The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 requires personal protective equipment (PPE) to be provided and used, where there is a risk to health and safety that cannot be controlled by other means. PPE means all equipment which is intended to be worn or held by a person to protect them from risks to health and safety whilst at work. Examples of PPE would include gloves, aprons, hard hats and eye or face protectors.
Leuchie will provide PPE where the risks presented by a work activity cannot be eliminated or controlled by other means. Where PPE is provided, it is because health and safety hazards have been identified that require its use and it is therefore necessary to use it to reduce the risks to a minimum.
Managers, employees and volunteers must ensure that PPE items are properly maintained, and that employees and volunteers are provided with adequate information, instruction and training in their use.
PPE can only be effective in protecting the wearer if the following steps are taken –
- Only use PPE in accordance with the instructions provided and for the activity for which it is designed to provide protection from.
- Only use the PPE if you are fully trained in its use.
- Store, clean, repair and maintain PPE correctly replacing any items which have been damaged and are not reparable.
- Report any damage to items of PPE immediately and remove from use so that others are not putting themselves at risk by using it.
The implementation of this policy requires the co-operation of all members of staff. Line managers will identify in risk assessments where there is a requirement for PPE. Employees will be responsible for any PPE which is purchased for the individual. It is the responsibility of the user to report any defects to their line manager and to not use any PPE which could be defective.
Line managers
Line managers are responsible for –
- Conducting and reviewing risk assessments and implementing control measures where necessary.
- Ensuring that where an assessment identifies the need for PPE that suitable PPE is provided.
- Ensuring that those who require the PPE are given instruction and training on its use.
- Ensuring that employees are aware of where PPE is stored.
- Ensuring that PPE is maintained and monitored.
- Ensuring that employees use any PPE which is provided.
- Ensuring that any injuries, ill health or accidents relating to the PPE is investigated and action required is taken.
All employees and volunteers
Employees and volunteers are responsible for ensuring –
- PPE is used if it has been provided.
- Attending training sessions and complying with the training and instruction given.
- Checking the condition of the PPE prior to use and reporting any defects.
- That it is returned to the correct storage area following use.
- It is cleaned and maintained correctly.
- Any losses or damage is reported to their line manager immediately.
Risk assessments which are carried out within a department must be kept and updated regularly or following a change in a work process. Training records which show training on the use of PPE must also be kept along with the risk assessments.