of controlling the
employee’s own clothing being
or hazardous substances.
– these are held in or across
hazard should be considered
the ear canal by a band. they
✱ any form of abrasion or
contaminated.
Under section 9 of the
Protection health and safety at Work etc first, such as implementing may not be the best solution impact that could cause
safer systems of work.
damage.
if your employees are
so for example, if you are
act 1974, an employer cannot
frequently removing
looking at providing PPe as
But the storage accommodation
charge a worker for providing
their hearing protection,
protection from loud noise and
does not need to be elaborate.
particularly in dusty or dry
him or her with PPe that is
bearing in mind that the PPe is
to be used at work. the act
environments.
It could be a simple carry case
actually says: “No employer
be aware that:
shall levy, or permit to be only a last resort, you need to as an employer you must for safety spectacles, a peg for
weatherproof clothing, or a box
levied, any charge in respect also ensure that any PPe you for hearing protection.
of anything done or provided ✱ PPe only protects the provide your employees with Whatever PPe you provide,
in pursuance of any specific individual wearing it and is maintained in an efficient you must ensure that the
requirement of the relevant does not reduce the noise working order and is in good equipment is properly assessed,
statutory provisions”, but that levels around them. repair. this means you need to to ensure that it is suitable for
clearly relates to PPe. ✱ the maximum levels of provide information, instruction the operative and the task in
In order to provide PPe for protection are seldom and training on: question. you must also ensure
their employees, employers achieved. for example, when that what you buy has Ce
must do more than simply you wear ear defenders ✱ how to check for faults, markings and complies with the
have the equipment on the and you are constantly taking damage, or wear and tear. relevant requirements, so always
premises. employees must them off, the connecting band ✱ how to ensure that the PPe is purchase PPe from a reputable
have the equipment readily stretches and can reduce the operating correctly. provider – not a car boot sale.
available, or at the very least contact that is required. ✱ how to clean and disinfect
have clear instructions on ✱ effective protection is only it appropriately so that you n For Further advice,
where they can obtain it from. achieved if the PPe is correctly avoid additional health please contact your
the PPe needs to be fitted and worn and problems such as ear Boss health, saFety and
appropriate to the job in hand, maintained properly. infections. environmental adviser.
May/June 2013 | BOSS TODAY 31
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