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| Safety Notes |  |
Personal
protective equipment (PPE) is worn by workers to minimize exposure to
specific occupational hazards, usually when other means of hazard control
have failed to reduce exposure levels. For this reason it is often referred
to as the last resort for the protection of workers. Commonly used items
include safety glasses, safety footwear, respirators, hard hats, gloves
and lab coats.
When using or selecting protective equipment keep the following in mind:
Match the equipment to the hazard. Many items are product specific; check the manufacturer's specifications. What is effective against one hazard may not protect against others.
Match the PPE to the worker. Poorly fitted items might not provide adequate protection. You may need to try a variety of styles to find the right personal fit, and once it's fitted to one worker it should not be shared.
Perform regular maintenance such as cleaning. Worn or damaged equipment must be replaced or repaired immediately.
Review industry standards. In some instances, protective equipment is mandated by law, e.g., the requirements for safety footwear and hard hats under Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. If you work around chemicals, check the Materials Safety Data Sheets list for recommendations, such as glove type, for use with the product.
If you need help with the use and selection of the proper gear for your situation, contact the Office of Safety and Environmental Services.
A
review of last year's accident statistics indicates that falls (from the
level on which one is standing) are the most common workplace accident
on campus (see Communicator, Vol. 15, No. 2-3). These are generally slip
or trip accidents, commonly caused by wet or oily surfaces, weather hazards,
and obstacles impeding normal foot traffic.
To prevent and avoid these accidents:
Clean up spills immediately.
Mark wet floor areas with caution signs to warn others.
Keep walkways free of clutter and debris.
Close file cabinet and desk drawers when you're not using them.
Cover cables through walkways or re-route them around heavy
traffic areas.
Keep work areas and walkways well lit. Report burnt-out lights.
Make sure your footwear fits well and is suitable for the walking surface.
Adjust your stride to the walking surface and to the task.
Ensure that objects being carried or pushed do not obstruct your view.
Take your time and pay attention to your surroundings.