p p & e personal protective equipment

P P & EP P & EPersonal Protective EquipmentPersonal Protective Equipment

San Juan College/Regional Energy San Juan College/Regional Energy Training CenterTraining Center800 S. Hutton800 S. Hutton

Farmington, NM 87401Farmington, NM 87401


PPE in the pastPPE in the past Personal Protective Equipment in the PastPersonal Protective Equipment in the Past People have used personal protective equipment People have used personal protective equipment

(PPE) for centuries to protect themselves while they (PPE) for centuries to protect themselves while they

work. For example: work. For example: * Medieval knights had armor * Medieval knights had armor * Blacksmiths have always used a leather apron * Blacksmiths have always used a leather apron * Cowboys wear leather chaps * Cowboys wear leather chaps * Eskimos wear a heavy parka, gloves, and boots * Eskimos wear a heavy parka, gloves, and boots * Firemen wear heavy coats and special helmets * Firemen wear heavy coats and special helmets * Personal protective equipment today, as in the * Personal protective equipment today, as in the

past, makes working safer and you more past, makes working safer and you more productive.productive.


The "Personal Protective Equipment" StandardThe "Personal Protective Equipment" Standard

Personal protection equipment is important. So Personal protection equipment is important. So important, that in 1994, OSHA (the Occupational important, that in 1994, OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) established 29 Safety and Health Administration) established 29 CFR 1910.132-138, the CFR 1910.132-138, the "Personal Protection Equipment" standard"Personal Protection Equipment" standard.. Briefly stated, this standard requires that employers Briefly stated, this standard requires that employers must establish and administer an effective PPE must establish and administer an effective PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) program for (Personal Protection Equipment) program for employees and that employees be trained in the employees and that employees be trained in the proper use of PPE.proper use of PPE.


Employer ResponsibilitiesEmployer Responsibilities

AssessmentAssessment Employers are required to conduct an assessment Employers are required to conduct an assessment to determine the various to determine the various physical hazardsphysical hazards that may be present in that may be present in your work area.your work area. Physical hazards include:Physical hazards include: * Sources of motion;* Sources of motion; * Sources of high and low temperatures;* Sources of high and low temperatures; * Sources of light radiation * Sources of light radiation - welding - welding - brazing - brazing - heat treating - heat treating - high intensity lights; - high intensity lights; * Sources of falling objects;* Sources of falling objects; * Sources of sharp objects;* Sources of sharp objects; * Sources of rolling or pinching objects;* Sources of rolling or pinching objects; * Sources of electric hazards; and* Sources of electric hazards; and * Floor conditions.* Floor conditions.



AAssessment:ssessment: As part of the assessment, As part of the assessment, employers must also determine the various employers must also determine the various health hazardshealth hazards that may be present in your work that may be present in your work area.area. Health hazards include:Health hazards include: - Types of chemicals you could be exposed - Types of chemicals you could be exposed

to;to; - Sources of harmful dusts; and- Sources of harmful dusts; and - Sources of nuclear radiation.- Sources of nuclear radiation.



Selection of PPESelection of PPE Once your area has Once your area has been assessed, your employer must been assessed, your employer must select, with your help, appropriate select, with your help, appropriate personal protection equipment for you personal protection equipment for you to use while performing your job.to use while performing your job.



Providing PPEProviding PPE Once your area has been Once your area has been assessed, your employer must provide, at no assessed, your employer must provide, at no cost to you, appropriate personal protection cost to you, appropriate personal protection equipment that fits, for you to use while equipment that fits, for you to use while performing your job.performing your job. NOTE: If you have your own personal NOTE: If you have your own personal protective equipment, it must be approved by protective equipment, it must be approved by your employer before you can use it on the your employer before you can use it on the job. Check with your supervisor or safety job. Check with your supervisor or safety manager before using your own equipment.manager before using your own equipment.



Training:Training: Your employer must also provide Your employer must also provide you with training. Your training must include:you with training. Your training must include:

* When PPE is necessary;* When PPE is necessary; * What PPE is necessary;* What PPE is necessary; * How to properly use your PPE;* How to properly use your PPE; * How to care for your PPE; and* How to care for your PPE; and * How to store your PPE.* How to store your PPE.



Maintenance of PPEMaintenance of PPE

In addition to providing you with PPE, In addition to providing you with PPE, your employer must maintain the PPE your employer must maintain the PPE used by employees. If a piece of PPE used by employees. If a piece of PPE cannot be repaired, it must be cannot be repaired, it must be discarded and replaced.discarded and replaced.



Recordkeeping: Recordkeeping: Finally, your employer Finally, your employer must maintain records of the workplace must maintain records of the workplace assessment and of your training.assessment and of your training.


Employee ResponsibilitiesEmployee Responsibilities

Attend Training SessionsAttend Training Sessions You are You are responsible for attending all PPE responsible for attending all PPE training sessions. Remember, the best training sessions. Remember, the best PPE in the world is useless unless you PPE in the world is useless unless you know how to use and care for it!know how to use and care for it!



Assess Potential HazardsAssess Potential Hazards Before you Before you start any job, assess the real and start any job, assess the real and potential hazards associated with that potential hazards associated with that job.job.



Follow ALL Warnings and PrecautionsFollow ALL Warnings and Precautions

Take time to read any and all warnings Take time to read any and all warnings and precautions that may appear on and precautions that may appear on tools, equipment, chemicals, MSDSs, tools, equipment, chemicals, MSDSs, and personal protective equipment.and personal protective equipment.



Listen and Follow DirectionsListen and Follow Directions Listen and Listen and follow the directions that you may be follow the directions that you may be given by your supervisor or safety given by your supervisor or safety manager. They want you to return manager. They want you to return home today, and everyday, safe and home today, and everyday, safe and sound to your family and friends.sound to your family and friends.



ReportReport any and ALL unsafe conditions any and ALL unsafe conditions you may find in your work area to your you may find in your work area to your supervisor or safety manager.supervisor or safety manager.

REMEMBER: Safety is a team effort!REMEMBER: Safety is a team effort!


Why Eye and Face Protection is Why Eye and Face Protection is ImportantImportant

Thousands of people are blinded each Thousands of people are blinded each year from work related eye injuries. year from work related eye injuries. Injuries that could have been Injuries that could have been prevented, if only people would have prevented, if only people would have used eye or face protection.used eye or face protection.


The Delicate Structure of the EyeThe Delicate Structure of the EyeYour eyes are very delicate. You can think of them Your eyes are very delicate. You can think of them as the color television cameras for your brain. Like a as the color television cameras for your brain. Like a camera, your eyes include:camera, your eyes include: - A - A lenslens that focuses light; that focuses light; - An - An irisiris that controls the amount of light that enters the that controls the amount of light that enters the eye; eye; - - ReceptorsReceptors that "pick up" the image of what you see, that "pick up" the image of what you see, and; and; - An - An optic nerveoptic nerve that serves as a "cable" to transmit that serves as a "cable" to transmit information from the receptors in your eye to your brain.information from the receptors in your eye to your brain. Unlike a television camera that is made of plastic Unlike a television camera that is made of plastic and metal, your eye is made of soft tissues and and metal, your eye is made of soft tissues and blood vessels. Damage your eyes, and you have big blood vessels. Damage your eyes, and you have big trouble. Trouble that is often permanent.trouble. Trouble that is often permanent.


What Types of Accidents Cause Eye Injuries?What Types of Accidents Cause Eye Injuries?

The major types of accidents that cause blindness The major types of accidents that cause blindness include:include: - Objects striking the eye; - Objects striking the eye; - Contact with chemicals and other hazardous - Contact with chemicals and other hazardous

materials;materials; - Being struck by swinging objects such as - Being struck by swinging objects such as

chains and ropes; and chains and ropes; and - Viewing radiant energy sources such as welding - Viewing radiant energy sources such as welding

operations or lasers.operations or lasers.


Potential HazardsPotential Hazards

Dusts, Powders, Fumes, and MistsDusts, Powders, Fumes, and Mists

Small particles of matter can enter your Small particles of matter can enter your eyes and damage them. Operations eyes and damage them. Operations such as grinding, chiseling, sanding, such as grinding, chiseling, sanding, hammering, and spraying can create hammering, and spraying can create small airborne particles; particles that small airborne particles; particles that can injure your eyes.can injure your eyes.



Toxic Gases, Vapors, and LiquidsToxic Gases, Vapors, and Liquids Toxic chemicals in Toxic chemicals in the form of gases, vapors, and liquids can damage the form of gases, vapors, and liquids can damage your eyes. Always read the appropriate MSDS before your eyes. Always read the appropriate MSDS before working with any hazardous material.working with any hazardous material. NOTE: Some manufacturing processes produce NOTE: Some manufacturing processes produce hazardous gases, vapors and liquids. Always check hazardous gases, vapors and liquids. Always check with your supervisor or safety manager to learn the with your supervisor or safety manager to learn the type of eye or face protection you will need to use in type of eye or face protection you will need to use in order to work safely.order to work safely.



Flying Objects or ParticlesFlying Objects or Particles Operations Operations such as grinding, chiseling, sanding, such as grinding, chiseling, sanding, and hammering often create flying and hammering often create flying objects or particles that can damage objects or particles that can damage your eyes.your eyes.



Large ObjectsLarge Objects Large objects such as: Large objects such as: 1. swinging chains, cables and ropes;1. swinging chains, cables and ropes; 2. tools that are thrown or fall;2. tools that are thrown or fall; 3. any sharp objects such as knives, 3. any sharp objects such as knives,

scissors, pencils, etc.; and scissors, pencils, etc.; and 4. walking or falling into obstructions 4. walking or falling into obstructions

can damage your eyes or face.can damage your eyes or face.



Molten MetalsMolten Metals Operations which Operations which involve or produce molten metals, if involve or produce molten metals, if splashed, splattered, or dripped into splashed, splattered, or dripped into the eyes, cause severe burns and the eyes, cause severe burns and tissue damage.tissue damage.



Electrical HazardsElectrical Hazards Any time you work Any time you work around electricity, there is the potential around electricity, there is the potential for arcs and sparks to occur. Take time for arcs and sparks to occur. Take time to talk with your supervisor or safety to talk with your supervisor or safety manager concerning the type of eye manager concerning the type of eye protection you should wear if you will protection you should wear if you will be working around electrical hazards.be working around electrical hazards.



Thermal and Radiation HazardsThermal and Radiation Hazards

Operations such as welding, metal cutting, Operations such as welding, metal cutting, and working around furnaces can expose and working around furnaces can expose your eyes to heat, glare, ultraviolet, and your eyes to heat, glare, ultraviolet, and infrared radiation. Check with your infrared radiation. Check with your supervisor or safety manager to learn the supervisor or safety manager to learn the specific type of eye protection you will need specific type of eye protection you will need to use during these types of operations.to use during these types of operations.


Thermal and Radiation HazardsThermal and Radiation Hazards Operations such as welding, metal cutting, Operations such as welding, metal cutting, and working around furnaces can expose and working around furnaces can expose your eyes to heat, glare, ultraviolet, and your eyes to heat, glare, ultraviolet, and infrared radiation. Check with your infrared radiation. Check with your supervisor or safety manager to learn the supervisor or safety manager to learn the specific type of eye protection you will need specific type of eye protection you will need to use during these types of operations.to use during these types of operations.



Potential HazardsPotential HazardsLasersLasers Laser beams present a new hazard in Laser beams present a new hazard in some workplaces. Because there are some workplaces. Because there are different types of lasers, check with different types of lasers, check with your supervisor or safety manager to your supervisor or safety manager to determine the type of eye protection determine the type of eye protection you need to use while working with you need to use while working with lasers.lasers.


Protective MeasuresProtective Measures

Machine GuardsMachine Guards Many types of machines Many types of machines such as lathes, grinders, and sanders are such as lathes, grinders, and sanders are equipped with guards, shields and screens. equipped with guards, shields and screens. Always make sure that guards, shields, and Always make sure that guards, shields, and screens are in place and in good working screens are in place and in good working order before using these types of machines. order before using these types of machines. And, don't forget to wear eye protection.And, don't forget to wear eye protection.



Work Area BarriersWork Area Barriers Operations such as Operations such as sanding, grinding, welding, and lathe sanding, grinding, welding, and lathe operations produce dust, vapors, and flying operations produce dust, vapors, and flying particles. To protect other workers, work particles. To protect other workers, work area barriers such as movable screens and area barriers such as movable screens and barriers should be set up to separate barriers should be set up to separate workers and bystanders from hazardous workers and bystanders from hazardous operations.operations.



VentilationVentilation Operations which use or produce Operations which use or produce vapors, gases, mists, dusts, powders, and vapors, gases, mists, dusts, powders, and other airborne particles should be ventilated. other airborne particles should be ventilated. Ventilation, along with damping systems, can Ventilation, along with damping systems, can significantly reduce the amount of airborne significantly reduce the amount of airborne particles that could be hazardous to your particles that could be hazardous to your eyes.eyes.



LightingLighting Good lighting is important in Good lighting is important in work areas. Good lighting reduces eye work areas. Good lighting reduces eye strain and glare. It also promotes both strain and glare. It also promotes both safety and improved productivity.safety and improved productivity.



Signs and WarningsSigns and Warnings Obstructions and Obstructions and protruding objects should be identified protruding objects should be identified and marked. Use caution when working and marked. Use caution when working around obstructions and protruding around obstructions and protruding objects.objects.


Protective MeasuresProtective Measures Eyewash StationsEyewash Stations Eyewash stations should be located Eyewash stations should be located

within 100 feet of your work area. If you accidentally within 100 feet of your work area. If you accidentally get something in your eyes, go directly to the eyewash get something in your eyes, go directly to the eyewash station and flush your eyes with water for 15 minutes. station and flush your eyes with water for 15 minutes. Be sure to hold your eyes open with your fingers and Be sure to hold your eyes open with your fingers and "look" directly into the water streams. DO NOT RUB "look" directly into the water streams. DO NOT RUB YOUR EYES! Rubbing your eyes may scratch or YOUR EYES! Rubbing your eyes may scratch or embed particles into your eyes. Once you have embed particles into your eyes. Once you have flushed your eyes with water, seek medical attention flushed your eyes with water, seek medical attention immediately.immediately. CAUTION: Some chemicals are water reactive and CAUTION: Some chemicals are water reactive and become toxic when mixed with water. Talk with your become toxic when mixed with water. Talk with your supervisor or safety manager about the chemicals you supervisor or safety manager about the chemicals you will be using on your job. Be familiar with the MSDSs will be using on your job. Be familiar with the MSDSs for all chemicals used in your job.for all chemicals used in your job.



Safe Work PracticesSafe Work Practices As you work:As you work: - Read and follow all warnings and precautions that - Read and follow all warnings and precautions that may be found on equipment and hazardous may be found on equipment and hazardous materials; materials; - Do not throw tools or participate in horseplay; - Do not throw tools or participate in horseplay; - Keep sharp or pointed objects away from - Keep sharp or pointed objects away from

your eyes; and your eyes; and - Follow your supervisor's or safety manager's - Follow your supervisor's or safety manager's

suggestions and recommendations for suggestions and recommendations for working safely.working safely.


Personal Protective EquipmentPersonal Protective Equipment

Safety Glasses:Safety Glasses:Safety glasses are perhaps the most widely used type Safety glasses are perhaps the most widely used type of eye protection. While they may look similar to of eye protection. While they may look similar to regular glasses, they are much stronger and more regular glasses, they are much stronger and more resistant to impact and heat than regular glasses. In resistant to impact and heat than regular glasses. In addition, most safety glasses are equipped with side addition, most safety glasses are equipped with side shields that give you protection from hazards that shields that give you protection from hazards that may not be directly in front of you. Both prescription may not be directly in front of you. Both prescription and nonprescription safety glasses are available. In and nonprescription safety glasses are available. In addition, a wide variety of lens coatings are available addition, a wide variety of lens coatings are available for special work situations. Safety glasses should be for special work situations. Safety glasses should be Z-87 approved to meet OSHA regulations.Z-87 approved to meet OSHA regulations.



GogglesGoggles Goggles give you more protection Goggles give you more protection than safety glasses because they fit closer to than safety glasses because they fit closer to your face. Because goggles surround the eye your face. Because goggles surround the eye area, they give you more protection in area, they give you more protection in situations where you might encounter situations where you might encounter splashing liquids, fumes, vapors, powders, splashing liquids, fumes, vapors, powders, dusts, and mists. Different types of goggles dusts, and mists. Different types of goggles are available. They must indicate that they are available. They must indicate that they are chemical splash goggles to be worn for are chemical splash goggles to be worn for that purpose.that purpose.



Face Shields Face Shields Face shields offer you full face protection and are often Face shields offer you full face protection and are often used around operations which expose you to molten used around operations which expose you to molten metal, chemical splashes, or flying particles. Many face metal, chemical splashes, or flying particles. Many face shields can be used while wearing a hard hat. shields can be used while wearing a hard hat.

NOTE: You should always wear safety glasses or NOTE: You should always wear safety glasses or goggles when using a face shield for added protection. goggles when using a face shield for added protection. Face shields alone are NOT considered adequate eye Face shields alone are NOT considered adequate eye protection.protection.



Welding HelmetsWelding Helmets

Welding helmets provide both face and eye Welding helmets provide both face and eye protection. Welding helmets use special protection. Welding helmets use special absorptive lenses that filter the intense light absorptive lenses that filter the intense light and radiant energy that is produced during and radiant energy that is produced during welding operations. As with face shields, welding operations. As with face shields, safety glasses or goggles should be worn safety glasses or goggles should be worn when using a welding helmet.when using a welding helmet.



Absorptive LensesAbsorptive Lenses Though you may Though you may not be a welder, a wide variety of not be a welder, a wide variety of absorptive lenses are available for use absorptive lenses are available for use in safety glasses and goggles. These in safety glasses and goggles. These absorptive lenses offer additional absorptive lenses offer additional protection if you must work where protection if you must work where there is bright light or glare.there is bright light or glare.


Contact LensesContact Lenses

If you wear contacts, keep the following safety tips in mind.If you wear contacts, keep the following safety tips in mind. - You - You may not wear your contacts while using a full face respirator. may not wear your contacts while using a full face respirator.

- Wear your contacts with caution if you work in areas where you - Wear your contacts with caution if you work in areas where you might be exposed to fumes, dusts, powders, vapors, chemical might be exposed to fumes, dusts, powders, vapors, chemical splashes, molten metals, or intense heat, light or glare. splashes, molten metals, or intense heat, light or glare.

- If you get anything under your contacts, take time to remove and - If you get anything under your contacts, take time to remove and clean them. Follow your eye doctor's instructions for cleaning clean them. Follow your eye doctor's instructions for cleaning and caring for your contacts. and caring for your contacts.

- Some chemicals can react with contacts and cause permanent - Some chemicals can react with contacts and cause permanent injury. injury.

- It is wise to keep an extra pair of contacts or a pair of glasses - It is wise to keep an extra pair of contacts or a pair of glasses handy in case you should lose or damage one of your contacts handy in case you should lose or damage one of your contacts while you are working.while you are working.


Care of Eye Protection EquipmentCare of Eye Protection Equipment

- Clean your eye protection equipment. You can usually use mild soap - Clean your eye protection equipment. You can usually use mild soap and water. You may also use special wipes that are designed for and water. You may also use special wipes that are designed for cleaning protective eye equipment. Never use abrasive soaps, cleaning protective eye equipment. Never use abrasive soaps, rough paper, or cloth towels. These items will scratch and rough paper, or cloth towels. These items will scratch and damage your equipment.damage your equipment.

- Always keep your eye protection equipment in good working - Always keep your eye protection equipment in good working condition. If it is damaged, have it repaired or replaced.condition. If it is damaged, have it repaired or replaced.

- Store your eye protection equipment in a sanitary, cool, dry area - Store your eye protection equipment in a sanitary, cool, dry area away from moisture. away from moisture.

- Read the manufacturer's directions and warnings before using any - Read the manufacturer's directions and warnings before using any eye protection equipment. eye protection equipment.

- If you have any questions concerning your eye protection - If you have any questions concerning your eye protection equipment, talk with your supervisor or safety manager.equipment, talk with your supervisor or safety manager.


Vision ExamsVision Exams

LLet's face it. You only have two eyes, et's face it. You only have two eyes, and they must last you a lifetime.and they must last you a lifetime. As As you age, your eyes will change. These you age, your eyes will change. These changes can affect your safety at work changes can affect your safety at work and at home. So, it's a good idea to and at home. So, it's a good idea to take a little time each year for a vision take a little time each year for a vision exam.exam.


Why Respiratory Protection is ImportantWhy Respiratory Protection is Important

Health hazardsHealth hazards in the workplace are a major concern for in the workplace are a major concern for both employers and employees. It is important, though, both employers and employees. It is important, though, to remember that hazardous materials only present a to remember that hazardous materials only present a health hazard when they come into contact with your health hazard when they come into contact with your body. Hazardous materials can enter your body in three body. Hazardous materials can enter your body in three ways:ways: 1. Ingestion 1. Ingestion 2. Skin Absorption 2. Skin Absorption 3. Inhalation 3. Inhalation Because many substances which are health hazards Because many substances which are health hazards can become airborne, knowing how to protect can become airborne, knowing how to protect yourself is very important.yourself is very important.


InhalationInhalation

Of the three ways that hazardous Of the three ways that hazardous materials can enter your body, materials can enter your body, inhalation is the most common route of inhalation is the most common route of exposure for most materials which are exposure for most materials which are health hazards. This includes breathing health hazards. This includes breathing in dust, fumes, oil mist, and vapors in dust, fumes, oil mist, and vapors from solvents and various gases.from solvents and various gases.


The Breathing ProcessThe Breathing Process

To better understand how health hazards can enter your body To better understand how health hazards can enter your body by inhalation, let's take a closer look at the breathing process. by inhalation, let's take a closer look at the breathing process. - Whenever you take a breath, oxygen rich air is taken into - Whenever you take a breath, oxygen rich air is taken into your body through your mouth and nose, goes down your your body through your mouth and nose, goes down your windpipe and into your lungs.windpipe and into your lungs.

- In your lungs, there are tiny air sacs called alveoli.- In your lungs, there are tiny air sacs called alveoli.

- These delicate air sacs then transfer the oxygen that is in - These delicate air sacs then transfer the oxygen that is in the air into your blood. At the same time the oxygen is being the air into your blood. At the same time the oxygen is being absorbed into your bloodstream, carbon dioxide is being absorbed into your bloodstream, carbon dioxide is being transferred from your bloodstream into the air sacs.transferred from your bloodstream into the air sacs.

- When you breathe out, you are ridding your body of - When you breathe out, you are ridding your body of gaseous wastes. gaseous wastes.


Lung DamageLung Damage

Inhaling hazardous materials damages the Inhaling hazardous materials damages the delicate structure of your lungs. Lungs that delicate structure of your lungs. Lungs that have been damaged are more susceptible to have been damaged are more susceptible to respiratory diseases. These diseases often respiratory diseases. These diseases often cannot be cured, and eventually lead to cannot be cured, and eventually lead to death. In short, respiratory protection is death. In short, respiratory protection is serious business.serious business.



DustsDusts

Dusts are formed whenever solid Dusts are formed whenever solid material is broken down into tiny material is broken down into tiny particles. Dusts are often produced particles. Dusts are often produced during sanding and grinding during sanding and grinding operations.operations.



VaporsVapors

Vapors are substances that are created Vapors are substances that are created when a solid or liquid material when a solid or liquid material evaporates. Materials that evaporate evaporates. Materials that evaporate easily at room temperature include easily at room temperature include paint thinner, solvents, and gasoline.paint thinner, solvents, and gasoline.



FogsFogs are vapors which have condensed are vapors which have condensed into tiny airborne particles or droplets. into tiny airborne particles or droplets. An example of a hazardous fog would An example of a hazardous fog would be an insect fogger used to rid be an insect fogger used to rid industrial and residential areas of ticks industrial and residential areas of ticks and fleas.and fleas.



Mists & SpraysMists & Sprays Mists and sprays are Mists and sprays are very small droplets of liquid material very small droplets of liquid material suspended in the air. They are often suspended in the air. They are often produced by spray and coating produced by spray and coating operations.operations.



GasesGases are materials that become airborne at are materials that become airborne at room temperature. Gases may have an odor, room temperature. Gases may have an odor, but many do not. Some gases can be seen, but many do not. Some gases can be seen, but again, others cannot. Gases may be but again, others cannot. Gases may be heavier than air, or lighter than air, but in heavier than air, or lighter than air, but in either case, can travel for great distances either case, can travel for great distances undetected.undetected.



FumesFumes Fumes can occur whenever a Fumes can occur whenever a metal, plastic, or polymer is subjected metal, plastic, or polymer is subjected to a high heat during such processes to a high heat during such processes as welding and soldering operations.as welding and soldering operations.



SmokeSmoke

Smoke is made up of small particles Smoke is made up of small particles produced by the incomplete combustion of produced by the incomplete combustion of any material that has carbon in it. Smoke is any material that has carbon in it. Smoke is often produced during processes that require often produced during processes that require high heat or burning as part of the high heat or burning as part of the manufacturing process.manufacturing process.


Types of RespiratorsTypes of Respirators

There are two major categories of respirators:There are two major categories of respirators: 1. Air Purifying Respirators 1. Air Purifying Respirators These types of respirators These types of respirators include: include: - Air Purifying Disposable Particulate Masks; - Air Purifying Disposable Particulate Masks; - Air Purifying Half Mask Respirators; - Air Purifying Half Mask Respirators; - Air Purifying Full Face Mask Respirators; - Air Purifying Full Face Mask Respirators; - Gas Masks; and - Gas Masks; and - Powered Air Purifying Respirators.- Powered Air Purifying Respirators.2. Supplied Air Respirators2. Supplied Air Respirators These types of respirators include: These types of respirators include: - Airline Respirators; - Airline Respirators; - Emergency Escape Breathing Apparatus; and - Emergency Escape Breathing Apparatus; and - Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).


Selecting the Correct RespiratorSelecting the Correct RespiratorThe first step in selecting the correct respirator is to The first step in selecting the correct respirator is to determine the level of hazard that is posed by the determine the level of hazard that is posed by the environment in which you will be working. To do this, environment in which you will be working. To do this, you must be able to answer four basic questions:you must be able to answer four basic questions:1. What type of contaminant is present?1. What type of contaminant is present?

2. What is the form of the contaminant?2. What is the form of the contaminant?

3. How toxic is the contaminant?3. How toxic is the contaminant?

4. What is the concentration of the contaminant?4. What is the concentration of the contaminant?Because you may not be able to answer these Because you may not be able to answer these questions on your own, always work with your questions on your own, always work with your supervisor or safety professional to determine the supervisor or safety professional to determine the correct answers to these questions.correct answers to these questions.


Selecting the Correct RespiratorSelecting the Correct RespiratorIn addition to determining the level of hazard that is In addition to determining the level of hazard that is posed by the environment, you must also consider: posed by the environment, you must also consider: 1. How long will you be exposed to the contaminant?1. How long will you be exposed to the contaminant?2. What is your individual sensitivity to the 2. What is your individual sensitivity to the contaminant?contaminant?3. What are your individual requirements? 3. What are your individual requirements? - Do you wear glasses? - Do you wear glasses? - Do you have a beard or other facial hair? - Do you have a beard or other facial hair? - Do you wear dentures? - Do you wear dentures? - Will you have to wear other protective equipment? - Will you have to wear other protective equipment?Talk with your supervisor or safety professional to Talk with your supervisor or safety professional to determine the correct respirator you will need to work determine the correct respirator you will need to work safely.safely.


Inspection Before UseInspection Before Use Every time you use your respirator, you must first Every time you use your respirator, you must first inspect it. To properly inspect a respirator before inspect it. To properly inspect a respirator before using it, you should look for:using it, you should look for: - Cracks or chips in the faceplate; - Cracks or chips in the faceplate; - Cracks or holes in the breathing tube or airlines; - Cracks or holes in the breathing tube or airlines; - Worn or frayed straps; - Worn or frayed straps; - Worn or damaged fittings; - Worn or damaged fittings; - Bent or corroded buckles; and - Bent or corroded buckles; and - Dirty or improperly seated valves.- Dirty or improperly seated valves.If you find anything wrong with your respirator, do not If you find anything wrong with your respirator, do not use it. Have it repaired or replaced immediately.use it. Have it repaired or replaced immediately.


Donning the RespiratorDonning the Respirator1. With one hand, hold the respirator to your face.1. With one hand, hold the respirator to your face. 2. 2. While holding the respirator in place, slip the head While holding the respirator in place, slip the head harness over your head.harness over your head.3. Adjust and tighten the head harness straps until 3. Adjust and tighten the head harness straps until the respirator fits snugly to your face. The best way the respirator fits snugly to your face. The best way to tighten a respirator is to tighten the straps from to tighten a respirator is to tighten the straps from the bottom up. To be sure that you know how to don the bottom up. To be sure that you know how to don the respirator properly, you should demonstrate the respirator properly, you should demonstrate donning the respirator to your supervisor or safety donning the respirator to your supervisor or safety professional. NOTE: Always check the guidelines professional. NOTE: Always check the guidelines provided by the manufacturer before donning, fitting, provided by the manufacturer before donning, fitting, and using your respirator.and using your respirator.


Study finds glove use significantly reduces hand injury Study finds glove use significantly reduces hand injury risk risk

Each year, more than 1,000,000 U.S. workers receive Each year, more than 1,000,000 U.S. workers receive treatment in emergency departments for acute hand injuries. treatment in emergency departments for acute hand injuries.

In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that approximately 110,000 workers with hand and finger injuries approximately 110,000 workers with hand and finger injuries lose days away from work annually — second only to back lose days away from work annually — second only to back

strain and sprain. strain and sprain. To better understand the risk factors for hand injuries and to To better understand the risk factors for hand injuries and to

help reduce their occurrence, researchers at the Liberty help reduce their occurrence, researchers at the Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety, in collaboration with Mutual Research Institute for Safety, in collaboration with

colleagues at the Harvard School of Public Health, colleagues at the Harvard School of Public Health, conducted a study of occupational acute hand injuries. conducted a study of occupational acute hand injuries.

Researchers examined seven potential changing risk factors Researchers examined seven potential changing risk factors in the occurrence of acute traumatic hand injury at work. in the occurrence of acute traumatic hand injury at work.


The study found that the risk of hand injury was significantly elevated The study found that the risk of hand injury was significantly elevated when:when:• • Equipment, tools, or work pieces did not perform as expected.Equipment, tools, or work pieces did not perform as expected.• Workers used a different work method or performed an • Workers used a different work method or performed an

unusual task.unusual task.• Workers were distracted and rushed.• Workers were distracted and rushed.Further, the results indicate that glove use significantly reduced hand Further, the results indicate that glove use significantly reduced hand injury risk by 60 percent. Occupational category, job experience and injury risk by 60 percent. Occupational category, job experience and safety training were found to alter several of these risks.safety training were found to alter several of these risks.The study, co-sponsored by the National Institute for Occupational The study, co-sponsored by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, revealed the most common occupational acute Safety and Health, revealed the most common occupational acute hand injury was a laceration (63 percent), followed by crush injury hand injury was a laceration (63 percent), followed by crush injury (13 percent), avulsion (8 percent), puncture (6 percent), fracture (5 (13 percent), avulsion (8 percent), puncture (6 percent), fracture (5 percent), contusion (1 percent), and dislocation (0.1 percent).percent), contusion (1 percent), and dislocation (0.1 percent).


Why Hand Protection is ImportantWhy Hand Protection is Important

Take a moment to hold your hands out in front of Take a moment to hold your hands out in front of you. Look at them. They are the only two hands you you. Look at them. They are the only two hands you will ever have. will ever have. It has been estimated that almost 20% of all It has been estimated that almost 20% of all disabling accidents on the job involve the hands. disabling accidents on the job involve the hands. Without your fingers or hands, your ability to work Without your fingers or hands, your ability to work would be greatly reduced.would be greatly reduced. Human hands are unique. No other creature in the Human hands are unique. No other creature in the world has hands that can grasp, hold, move, and world has hands that can grasp, hold, move, and manipulate objects like human hands. They are one manipulate objects like human hands. They are one of your greatest assets. And, as such, must be of your greatest assets. And, as such, must be protected and cared for.protected and cared for.



Traumatic InjuriesTraumatic Injuries You can suffer a traumatic injury to your You can suffer a traumatic injury to your hands in many ways. hands in many ways. - Tools and machines with a sharp edges - Tools and machines with a sharp edges can cut your hands.can cut your hands. - Staples, screwdrivers, nails, chisels, and - Staples, screwdrivers, nails, chisels, and stiff wire can puncture your hands. stiff wire can puncture your hands. - Getting your hands caught in machinery - Getting your hands caught in machinery can sprain, crush, or remove your hands can sprain, crush, or remove your hands and fingers.and fingers.



Contact InjuriesContact Injuries Coming into contact with caustic or toxic Coming into contact with caustic or toxic chemicals, biological substances, electrical chemicals, biological substances, electrical sources, or extremely cold or hot objects can sources, or extremely cold or hot objects can irritate or burn your hands.irritate or burn your hands. WARNING: Toxic substances are poisonous WARNING: Toxic substances are poisonous substances that can be absorbed through substances that can be absorbed through your skin and enter your body.your skin and enter your body.



Repetitive Motion InjuriesRepetitive Motion Injuries Whenever you repeat the same hand Whenever you repeat the same hand movement over a long period of time, you movement over a long period of time, you run the risk of repetitive motion problems. run the risk of repetitive motion problems. Repetitive motion problems often appear as a Repetitive motion problems often appear as a numbness or tingling sensation numbness or tingling sensation accompanied by pain and the loss of accompanied by pain and the loss of gripping power in your hands.gripping power in your hands.


Preventative MeasuresPreventative Measures

Engineering ControlsEngineering Controls Machine guards and Machine guards and safety mechanisms are designed to protect safety mechanisms are designed to protect your hands and fingers.your hands and fingers. WARNING: Never remove machine guards or WARNING: Never remove machine guards or bypass safety mechanisms. Check with your bypass safety mechanisms. Check with your organization's lockout-tagout procedures organization's lockout-tagout procedures before attempting to put your hands into before attempting to put your hands into machinery.machinery.


Preventative MeasuresPreventative Measures

Housekeeping and HygieneHousekeeping and Hygiene Poorly maintained machinery, tools, sloppy Poorly maintained machinery, tools, sloppy work areas, and cluttered aisles all work areas, and cluttered aisles all contribute to hand injuries.contribute to hand injuries. Good hygiene includes handwashing. Good hygiene includes handwashing. Handwashing helps to remove germs and dirt Handwashing helps to remove germs and dirt from your hands. Clean hands are less from your hands. Clean hands are less susceptible to infection and other skin susceptible to infection and other skin problems such as contact dermatitis.problems such as contact dermatitis.


Personal Protective EquipmentPersonal Protective EquipmentGlovesGloves There are many type of gloves that are There are many type of gloves that are designed to protect your hands.designed to protect your hands. Metal mesh gloves resist sharp edges and Metal mesh gloves resist sharp edges and prevent cuts. Leather gloves shield your prevent cuts. Leather gloves shield your hands from rough surfaces. Vinyl and hands from rough surfaces. Vinyl and neoprene gloves protect your hands against neoprene gloves protect your hands against toxic chemicals. Rubber gloves protect you toxic chemicals. Rubber gloves protect you when working around electricity.when working around electricity.


Always talk with your supervisor or safety Always talk with your supervisor or safety manager about the type of glove you should manager about the type of glove you should be using on your job.be using on your job.

Padded cloth gloves protect your hands from Padded cloth gloves protect your hands from sharp edges, slivers, dirt, and vibration. Heat sharp edges, slivers, dirt, and vibration. Heat resistant gloves protect your hands from resistant gloves protect your hands from heat and flames. Latex disposable gloves heat and flames. Latex disposable gloves are used to protect your hands from germs are used to protect your hands from germs and bacteria. Lead-lined gloves are used to and bacteria. Lead-lined gloves are used to protect your hands from radiation sources.protect your hands from radiation sources.


Wearing and Using GlovesWearing and Using Gloves

- Select and use the right kind of glove for the job you are going to be - Select and use the right kind of glove for the job you are going to be performing. performing. - Select gloves that fit. - Select gloves that fit. - Some gloves may be chemical specified and have a life expectancy. - Some gloves may be chemical specified and have a life expectancy. Discard them after the recommended time has expired. Discard them after the recommended time has expired. - Remove any rings, watches, or bracelets that might cut or tear your - Remove any rings, watches, or bracelets that might cut or tear your gloves. gloves. - Wash your hands before and after wearing your gloves. - Wash your hands before and after wearing your gloves. - Inspect your gloves before you use them. Look for holes and cracks - Inspect your gloves before you use them. Look for holes and cracks that might leak. that might leak. - Replace gloves that are worn or torn. - Replace gloves that are worn or torn. - After working with chemicals, hold your gloved hands under - After working with chemicals, hold your gloved hands under running water to rinse away any chemicals or dirt before removing running water to rinse away any chemicals or dirt before removing the gloves. the gloves. - Wash cotton gloves as needed. - Wash cotton gloves as needed. - Avoid borrowing gloves. Gloves are personal protective equipment.- Avoid borrowing gloves. Gloves are personal protective equipment. - Store gloves right side out in a clean, cool, dry, ventilated area. - Store gloves right side out in a clean, cool, dry, ventilated area. - Never wear gloves around powered rotating equipment - drills, - Never wear gloves around powered rotating equipment - drills, lathes, etc.lathes, etc.


Other Protective MeasuresOther Protective Measures

Barrier CreamsBarrier Creams - Water Repellent Creams are used to - Water Repellent Creams are used to protect your hands from caustic chemicals.protect your hands from caustic chemicals. - Solvent-Repellent Creams are used to protect - Solvent-Repellent Creams are used to protect your hands from solvents, oils, and other organic your hands from solvents, oils, and other organic chemicals.chemicals. - Sunscreens protect your skin from the - Sunscreens protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun.damaging effects of the sun. - Vanishing Creams - Vanishing Creams protect your skin against mild acids, and make protect your skin against mild acids, and make cleaning up easier.cleaning up easier. WARNING: Never substitute a WARNING: Never substitute a barrier cream when you should use gloves.barrier cream when you should use gloves.


Other Protective MeasuresOther Protective Measures

- Forearm Cuffs are used to protect your - Forearm Cuffs are used to protect your forearm.forearm. - Thumb Guards and Finger Cots - Thumb Guards and Finger Cots protect only your thumb or fingers.protect only your thumb or fingers. - Mittens protect your hands while working - Mittens protect your hands while working around very cold or hot materials.around very cold or hot materials. - Hand - Hand Pads are often found in kitchens and Pads are often found in kitchens and laboratories. Hand pads protect your hands laboratories. Hand pads protect your hands while working around very hot materials.while working around very hot materials.


Repetitive Motion InjuriesRepetitive Motion Injuries

Some jobs require that you repeat the same hand Some jobs require that you repeat the same hand motion over and over again. These kind of jobs may motion over and over again. These kind of jobs may cause what is known as cause what is known as repetitive motion injuries.repetitive motion injuries. Early Early symptoms include numbness and tingling in the fingers symptoms include numbness and tingling in the fingers and hand.and hand. If you start having these symptoms, take a If you start having these symptoms, take a break. Also, simple hand exercises such as flexing break. Also, simple hand exercises such as flexing the wrist and stretching the fingers will help. the wrist and stretching the fingers will help. If the problem persists, talk with your supervisor or If the problem persists, talk with your supervisor or safety manager.safety manager.


Remember! Remember! Your hands are one of your Your hands are one of your

greatest assets.greatest assets. Protect Protect them!them!


Why Foot Protection is ImportantWhy Foot Protection is Important

Scientists and engineers for centuries have Scientists and engineers for centuries have marveled at the design and structure of the marveled at the design and structure of the human foot. The human foot is rigid enough human foot. The human foot is rigid enough to support the weight of your entire body, to support the weight of your entire body, and yet flexible enough to allow you to run, and yet flexible enough to allow you to run, dance, play sports, and to take you anywhere dance, play sports, and to take you anywhere you want to go. Without your feet and toes, you want to go. Without your feet and toes, your ability to work at your job would be your ability to work at your job would be greatly reduced.greatly reduced.



Impact InjuriesImpact Injuries If you have ever If you have ever stubbed your toe, you know that impact stubbed your toe, you know that impact injuries can hurt. At work, heavy injuries can hurt. At work, heavy objects can fall on your feet. If you objects can fall on your feet. If you work around sharp objects, you can work around sharp objects, you can step on something sharp and puncture step on something sharp and puncture your foot.your foot.



Injuries from Spills and SplashesInjuries from Spills and Splashes

Liquids such as acids, caustics, and Liquids such as acids, caustics, and molten metals can spill into your shoes molten metals can spill into your shoes and boots. These hazardous materials and boots. These hazardous materials can cause chemical and heat burns.can cause chemical and heat burns.



Compression InjuriesCompression Injuries Heavy Heavy machinery, equipment, and other machinery, equipment, and other objects can roll over your feet. The objects can roll over your feet. The result of these types of accidents is result of these types of accidents is often broken or crushed bones.often broken or crushed bones.



Electrical ShocksElectrical Shocks

Accidents involving electricity can Accidents involving electricity can cause severe shocks and burns.cause severe shocks and burns.



Extremes in Cold, Heat, and MoistureExtremes in Cold, Heat, and Moisture

If not protected, your feet can suffer from If not protected, your feet can suffer from frostbite if you must work in an extremely frostbite if you must work in an extremely cold environment. Extreme heat, on the other cold environment. Extreme heat, on the other hand, can blister and burn your feet. Finally, hand, can blister and burn your feet. Finally, extreme moisture in your shoes or boots can extreme moisture in your shoes or boots can lead to fungal infections.lead to fungal infections.



SlippingSlipping

Oil, water, soaps, wax, and other Oil, water, soaps, wax, and other chemicals can cause you to slip and chemicals can cause you to slip and fall.fall.


Why Head Protection is ImportantWhy Head Protection is Important

Your head is a very delicate part of your body. In and Your head is a very delicate part of your body. In and around your head are: around your head are: - Your eyes, with which you see; - Your eyes, with which you see; - Your ears, with which you hear; - Your ears, with which you hear; - Your nose, with which you smell; - Your nose, with which you smell; - Your mouth, with which you eat and speak; and - Your mouth, with which you eat and speak; and - Your brain, with which you think.- Your brain, with which you think. Injuries to the head are very serious. For this reason, Injuries to the head are very serious. For this reason, head protection and safety are very important.head protection and safety are very important.



Impact to the HeadImpact to the Head Falling or flying objects are a common Falling or flying objects are a common cause of head injuries. Also, falling or cause of head injuries. Also, falling or walking into hard objects can cause walking into hard objects can cause head injuries. These injuries include head injuries. These injuries include neck sprains, concussions, and skull neck sprains, concussions, and skull fractures.fractures.



Electrical ShocksElectrical Shocks Accidents involving Accidents involving electricity result in electrical shocks electricity result in electrical shocks and burns.and burns.



Splashes, Spills, and DripsSplashes, Spills, and Drips Toxic Toxic liquids such as acids, caustics, and liquids such as acids, caustics, and molten metals can irritate and burn the molten metals can irritate and burn the eyes and skin.eyes and skin.


How Hard Hats Protect YouHow Hard Hats Protect You

Hard hatsHard hats protect you by providing the following features: protect you by providing the following features: - A rigid shell that resists and deflects blows to the - A rigid shell that resists and deflects blows to the head; head; - A suspension system inside the hat that acts as a - A suspension system inside the hat that acts as a shock absorber;shock absorber; - Some hats serve as an insulator against electrical - Some hats serve as an insulator against electrical shocks;shocks; - Shields your scalp, face, neck, and shoulders - Shields your scalp, face, neck, and shoulders against splashes, spills, and drips; and against splashes, spills, and drips; and - Some hard hats can be modified so you can add - Some hard hats can be modified so you can add face shields, goggles, hoods, or hearing protection face shields, goggles, hoods, or hearing protection to them.to them.


Types of Hard HatsTypes of Hard Hats

Class A Hard HatsClass A Hard Hats Class A hard hats Class A hard hats are designed to: are designed to: - Protect you from falling objects; and - Protect you from falling objects; and - Protect you from electrical shocks up - Protect you from electrical shocks up to 2,200 volts.to 2,200 volts.



Class B Hard HatsClass B Hard Hats Class B hard hats Class B hard hats are designed to: are designed to: - Protect you from falling objects; and - Protect you from falling objects; and - Protect you from electrical shocks up - Protect you from electrical shocks up to 20,000 volts.to 20,000 volts.



Class C Hard HatsClass C Hard Hats Class C hard hats: Class C hard hats: - Protect you from falling objects; - Protect you from falling objects; - DO NOT protect you from electrical - DO NOT protect you from electrical shocks; and shocks; and - DO NOT protect you from corrosive - DO NOT protect you from corrosive substances.substances.


Bump CapsBump Caps

Bump CapsBump Caps Bump caps are made from Bump caps are made from lightweight plastic and are designed to lightweight plastic and are designed to protect you from bumping your head on protect you from bumping your head on protruding objects. Bump caps DO NOT: - protruding objects. Bump caps DO NOT: - Use a suspension system; Use a suspension system; - Protect you from falling objects; or - Protect you from falling objects; or - Protect you from electrical shocks.- Protect you from electrical shocks. WARNING: You should never substitute a WARNING: You should never substitute a bump cap for a hard hat.bump cap for a hard hat.


Wearing Hard HatsWearing Hard Hats

-Always wear your hard hat while you are working in areas -Always wear your hard hat while you are working in areas where there are potential head hazards.where there are potential head hazards. - Adjust the suspension inside your hard hat so that the hat - Adjust the suspension inside your hard hat so that the hat sits comfortably, but securely on your head. sits comfortably, but securely on your head. - Inspect the shell of your hard hat for cracks, gouges, and - Inspect the shell of your hard hat for cracks, gouges, and dents. Inspect the suspension system for frayed or broken dents. Inspect the suspension system for frayed or broken straps. If your hard hat needs to be repaired, have it straps. If your hard hat needs to be repaired, have it repaired immediately or ask your employer for a new one.repaired immediately or ask your employer for a new one. - Never paint, scratch or drill "air holes" in your hard hat. You - Never paint, scratch or drill "air holes" in your hard hat. You may apply reflective plastic tape if you must work at night. may apply reflective plastic tape if you must work at night. Never use metal tape on your helmet because it can conduct Never use metal tape on your helmet because it can conduct electricity. electricity. - Never carry personal belongings such as cigarettes, lighters, - Never carry personal belongings such as cigarettes, lighters, or pens in your hard hat.or pens in your hard hat.


Caring for Your Hard HatCaring for Your Hard HatBecause your hard hat is an important piece of Because your hard hat is an important piece of personal protective equipment, you should:personal protective equipment, you should: - Clean your hard hat at least once a month (or as - Clean your hard hat at least once a month (or as needed) to remove oil, grease, chemicals, and needed) to remove oil, grease, chemicals, and sweat that can collect in and around your hat. sweat that can collect in and around your hat. - You can clean your hat by soaking it in a solution - You can clean your hat by soaking it in a solution of mild soap and hot water for 5-10 minutes. Rinse of mild soap and hot water for 5-10 minutes. Rinse with clear water, wipe, and let air dry. Or, follow the with clear water, wipe, and let air dry. Or, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning your manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning your hat. hat. - Because sunlight and heat can damage the - Because sunlight and heat can damage the suspension of your hat, always store your hat in a suspension of your hat, always store your hat in a clean, dry, and cool location.clean, dry, and cool location.


ExcusesExcuses

There are NO excuses for not There are NO excuses for not

wearing your hard hat!wearing your hard hat!


Occupational NoiseOccupational NoiseNoise is a common problem found in Noise is a common problem found in many workplaces. Research has shown many workplaces. Research has shown that high levels of noise can damage that high levels of noise can damage your hearing. Losing your hearing is a your hearing. Losing your hearing is a gradual process, and is less noticeable gradual process, and is less noticeable than other types of workplace injuries. than other types of workplace injuries. It is, however, a permanent handicap It is, however, a permanent handicap for those who are affected.for those who are affected.


Why Hearing Protection is ImportantWhy Hearing Protection is Important

Hearing protection is important because your ears Hearing protection is important because your ears are composed of very delicate structures. Whenever are composed of very delicate structures. Whenever a sound is produced, air is set into motion as sound a sound is produced, air is set into motion as sound waves. Sound is collected in the outer ear and waves. Sound is collected in the outer ear and funneled to the eardrum.funneled to the eardrum. - When sound waves hit the eardrum, it vibrates and - When sound waves hit the eardrum, it vibrates and sends sound to the middle ear.sends sound to the middle ear. The middle ear The middle ear amplifies the vibrations and sends them to the inner amplifies the vibrations and sends them to the inner ear. The vibrations stimulate hair cells in the ear. The vibrations stimulate hair cells in the inner ear and create an electrical impulse. inner ear and create an electrical impulse. This This impulse travels to the brain along the auditory nerve, impulse travels to the brain along the auditory nerve, causing the sensation of sound.causing the sensation of sound.


Two Types of Hearing LossTwo Types of Hearing Loss

Damage to the delicate structures of Damage to the delicate structures of your ears can result in the loss of your your ears can result in the loss of your ability to hear. There are two types of ability to hear. There are two types of hearing loss:hearing loss:

1. Conductive1. Conductive

2. Sensory2. Sensory


Conductive Hearing LossConductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing lossConductive hearing loss is caused by is caused by damage to or a malfunction of the outer damage to or a malfunction of the outer and middle ear. It results in a decrease in and middle ear. It results in a decrease in your hearing, but you can still understand your hearing, but you can still understand speech.speech.


Causes of Conductive Hearing LossCauses of Conductive Hearing LossSeveral medical disorders cause Several medical disorders cause conductive hearing loss. These conductive hearing loss. These disorders can be treated medically or disorders can be treated medically or surgically. These disorders are:surgically. These disorders are: - Middle ear infections- Middle ear infections - Perforation of - Perforation of the eardrumthe eardrum - Fixation of the ossicular chain- Fixation of the ossicular chain - Otosclerosis- Otosclerosis


Sensory Hearing LossSensory Hearing Loss

Sensory hearing lossSensory hearing loss is a hearing loss is a hearing loss caused by damage to or a malfunction of caused by damage to or a malfunction of the inner ear, auditory nerve, or the brain. the inner ear, auditory nerve, or the brain. It makes it more difficult to understand It makes it more difficult to understand speech, but it does not result in a speech, but it does not result in a decrease in loudness.decrease in loudness.


Causes of Sensory Hearing LossCauses of Sensory Hearing LossCauses of sensory hearing loss are:Causes of sensory hearing loss are: - Hereditary - Hereditary - Damage to fetus - Damage to fetus - Aging - Aging - Noise - Noise - Disease - Disease - Injury - Injury - Drugs- DrugsSensory hearing loss CANNOT be corrected Sensory hearing loss CANNOT be corrected medically or surgically. It is permanent.medically or surgically. It is permanent. As you can As you can see from the above list, hearing loss in the see from the above list, hearing loss in the workplace would most likely be a sensory hearing workplace would most likely be a sensory hearing loss.loss.


Types of Hearing Protection DevicesTypes of Hearing Protection Devices

Many types of hearing protection Many types of hearing protection devices are available. Popular types of devices are available. Popular types of hearing protection devices are:hearing protection devices are:

1. Foam Earplugs1. Foam Earplugs

2. PVC Earplugs2. PVC Earplugs

3. Earmuffs3. Earmuffs


Earplugs - Advantages & DisadvantagesEarplugs - Advantages & Disadvantages

Each of the types of hearing protection devices has its Each of the types of hearing protection devices has its advantages and disadvantages. advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of The advantages of Foam and PVC earplugs are:Foam and PVC earplugs are: 1. Small & lightweight;1. Small & lightweight; 2. Comfortable in hot environments; and2. Comfortable in hot environments; and 3. Easily used with other safety equipment.3. Easily used with other safety equipment.The disadvantages of earplugs are:The disadvantages of earplugs are: 1. May work loose and require occasional refitting;1. May work loose and require occasional refitting; 2. Require specific fitting instructions; and2. Require specific fitting instructions; and 3. Are frequently soiled.3. Are frequently soiled.


Earmuffs - Advantages & DisadvantagesEarmuffs - Advantages & DisadvantagesEarmuffs are another type of hearing protection Earmuffs are another type of hearing protection device. device. The advantages of earmuffs are:The advantages of earmuffs are: 1. Easy for your employer to supervise the wearing 1. Easy for your employer to supervise the wearing of this device;of this device; 2. One size fits all; and2. One size fits all; and 3. Fits better for longer periods of time.3. Fits better for longer periods of time.The disadvantages of earmuffs are:The disadvantages of earmuffs are: 1. May fit tight on your head;1. May fit tight on your head; 2. Uncomfortable in a warm environment; and2. Uncomfortable in a warm environment; and 3. Problems occur when used with other equipment.3. Problems occur when used with other equipment.


When Should You Wear a Hearing When Should You Wear a Hearing Protection Device?Protection Device?

You should wear a hearing protection You should wear a hearing protection device whenever you are exposed to device whenever you are exposed to noise that is 85 decibels or greater for noise that is 85 decibels or greater for an 8-hour period of time.an 8-hour period of time.


Wearing Hearing Protection DevicesWearing Hearing Protection Devices

Foam EarplugsFoam Earplugs Foam earplugs provide the Foam earplugs provide the most protection.most protection. To insert foam earplugs properly:To insert foam earplugs properly: - Reach around the back of your head, and - Reach around the back of your head, and gently pull your ear back and up. gently pull your ear back and up. - Roll the plug into a small diameter. - Roll the plug into a small diameter. - Insert the plug well into the ear canal. - Insert the plug well into the ear canal. - Hold the plug in place for a few seconds - Hold the plug in place for a few seconds while it expands and forms a good seal.while it expands and forms a good seal.



PVC EarplugsPVC Earplugs To insert PVC earplugs To insert PVC earplugs properly: properly: - Reach around the back of your head, - Reach around the back of your head, and gently pull your ear back and up.and gently pull your ear back and up. - Begin to insert the plug into the ear canal.- Begin to insert the plug into the ear canal. - Work the plug well into the ear canal using - Work the plug well into the ear canal using a circular motion.a circular motion. - Once inserted, wait a few seconds to make - Once inserted, wait a few seconds to make sure the plug is securely fitted into your ear.sure the plug is securely fitted into your ear.



Earmuffs fit over the outside of the ears. Because Earmuffs fit over the outside of the ears. Because their effectiveness is limited to the quality of the seal their effectiveness is limited to the quality of the seal around your ear, they are often not as effective as around your ear, they are often not as effective as earplugs. For this reason, a combination of earplugs earplugs. For this reason, a combination of earplugs and earmuffs are used in some work environments.and earmuffs are used in some work environments. When using earmuffs: When using earmuffs: - Make sure that the earmuffs fit snugly around - Make sure that the earmuffs fit snugly around your ears.your ears. - Consider using earplugs if you wear glasses, - Consider using earplugs if you wear glasses, earrings, or have facial hair that would prevent the earrings, or have facial hair that would prevent the earmuffs from forming a good seal around your earmuffs from forming a good seal around your ears.ears.


Caring for Hearing Protection DevicesCaring for Hearing Protection DevicesFoam EarplugsFoam Earplugs - When not using your foam earplugs, store them in - When not using your foam earplugs, store them in a clean, cool, dry place.a clean, cool, dry place. - If your foam earplugs become soiled, torn or stiff, - If your foam earplugs become soiled, torn or stiff, discard them and ask your supervisor or safety discard them and ask your supervisor or safety manager for a new pair.manager for a new pair. Earmuffs Earmuffs - When not using your earmuffs, store them in a - When not using your earmuffs, store them in a clean, cool, dry place. clean, cool, dry place. - Always inspect your earmuffs for cracks around - Always inspect your earmuffs for cracks around the foam cups. If your earmuffs are damaged, have the foam cups. If your earmuffs are damaged, have them repaired immediately or ask your supervisor or them repaired immediately or ask your supervisor or safety manager for a new pair.safety manager for a new pair.


PVC EarplugsPVC Earplugs - When not using your PVC earplugs, store - When not using your PVC earplugs, store them in a clean, cool, dry place.them in a clean, cool, dry place. - If your PVC earplugs become soiled, you - If your PVC earplugs become soiled, you can clean them with a mild solution of soap can clean them with a mild solution of soap and water. Rinse, then dry them with a soft and water. Rinse, then dry them with a soft towel.towel. - If your PVC earplugs become torn or brittle, - If your PVC earplugs become torn or brittle, discard them and ask your supervisor or discard them and ask your supervisor or safety manager for a new pair.safety manager for a new pair.

p p & e personal protective equipment

Documents

piece of ppe

proper use of ppe

sources of high

sources of rolling

sources of motion

sources of electric

sources of sharp objects

sources of nuclear radiation