Introduction
Personal protective equipment (PPE) comprises a range of clothing and equipment which is worn by employees, students, contractors or visitors as appropriate to protect or shield their bodies from workplace hazards.
Section 19 of the Act states (in part):
- An employer shall, so far as is practicable, provide and maintain a working environment in which his employees are not exposed to hazards and in particular, but without limiting the generality of the foregoing, an employer shall where it is not practicable to avoid the presence of hazards at the workplace, provide his employees with, or otherwise provide for his employees to have, such adequate personal protective clothing and equipment as is practicable to protect them against those hazards, without any cost to the employees.
The Codes of Practice: First Aid Facilities and Services, Workplace Amenities and Facilities, Personal Protective Clothing and Equipment 2002, provides guidance on the selection, provision and use of PPE. In addition it provides PPE requirements for specific hazards. The Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996 should also be used to provide guidance on PPE requirements.
In the Hierarchy of Controls (Elimination, Substitution, Engineering, Administration and PPE), personal protective equipment is considered the least satisfactory method in the prevention of work-related injury or illness and is only to be used when other measures are not feasible or cannot be implemented immediately. PPE should also be used however, to supplement or augment other means of hazard control, to further minimise the risk of injury.
Issues affecting use of PPE include discomfort and inconvenience, and inappropriate or poorly-maintained equipment. |
It is therefore vital that problems caused by inadequate selection, fit and maintenance do not undermine the effectiveness of the PPE.
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Types of PPE
PPE can be considered in the following categories, based on the type of protection afforded by the equipment:
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- eg disposable, cartridge, air line, half or full face |
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– eg spectacles/goggles, shields, visors |
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– eg ear muffs and plugs |
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– eg gloves and barrier creams |
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– eg shoes/boots |
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– eg helmets, caps, hoods, hats |
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- eg harness and fall arrest devices |
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– eg hats, sunburn cream, long sleeved clothes |
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- eg protective clothing for cryogenic work or environments with high temperatures. |
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Responsibilities for PPE
Management must ensure that:
- the needs for PPE are assessed by a person who is competent to judge whether other methods of risk control can offer better protection of safety and health than the provision of PPE.
- professional advice is obtained, where necessary, to identify the most suitable types of PPE for the tasks to be carried out.
- training is provided to supervisors and employees to enable them to ensure the proper selection, fit, use, cleaning and maintenance of PPE.
- supervision and enforcement of the PPE policy is undertaken.
- evaluation of the effectiveness of the PPE program is carried out on a regular basis.
- suitable PPE is provided for visitors who may be exposed to hazards in the workplace. At UWA this includes students where appropriate. Equipment shall be properly cleaned before re-issue.
- all equipment shall comply with current relevant Australian Standards and should be stamped or labeled with an AS compliance marking. Existing PPE shall be re-assessed regularly to ensure compliance.
According to Regulation 3.35, employees:
(a) must use the protective clothing or equipment in a manner in which he or she has been properly instructed to use it;
(b) must not misuse or damage the clothing or equipment; and
(c) must, as soon as practicable after becoming aware of any -
(i) damage to;
(ii) malfunction of; or
(iii) need to clean or sterilize, the clothing or equipment, notify the person providing the clothing or equipment of the damage, malfunction or need to clean or sterilize the clothing or equipment.
Sources of More Detailed Information
- AS 1067.1 Sunglasses and fashion spectacles: Part 1 - Safety requirements
- AS 1067.2 Sunglasses and fashion spectacles: Part 2 - Performance requirements.
- AS/NZS 1269:1998 Occupational noise management
- AS/NZS 1270:1999 Acoustics - hearing protectors
- AS 1319: 1994 Safety signs for the occupational environment
- AS/NZS 1336: 1997 Recommended practices for occupational eye protection
- AS/NZS 1337: 1992 Eye protectors for industrial applications
- AS/NZS 1338 : 1992 Filters for eye protectors
- AS/NZS 1338.1: 1992 Filters for protection against radiation generated in welding and allied operations
- AS/NZS 1338.2: 1992 Filters for protection against ultraviolet radiation
- AS/NZS 1338.3: 1992 Filters for protection against infra-red radiation
- AS 1558 Protective clothing for welders (inc. Amendment 1)
- AS/NZS 1715 : 1994 Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective devices
- AS/NZS 1716: 1994 Respiratory protective devices
- AS/NZS 1800:1998 Occupational protective helmets - Selection, care and use
- AS.NZS 1801: 1997 Occupational protective helmets (inc. Amendment 1)
- AS/NZS 1891.1:1995 Industrial fall arrest systems and devices –
Part 1:Safety belts and harnesses
- AS/NZS 1891.3 : 1997 Industrial fall arrest systems and devices –
Part 3: Fall-arrest devices
- AS/NZS 1891.4 : 2000 Industrial fall arrest systems and devices –
Part 4 : Selection, use and maintenance
- AS/NZS 2161.1:2000 Occupational protective gloves - Part 1: Selection, use and maintenance.
- AS/NZS 2161.2:1998 Occupational protective gloves - Part 2: General requirements
- AS/NZS 2161.3:1998 Occupational protective gloves - Part 3 :Protection against mechanical risks
- AS/NZS 2161.4:1999 Occupational protective gloves - Part 4 :Protection against thermal risks (heat and fire)
- AS/NZS 2161.5:1998 Occupational protective gloves - Part 5 :Protection against cold
- AS/NZS 2161.7.1: 1998 Occupational protective gloves - Part 7.1 : Protection against cuts and stabs by hand knives – chainmail gloves and arm guards.
- AS/NZS 2210.1:1994 Occupational protective footwear – Part 1:Guide to selection, care and use.
- AS 2225 Insulating gloves for electrical purposes
- AS 2375 Guide to the selection, care and use of clothing for protection against heat and fire
- AS/NZS 2604:1998 Sunscreen products - Evaluation and classification
- AS 2865: 1995 Safe working in a confined space
- AS/NZS 4399:1996 Sun protective clothing - Evaluation and classification
- AS/NZS 4602:1999 High visibility safety garments.
Head Protection
Guidance is available in AS/NZS 1800:1998 Occupational protective helmets - Selection, care and use and AS/NZS 1801:1997 Occupational protective helmets (incorporating Amendment 1)
Application
In general, a safety helmet must be worn where:
- There is a possibility that a person may be struck on the head by a falling object;
- A person may strike his/her head against a fixed object; or
- Inadvertent head contact may be made with electrical hazards.
 It should be noted that 'bump caps', commonly worn to protect against minimum sideways impact, do not provide protection against any of the hazards described above.
Accessories
A wide range of accessories can be fitted to helmets to make them more suitable for variable working conditions. Examples are as follows:
- A retaining strap worn either under the chin or at the nape of the neck.
- A bracket and cable clip for the attachment of a lamp.
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An eye shield, face shield or welding shield.
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A wide brim for additional shade in hot climates.
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Neck flaps for protection against weather, molten metal splash, hot substances, etc.
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A lining for cold conditions.
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Ear muffs.
Care should be taken to ensure that accessories and their attachment systems do not reduce the safety characteristics of the helmet nor adversely affect the balance or comfort of the helmet. Particular care should be given to the electrical resistance.
Selection
The following should be considered:
- Nature and location of the work.
- Extent of adjustment for comfort.
- Accessories must be compatible with the make of helmet used.
- Sweat bands.
- For general purpose use, selection of white helmets will provide better heat reflection and are easily seen in poor lighting conditions.
Unsafe Practices
The following practices are considered detrimental to the safe working life and performance of the helmet and shall be avoided.
- Storage or placement of helmets near any window, particularly the rear window of motor vehicles, through which excessive heat can be generated. Note: Helmets placed on the rear window ledge of motor vehicles may also become dangerous missiles in the event of an accident or when sudden braking occurs.
- Follow manufacturer's cleaning instructions; the helmet may be damaged and rendered ineffective by petroleum and petroleum products, cleaning agents, paints, adhesives etc., without the damage being visible to the user.
- Alteration, distortion or damage to the shell, eg. splits and cracks, or to the harness.
- The use of safety helmets for any other purpose than that for which they are designed, eg. as seats, liquid receptacles, wheel chocks.
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Cleaning
It is recommended that safety helmets be cleaned regularly. In general, normal washing methods using warm water and soap are adequate. The use of solvents, very hot water, or harsh abrasives is not advisable. |
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Inspection and Maintenance
All safety helmet components and accessories should be visually inspected prior to use by the wearer, for signs of dents, cracks, penetration or other damage due to impact, rough treatment or unauthorised alterations which may reduce the degree of safety originally provided.
Helmets showing damage or deterioration to the shell should be immediately withdrawn from service and discarded (completely destroyed). Helmets with sound shells but with damaged or defective harness components should be withdrawn from service and the complete harness and cradle replaced. |
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Reissue of Safety Helmets
No safety helmet should be reissued unless the helmet has been thoroughly cleaned and inspected. In general, when a helmet is being re-issued to a different person at least a new sweatband should be fitted. |
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Working Life
Excessive discolouration of the shell colour or weathering of the surface may indicate a loss of strength. Helmets which have been in service for longer than 3 years should be thoroughly inspected and replaced as necessary.
Plastic components of harnesses may deteriorate more rapidly under aggressive service conditions and in these cases harnesses should be replaced at intervals not longer than 2 years. |
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Sun Hats
People who are required to work outdoors shall be provided with a hat which affords maximum protection from the sun. The hat chosen for this purpose will reflect the nature of the work, duration of exposure, and other PPE required e.g goggles, earmuffs etc. Sun hats shall provide a suitable brim, peak or neck flap as appropriate. |
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Wet Weather Hats
People who are required to work outdoors during periods of rainfall, shall be provided with a waterproof hat or hood which offers the maximum amount of protection practicable having regard to the nature of the work, duration of exposure and other PPE required e.g goggles, earmuffs etc. |
Eye Protection
Guidance is available in :
- AS/NZS 1336:1997 Recommended practices for occupational eye protection.
- AS/NZS 2211.1:1997 Laser Safety: Part 1 Equipment, classification, requirements and uses guide.
- AS/NZS 2211.1:1997 Laser Safety: Part 2 Safety of optical fibre communication systems.
- AS/NZS 4173: 1994 Guide for the safe use of lasers in health care.
- AS/NZS 1337:1992 Eye protectors for industrial applications.
- AS/NZS 1338 :1992 Filters for eye protectors.
- AS/NZS 1338.1 :1992 Filters for protection against radiation generated in welding and allied operations.
- AS/NZS 1338.2 :1992 Filters for protection against ultraviolet radiation.
- AS/NZS 1338.3 :1992 Filters for protection against infra-red radiation.
- AS 1067.1 Sunglasses and fashion spectacles : Part 1 - Safety requirements.
- AS 1067.2 Sunglasses and fashion spectacles : Part 2 - Performance requirements.
 Application
Appropriate hazard specific eye protection shall be provided for all people where a risk of eye injury exists. Typical hazards might include: flying particles, dust, splashing substances, harmful gases, vapours, aerosols, and high intensity radiation from welding operations, lasers, transilluminators and strong heat sources.
Consideration must be given to the need for protecting persons who are working nearby or passing close to hazardous areas. It is essential that the maximum degree of eye protection is provided. Tables 4.1 and 4.2 of AS/NZS 1336:1997 provide guidance on selection of eye protection.
Selection
The following should be considered:
- Nature of risk to the eyes e.g radiation, impact, dust/abrasive particles, liquid/chemical splash or spray etc.
- Conditions under which the person is working .
- Visual requirements of the task .
- Personal preference/comfort of wearer. This may include appearance, weight, ventilation and unrestricted vision.
- Condition of person’s eyesight.
The following general eye protectors are available:
- Goggles - An eye protector fitting the contour of the face and held in position by an adjustable headband.
- Wide Vision Goggles - An eye protector in which the lens or lenses extend over the full width of the face affording a large field of vision.
- Welding Helmet - A rigid eye protector which is worn by the operator to shield the eyes, face, forehead and front of the neck.
- Welding Handshield - A rigid eye protector which is held in the hand to shield the eyes, face, forehead and front of the neck.
- Faceshield - A device which includes a transparent visor, supported in front of the face to shield the eyes.
- Safety Spectacles - An eye protector with protective lenses mounted in spectacle-type frames, or integrally moulded into the frames with or without side shields, and held in position by the side arms.
- Tinted Safety Spectacles/Goggles - These may be provided to employees who require eye protection and who are generally required to work outdoors.
Eye Protection against Ultraviolet and Infrared Radiation
Processes requiring moderate reduction of visible radiation and protection from ultraviolet and infrared radiation:
- For gas welding and cutting, and resistance welding and brazing, suitable eye protection must be provided to guard against possible invisible radiation. Sufficient protection will usually be given by goggles fitted with filters of shade number 3 to 7 inclusive. (See AS/NZS 1338.1 :1992).
Processes requiring considerable reduction of visible radiation and protection from ultraviolet and infrared radiation:
- In processes producing ultraviolet light but where infrared radiation is not a hazard, e.g photographic reproduction work or use of transilluminators, eye protectors with ultraviolet filters should be used in accordance with AS/NZS 1338.2 : 1992.
- For work near furnaces or other intense heat sources, where both heat and visible light are produced but ultraviolet light is not a hazard, eye protectors with infrared filters in accordance with AS/NZS 1338.3 :1992 should be used.
- For arc welding and cutting operations, protection must be provided against invisible radiation. Adequate face and eye protection in these cases can be obtained by the use of a helmet or hand shield fitted with filters having shade numbers 8 to 15 inclusive, as appropriate.
(See AS/NZS 1338.1 : 1992.)
Eye Protection for Welders
Where a welder is likely to be exposed to stray radiation from similar nearby processes, it is essential that the person be protected while the helmet or handshield is not in use. This can be acheived by wearing either goggles or safety spectacles assembled with glass or plastic lenses of appropriate thickness and incorporating opaque sideshields. These eye protectors will also offer protection during the removal of slag after welding.
Any person who is required to remain in the vicinity of welding operations shall be protected against the possible harmful effects of ultraviolet and infrared radiation and, in addition, should be protected against excessive visible radiation. See AS/NZS 1338.1 :1992 Table A2.
Eye Protection for Persons Not Engaged in Welding Operations
Persons (other than welders and welders' assistants) whose duties require them to remain in the vicinity of arc welding operations or to pass through areas in which such operations are carried out should be protected against the possible dangerous effects of erythemal ultraviolet radiation. (See AS/NZS 1338).
Eye Protection Against Stray Radiation
Arc welding and similar operations should be carried out in screened enclosures. Where this is not possible, the use of mobile screens is recommended to shield other persons from stray radiation. Galvanised sheeting used for screening or other materials, which have relatively large reflective surfaces should be painted or treated with some form of light-absorbing substance.
Issue and Fitting of Eye Protection
Arrangements should be made for the issuing of personal eye protectors to ensure:
- Use of the correct type of eye protector; and
- That, wherever practicable, eye protectors are fitted to the wearer by a person who is competent to select the correct size and type.
Eye protectors may be issued in any of the following ways:
- For exclusive use by one employee/student.
- For temporary use by an employee/student for a particular operation.
- For temporary use by a visitor.
The choice between issue for exclusive use by one employee and temporary issue to different employees or students will depend on the frequency and duration of exposure to hazards and the type of eye protector provided.
Fogging and Perspiration
When necessary, suitable anti-fogging compound should be made available for use with eye protectors. Sweat bands may be necessary for extreme conditions. Anti-fog type goggles are readily available.
Maintenance and Re-Issue
Measures should be taken to ensure proper maintenance of eye protectors. These measures include the following:
- The provision of proper facilities for storage, cleaning, servicing, and replacement of eye protectors and lenses.
- A system to ensure that all personnel are familiar with the arrangements for cleaning, repairing and replacing damaged or faulty equipment, and for correcting or adjusting uncomfortable eye protectors.
- Inspection and cleaning of all eye protectors at regular intervals, after use, and before re-issue to another person.
The manufacturer's instructions for the cleaning of eye protectors should be adhered to, and in the absence of such instructions the following affords guidance: e.g wash the eye protector thoroughly with non-abrasive soap or detergent and warm water using a soft cloth, then rinse and dry. Avoid the use of any substance likely to scratch the surface of the lenses. Suitable tissues in wall-mounted dispensers for the work situation should be available for lens cleaning.
Replacement
Eye protectors and lenses should be replaced when usage, accidental damage or age has resulted in deterioration of the properties of the eye protectors to a stage where continued use could itself by hazardous, or where the eye protectors no longer comply with the relevant standard. In particular, lenses which have been scratched, abraded, pitted or otherwise damaged should be replaced because the protection afforded by them may be reduced and vision impaired.
EYE AND FACE PROTECTION
Eye and face protection must be made available to all employees or visitors to areas where chemicals are used and stored. Protective eye and face equipment must be worn where there is a reasonable probability of injury from hazardous chemicals. This document outlines when eye protection is needed, what type of eye protection is needed and lists sources for obtaining safety eyewear and prescription safety glasses.
Eye protection should be selected based on the following table:
Table of Eye Protection Selection Criteria
Operation |
Eye Protection Required |
Entry into laboratory or liquid chemical area when a reasonable probability of eye injury exists |
Safety glasses |
Handling corrosive chemicals |
Chemical splash goggles |
Handling injurious chemicals |
Chemical splash goggles |
Transferring more than one liter quantities of corrosive chemicals |
Splash goggles and face shield |
 Many laboratories on campus contain liquids, acids, bases and organic solvents that may present a splash hazard. Other nonlaboratory areas, like storerooms, farms, and maintenance areas may have corrosive or injurious chemicals or jobs that require eye protection be worn if the probability of an eye injury exists. These laboratories and other work areas will need to do a risk assessment and implement the eye and face protection policy accordingly. The risk assessment should evaluate the potential for an eye injury to occur and should determine the type of eye protection to be worn. Typical activities that would present the reasonable probability of eye injury include:
- Pipetting
- Opening centrifuge tubes
- Using syringes
- Mixing/vortexing
- Preparing solutions
- Titrations
- Pouring
The above list is not inclusive and you should consider all procedures that involve the potential for splash. Past accidents involving a splash to the eye would indicate a situation that requires eye protection. An employee working adjacent to an activity that requires eye protection, may require the adjacent employee to use eye protection. Different chemicals will require different eye protection based on the pH, the potential for skin/eye damage and the quantity handled.
The use of corrosives and injurious chemicals would definitely require eye protection. Liquid corrosive chemicals are those with a pH <= 4.0 or a pH >= 9. Solid chemicals are considered corrosive when in solution; they fall in the above pH range. A highly corrosive chemical has a pH <= 2 and >= 12.5. Injurious chemicals cause tissue destruction at the site of contact. For example, methylene chloride or methylethylketone peroxide. Refer to the MSDS for assistance in determining the injurious nature of chemicals and for recommendations on eye protection.
In the Chemistry Department, all employees or visitors are required to wear eye protection whenever they enter the lab due to their Department protocol and the high use of chemicals. In other laboratories or chemical use areas, eye protection must be worn whenever liquid chemicals are used or handled or the probability of an eye injury exists. At the MSU Power Plant, employees wear eye and face protection when transferring corrosives and handling water treatment chemicals.
Approved Safety glasses and Chemical Splash goggles can be found at General Stores and are carried by many vendors of laboratory supplies. Any safety glass certified to ANSI Z87 is acceptable. Goggles must be the chemical splash type with indirect vents and NOT the direct-vented impact goggles. Face shields shall be worn over the top of splash goggles. Employees should have their own pair of safety glasses as a minimum. The glasses should fit and the lenses should not be scratched or clouded. Tinted lenses are not recommended for normal indoor activities.
For wearers of prescription eyeglasses, these are not safety glasses unless they have both side shields and shatter resistant lenses. Prescription eyeglass wearers can take their prescription to Wallace Opticians, 3040 Vine, Frandor Shopping Mall, Lansing. 332-8628 to get prescription safety glasses. Alternatively, prescription eyeglass wearers may use the over-the-glass safety glass
OSHA requires employers to ensure the safety of all employees in the work environment. Eye and face protection must be provided whenever necessary to protect against chemical, environmental, radiological or mechanical irritants and hazards. Eye and face protection is addressed in specific standards for the general industry, shipyard employment, longshoring, and the construction industry. This page highlights OSHA standards, Federal Registers (rules, proposed rules, and notices), standard interpretations (official letters of interpretation of the standards), and national consensus standards related to eye and face protection.
OSHA
Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act, often referred to as the General Duty Clause, requires employers to "furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees". Section 5(a)(2) requires employers to "comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under this Act".
Hearing Protection
 Application
It is a statutory obligation for an employer to provide personal hearing protection as necessary for any person working in or near a noisy environment. The need for hearing protection shall be assessed by implementing noise surveys in potential noise hazard areas. Noise surveys can be arranged by the Safety and Health.
Types of Hearing Protection
The following hearing protection devices are commonly available.
- Disposable Hearing Protection Device - A hearing protection device formed by packing a suitable material into or around the ear canal. Disposable hearing protection devices are discarded after a single wearing.
- Earplug- A hearing protection device, other than disposable hearing protection devices, that is inserted into the ear canal.
- Ear Canal Cap- A hearing protection device that covers the ear canal entrance and is held in place by a headband.
- Earmuff- A hearing protection device that covers the entire ear and is held in place by a suspension system.
- Helmet- A hearing protection device that covers the ears and an appreciable part of the head.
- Suspension System- A device that holds the hearing protection device in proper position on the wearer's head. A suspension system may be a headband, a neckband or a safety helmet.
Selection
The following factors must be considered:
- The device must attenuate noise to a level not greater than 85 dB(A).
- Weight.
- For earmuffs, and ear canal caps, the clamping force.
- Suitability for use with other personal protection equipment such as helmets, goggles etc.
- Acceptability to the wearer.
Marking
The following information shall be marked on every hearing protection device, except earplugs for which the information shall be on their storage container or on a nameplate securely attached thereto:
- The name or registered tradename or mark of the manufacturer.
- Product identification or catalogue number.
- Directions to indicate how the hearing protection device has to be worn if it cannot be worn symmetrically, e.g. 'top', 'front'.
No hearing protection device shall be used unless it complies with current relevant Australian Standards and carries the AS compliance mark.
Protection against the effects of noise exposure shall be provided when the sound levels exceed those shown in Table G-16 when measured on the A scale of a standard sound level meter at slow response. When noise levels are determined by octave band analysis, the equivalent A-weighted sound level may be determined as follows:
Equivalent sound level contours. Octave band sound pressure levels may be converted to the equivalent A-weighted sound level by plotting them on this graph and noting the A-weighted sound level corresponding to the point of highest penetration into the sound level contours. This equivalent A-weighted sound level, which may differ from the actual A-weighted sound level of the noise, is used to determine exposure limits from Table 1.G-16.
When employees are subjected to sound exceeding those listed in Table G-16, feasible administrative or engineering controls shall be utilized. If such controls fail to reduce sound levels within the levels of Table G-16, personal protective equipment shall be provided and used to reduce sound levels within the levels of the table.
If the variations in noise level involve maxima at intervals of 1 second or less, it is to be considered continuous.
EFFECTS OF LOUD NOISE
The World Health Organization's “Guidelines For Community Noise,” details the numerous health problems associated with working or living in a noisy environment, without hearing protection. The main health problems concluded by the WHO consists of:
· Problems With Speech
· Fatigue
· Lack Of Concentration
· Hearing Problems
· Irritability
· Problems With Sleep e.g. decreased REM
· Mood Changes
The health problems reported are diverse and affect almost every human system. This is why it is a good idea to wear hearing protectors, to reduce the amount of noise around you.
DECIBEL POINTS
Although you may think Decibel was Jezebel's younger sister, nothing could be further from the truth. A decibel (dB) is a measure of sound intensity. The scale runs from the faintest sound the human ear can detect, which is labeled 0 dB, to over 180 dB, the noise at a rocket pad during blast off. By the way, a rock concert averages 110-120 dB Here are a few decibel level for some of our more popular sounds: Whisper 30, 60 normal conversation 60, lawnmower 90 , auto horn 115, gun muzzle blast 140. According to the experts, properly fitted earplugs or muffs reduce noise by 15 to 30 dB. The better earplugs and muffs are approximately equal in sound reductions, although foam ear plugs are better for low frequency noise and earmuffs for high frequency noise.
EAR PLUGS FOR EVERY SITUATION:
When loud noise becomes a health or safety issue, ear plugs are one product that can help protect you from hearing damage. However, not all ear plugs are the same. Choose ear plugs that best meet your needs. For instance, if you’re wearing ear plugs all day long, you want to consider the comfort of the ear plugs. Choose low foam ear plugs which don’t place pressure in your ear canal. In an environment where visibility is important (like food processing plants), choose ear plugs designed to be seen, such as Laser-Trak ear plugs. The Laser-Trak ear plugs also come with a cord, making it easy for you to keep track of both plugs. When you want ear plugs that have low sound distortion, try the Express pod plugs, which come with a grip for easy insertion into the ear.
EAR MUFF FOR HEARING PROTECTION
Employees need hearing protection that drowns out loud noise. However, blocking out too much sound can create a situation where workers aren’t attuned to their environment. By selecting the proper ear muffs for hearing protection, you’ll be providing the insurance your workers need to thrive in a noisy area. Ear muffs have varying degrees of hearing protection which are described below:
Noise blocking – Noise blocking ear muffs keep out the noise you don’t want. Top of the line noise blocking ear muffs will give you maximum attenuation at all frequencies. An economical version can provide protection for short term situations in work environments.
Sound management – Sound management ear muffs use technology to get rid of unwanted noise while allowing workers to hear normal conversation. Features like alarm warnings add to the safety of these ear muffs.
Respiratory Protection
 Application
- The University shall take all practicable measures to ensure that no employee is exposed to an atmosphere that is or may be injurious to health.
- The University shall also ensure that no person at the workplace is exposed to an atmospheric contaminant at concentrations in excess of exposure standards or an un-breatheable atmosphere as outlined in Division 3 of the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996.
- In complying with this requirement, the University shall, as far as practicable, avoid the presence of the contaminant concerned or control the level of the contaminant using:
- a ventilation or exhaust system that effectively extracts the contaminant or, if impractical;
- other suitable means.
Where it is not possible to so remove the contaminant the University shall provide suitable respiratory protective equipment in accordance with Section 6 of AS/NZS 1715 :1994.
Classification of Hazards
- Deficiency of oxygen;
- Particulate contaminants;
- Gaseous or vapour contaminants.
Types of Protective Devices
There are 2 main types:
- Air purifying devices;
- Devices which supply air.
Air Purifying Devices
NOTE: These can not be used in oxygen depleted atmospheres.
Air purifying devices fall into major categories as follows:
- Dust masks – Used for protection against nuisance dusts such as sawdust, chalk, plant related and sanding dusts. These are generally not suitable for toxic substances.
- Gas filters - Filter fitted into a half face mask, full face mask or hood, suitable for removing low concentrates of certain gases and vapours.
Filters have limited use and storage lives and are specific to certain gases or vapours. Filters are also mask specific (ie. filters are matched to a particular make of mask).
- Particulate Filters - These are used to remove finely divided solid or liquid particles from the inhaled air. Particulate filters have a prefix 'P' and a number indicating a class corresponding to filtration efficiency against a laboratory challenge aerosol of sodium chloride. P1, P2 and P3 filters roughly correspond to the former L, M and H cartridges.
There are 3 types of particulate filter suitable for filtering finely divided solid or liquid particles, or both, from the inhaled air. These are classified, in accordance with tests in AS 1716: 1994, as follows:
- CLASS (P1) Intended for use against mechanically generated particulates, (e.g silica, asbestos).
- CLASS (P2) Intended for use against both mechanically and thermally generated particulates, (e.g metal fumes).
- CLASS (P3) Intended for use against all particulates including highly toxic materials, (e.g beryllium). Class P3 requires a full face mask.
Note: Cotton fibre or plastic foam pads are not permitted.
- Combined gas and particulate filters Filter combinations are used where both hazard types may exist.
Devices which Supply Air
These include airline respirators and self contained breathing apparatus. Use of this equipment requires detailed training. Example of use areas may be spray booths, PC4 biohazard labs and sandblasting. Further details are available from the Safety and Health.
Selection
If in doubt contact the Safety and Health.
Factors which influence selection include:
- Adequacy of warning available.
- Type of hazard.
- Concentration of contaminant.
- Acuteness of hazard i.e. effect of short exposure.
- Time spent in contaminated atmosphere.
- Nature of the working environment.
- Activity of the wearer.
- Mobility of the wearer.
- Whether for routine or emergency use.
Fitting
Achieving a good facial seal is essential. Facial hair such as beards and sideburns prevent a close fit and spectacles or even facial irregularity may also present problems. Tests involving detection of odour and gross leakage should be carried out as described in AS/NZS 1715:1994.
Instruction
Training in the correct use of equipment is required by law.
Instruction shall include:
- How to recognise the need to wear the device.
- Importance of conscientiously wearing the device.
- How the device works.
- Application and limitations of the device.
- How to determine if it is working properly.
- The time for which the device will give protection.
- Procedure for dealing with an emergency when the device is being worn.
- Importance of not removing the device until it is safe to do so.
- Importance of taking care of the device, cleaning, maintenance, storage etc.
Maintenance
The Head of School/Section/Unit shall ensure that all respiratory protective devices are regularly checked, properly stored and maintained, cleaned and replaced (both mask and cartridges as appropriate) according to applicable standards and manufacturers advice. Appropriate supervision shall be exercised to ensure that equipment is used in accordance with instructions.
Skin Protection
Solar Radiation
Employees who are required to work outdoors and are exposed to the sun's rays should :
· Attempt to schedule work in full sun, outside the hours of 10am to 3pm.
· Use shade wherever possible.
· Wear dark, loose and closely woven clothing (long sleeved, button up, collared shirt).
· Wear a 10cm wide brimmed hat or hat with a neck flap.
· Wear gloves.
· Put on broad spectrum water resistant SPF30+ sunscreen at least 10 - 15 minutes before going out in the sun. Reapply every 2 hours while outdoors.
· Drink plenty of water.
· Wear close fitting EPF10 rated sunglassess that meet AS 1067 (1990).
· Check your skin regularly for changes.
Guidance is available in:
- Sunscreen - AS/NZS 26014 (1998) and AS 1067 (1990).
- Clothing - AS/NZS 4399 (1996).
- Eye protection - AS/NZS 1337 and AS/NZS 1338.
- Guidance note for the protection of workers from UV radiation in sunlight(1991) Worksafe Australia.
- Safetyline Essentials: Heat Stress. Worksafe WA.
Insect Repellents
Employees who are required to work outdoors in areas where insect borne disease may be contracted (e.g. Ross River Virus) shall be provided with an adequate supply of insect repellent. Selection of inspect repellents must take account of:
- Form of the product suitable for environmental conditions.
- User acceptance of product (odour, consistency, colour).
- Existence of product literature on health effects (e.g. allergic reactions, dermatitis, long term effects).
- Suitability and durability of packaging.
- Adequacy and permanence of labeling.
For regions where Ross River Virus is present, the Environmental Health Service of the Health Department of WA recommends covering up with loose clothing (mosquitoes bite through tight clothes) and the use of repellents containing between 5 – 20% of N,N-diethyltoluamide (DEET).
Hand Protection
Guidance is available in:
-
AS/NZS 2161.1:2000 Occupational protective gloves - Part 1: Selection, use and maintenance.
-
AS/NZS 2161.2:1998 Occupational protective gloves - Part 2: General requirements
-
AS/NZS 2161.3:1998 Occupational protective gloves - Part 3 :Protection against mechanical risks
-
AS/NZS 2161.4:1999 Occupational protective gloves - Part 4 :Protection against thermal risks (heat and fire)
-
AS/NZS 2161.5:1998 Occupational protective gloves - Part 5 :Protection against cold
-
AS/NZS 2161.7.1: 1998 Occupational protective gloves - Part 7.1 : Protection against cuts and stabs by hand knives – chainmail gloves and arm guards.
Application
The number of applications for which hand protection must be provided is too extensive to list. In general, protection shall be provided wherever there is a hazard. A comprehensive list of hazards must be compiled for each workplace and suitable hand protection obtained for each process.
Selection
 There is a vast range of hand protection. It is essential that the correct type is used for a specific task. Refer to suppliers catalogue and if in doubt seek advice from manufacturer or supplier. Sufficient stocks should be held to ensure that there is an adequate supply, particularly in the event that gloves become damaged. Consideration should be given to the need for a glove lining or inner glove or moisturizer/barrier cream where prolonged use of waterproof gloves is envisaged. A range of sizes should be available to accommodate individual requirements.
It is important to note that for protection from chemical hazards, a range of glove types may be required. One type of glove will not provide against protection against all chemical hazards, and compatibility charts need to be referred to, when identifying suitable gloves for a particular application. Gloves should be checked routinely for leaks and rejected gloves destroyed immediately.
Note that some people may develop an allergic reaction to latex gloves. Recommendations to avoid reactions include: provision of reduced protein and powder free gloves, ensure good housekeeping to reduce latex build up and advise workers to wash hands thoroughly after removing latex gloves.
Glove Selection Information |
The proper selection of gloves to match the type of exposure an employee may encounter is a major consideration.
OSHA has issued guidelines to help employers to establish a safe and healthy workplace environment by approving certain gloves and PPE based on these exposures. These guidelines do not certify a particular product. For example, in the case of possible worker exposure to blood-borne pathogens, OSHA simply recommends the use of "appropriate gloves" without specifically requiring the gloves to be Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved.
We will cover the basic selection criteria and discuss the various differences in types of gloves and their applications. We will also provide links to OSHA and other relevant sites to provide additional, more in-depth information. You may also contact Argus at anytime for one-on-one consultaion regarding your hand protection application.
Manufacturers Guidelines - Although many manufacturers offer guidelines, these are meant only as recommendations for appropriate glove use and are based on standard laboratory test methods. Such tests may not adequately replicate actual field conditions, so the ultimate responsibility of selecting the proper glove remains with the employer.
Glove Classifications - Because of the overlapping nature of glove groups, OSHA has not included a classification system for all type of gloves in the 29 CFR part 1910.1389 standard. The following group of glove-types will highlight the dificulty of developing an all encompasing classification scheme:
Material:
- Nitrile
- PVA
- Natural Latex
- Viton
- Urethane
- Nylon
- UHMWPE (Spectra)
- Neoprene
- PVC
- Butyl
- Laminate
- Cotton
- Aramid (Kevlar)
- Leather
Service Life:
- Disposable (single use)
- Light Duty
- Heavy Duty
|
End-Use:
- Industrial
- Critical Environment (clean room)
- Household
- Surgical
- Food handling
- Medical Exam
- Military
Protective Properties:
- Chemical resistant
- Abrasion resistant
- Heat/Cold resistant
- Cut Resistant
- Puncture resistant
- Cold resistant
- High-voltage insulating
|
Cuff:
- Straight
- Pinked
- Knit
- Safety
- Rolled
- Slip-on
- Gaunlet
Finish:
- Embossed
- Recessed Diamond
- Wrinkle
- Embossed Self-flushing
- Sandblast
- Bisque
- Rough
- Smooth
|
Gauge (thickness) - Glove thickness is measured in gauge or mil (0.018" gauge = 18mil). If you require more flexibility and a sensitive touch, choose a low gauge glove. When seeking more protection, choose a heavy gauge (thicker) material.
Supported vs. Unsupported - Supported gloves provide more durable hand protection than unsupported gloves of the same material. Generally, a supported glove has a fabric liner that is coated, while the unsupported glove is comprised of 100% compound produced by dipping directly into the compound. The unsupported glove provide more tactile sensitivity and dexterity.
Size - Properly fitted gloves are impotant for hand protection. Glove size can be established by use of a tape measure to determine the circumference of your hand around the palm area. For example, if your hand circumference is 9", you would wear approximately a size 9 glove. It is important to note that glove sizes vary, often gloves come ono-numeric sizes. Refer to the following chart for guidance.
Hand Circumference |
Non-Numerical |
Numerical |
6" |
Extra Small (XS) |
6 |
7" |
Small (S) |
7 |
8" |
Medium (M) |
8 |
9" |
Large (L) |
9 |
10 |
Extra large (XL) |
10 |
11 |
Extra extra Large (XXL) |
11 |
Length - The depth of the hand/arm immersion in solution, and the extent of splash protection needed are the main factors for determining glove length. Generally, to protect the hand and wrist, you would select a glove 9 to 14" long (23 to 36cm). Protecting the forearm requires elbow lenth gloves 14 to 18" long (36 to 46cm); and full arm protection requires a 31" long (76cm) shoulder length glove, which is best suited for drum cleaning or dry box uses.
Chemical Resistance - Because of the many varied uses for gloves and chemicals found in the workplace, we recommend contacting us or visiting one of the provided links that offer the rated chemical resistance for glove materials. We also recommend consulting your IH department to match the proper material to chemical hazards found in your application. Issue of concern include:
Permeation - the resistance to chemicals breaking the gloves's protective film, which occurs at the molecular level.
Breakthrough - The elasped time between initial chemical contact and detection inside the glove
Low Detection Limit (LDL) - Measured in parts per million (PPM), this is the minimum level detected with analytical test equipment at breakthrough time.
Degradation - Physical properties of gloves may change due to contact with chemicals. Visually detectable changes include color variation, swelling, or stifness. Other changes may not be visIble. |
Foot Protection
 Application
Safety footwear provision falls under the guidelines provided by the AS/NZ Standard 2210.1:1994 Occupational protective footwear – Guide to selection, care and use.
Selection of footwear
It is important that footwear provide adequate protection from injury and comfortable support for the feet.
Occupational protective footwear is classified into types depending on the type of duties performed. The parameters include: grade of protective toecap, thickness and type of upper materials, and thickness and type of sole. Special features such as chemical resistant soles, penetration resistant mid soles and electrical conductive / antistatic properties are also available.
All risks associated with the job should be assessed to determine the specific requirements of the footwear.
Footwear types should especially be considered by the following people:
- Workshop, maintenance and people working in mechanical laboratories or on geological/agricultural/engineering field trips should wear suitable boots with steel caps.
- All people working in laboratories should wear enclosed footwear.
- People working in chemical laboratories should wear enclosed footwear that is resistant to spills of hazardous substances.
- People standing or walking for long periods should wear supportive, enclosed footwear.
Fitting and care of footwear
When purchasing new footwear ensure the following:
- Feet are measured for the correct size.
- Have shoes fitted whilst standing and towards the end of the day.
- Properly fitted footwear shouldn’t need to be ‘broken in’.
Shoes should have
- a firm heel counter and deep heel seat that holds the heel well and doesn’t slip as when walking.
- sufficient depth and width at the toes to prevent pressure on toes and nails.
- the sole should only bend at the ball of the foot. The shoe should not bend in the middle of the shoe under the arch.
- Firm, well padded synthetic or rubber sole with non slip tread.
- Soft upper with minimal stitching.
- Should be secured with laces.
- Heel of shoe should be less than 2.5 cm
- There should be little distortion on attempting to twist the shoe.
- The shape of the shoe should match your feet.
- Socks manufactured from natural fibres, preferably free of seams should be worn with footwear at all times.
Other items such as gaiters, or overshoes may be required for use with footwear. Footwear should be kept clean and stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. No unauthorised alterations should be made to the footwear.
GUIDELINE STATEMENT:
The intent of this program is to implement the need for foot protection and to set standards for foot protection
in various Board workplaces. In Board workplaces, falling or rolling objects, sharp objects, exposed
energized electrical conductors or other hazards can create a potential for foot injury. Whenever practicable,
these hazards shall be eliminated or reduced through the use of proper engineering and/ or administrative
controls. To protect against those hazards which continue to exist after all such control measures have been
implemented, appropriate protective footwear must be used. This standard is based on the Canadian
Standards Association (CSA) Standard Z195-M92, “Protective Footwear”. This guideline applies to workers
who may be exposed to foot injury from an operation or process conducted within a Upper Canada District
School Board workplace.
DEFINITIONS:
Electric Shock Resistant Sole:
• A sole and heel design and method of assembly to the footwear that, at the point of manufacturing, has
electrical insulating properties.
Protective Box Toe:
• The component which, when incorporated into the boot, provides protection against impact at the toe
of the boot. There are three grades (1,2,3)
Protective Footwear:
• A boot or shoe that provides a degree of protection against injury to the wearer as defined in CSA
Standard CAN/CSA-Z195-M92.
Protective Sole:
• An Integral component that gives puncture protection to the sole of the foot.
Static Dissispative footwear:
• A boot or shoe, the sole of which is made from antistatic compound, chemically bound into the
bottom components, for permanent control, to dissipate an electrostatic charge.
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Principals/Supervisors shall:
• ensure that a worker works in a manner and with the protective devices, measures and procedures
required by this Act and the regulations; (OH&S Act 27.(1) (a))and
• ensure that a worker uses or wears the equipment, protective devices or clothing that the worker’s
employer requires to be used or worn. (OH&S Act 27. (1)(b))
• ensure that a worker adheres to the safety footwear requirement.
• ensure temporary and occasional staff have the appropriate safety footwear for the tasks they are
involved in.
Workers will:
• work in compliance with the provisions of this Act and the regulations;(OH&S Act 28. (1)(a) and
• use or wear the equipment, protective devices or clothing that the worker’s employer requires to be
used or worn (OH&S Act 28. (1)(b) ;
• wear foot protection appropriate in the circumstance when exposed to the hazard of foot injury, and
• purchase and maintain protective footwear in good condition.
TIPS FOR PURCHASING SAFETY FOOTWEAR
• Purchase safety footwear from a reputable supplier.
• Have your feet measured and footwear fitted by a knowledgeable salesperson
• Select only CSA-approved safety footwear with the appropriate safety features.
• Select footwear with features that would be appropriate for your work environment.
• Select anti-slip sole characteristics best suited for your needs.
• If you wear heavy socks or use orthotic supports, use them when you have footwear fitted.
• Break the footwear in at home (clean environment) so if they don’t fit, they can be returned
Protection from Falls
A full body harness with lanyard attachment at the back should be used, to ensure a person cannot slip out of the harness. Systems must also be put in place to ensure that a person suspended this way can quickly be rescued if the need arises. The use of the harness and fall arrest systems requires good design, thorough planning, specialist advice and highly trained operators to ensure its success.
Further information available from Worksafe http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/WorkSafe/PDF/Codes_of_Practice/code_falls.pdf |
Other PPE
This may include PPE for specific tasks such as disposable clothing for working with chemicals, radiation hazards, welding, painting. Examples include: lead aprons for x-ray protection; sleeve protectors, aprons, coveralls when using chemicals; leather jackets, trousers and spats for welding; thermal and cold protective clothing for work near furnaces and cool rooms. |
Head & Face Selection Guide
The following information covers standards and reccommendations for protective head gear commonly used in constrution and industrial settings. We hope that this will guide you making an informed decision between the advanced head protection, classic head protection, and economy head protection, high-heat applications, or bump caps.
Hard Hat Replacement Guidelines
 Users of industrial head protection devices must realize that these products do not have an indefinite useful life. Argus recommends that a regular head protection replacement program be conducted by employers as a responsive solution to the task of addressing service life of hard hats/caps.
Since the details of such a program must be developed based on work conditions at each job site, it is impossible to provide a specific time frame for cap replacement. As a general guideline, many large corporations replace all employees' caps every five years, regardless of the cap's outward appearance
Where user environments are known to include higher exposure to temperature extremes, sunlight or chemicals, hard hats/caps should be replaced automatically after two years of use. This is based on information and cap samples returned after exposure to such conditions. In certain rare instances, a cap should be replaced within less than two years.
If a cap has been struck by a forcible blow of any magnitude, both the hard hat shell and suspension should be replaced immediately, even if no damage is visible.
The following is a simple field test that can be performed by an employee or supervisor to determine possible degradation of polyethylene shells:
Compress the shell inward from the sides about 1" (2.5 cm) with both hands and then release the pressure without dropping the shell. The shell should quickly return to its original shape, exhibiting elasticity. Compare the elasticity of the sample with that of a new shell. If the sample does not exhibit elasticity similar to that of a new shell, or if it cracks due to brittleness, it should be replaced immediately.
American National Standard for Industrial Head Protection
ANSI Z89.1-2003
This is the fifth revision of the standard that provides performance and testing requirements for industrial helmets, commonly known as hard hats. It is a revision of ANSI Z89.1-1997, which established the types and classes of protective helmets, depending on the type of hazard encountered. The 1997 version included specifications for helmets designed to offer protection from lateral impact, or top-only impact, giving employers and users the flexibility to specify the helmet that best meets the needs of their specific workplace.
Industrial head protective helmets meeting the requirements of the 2003 standard are classified as Type I for top protection or Type II for lateral impact protection. Both types are tested for impact attenuation and penetration resistance. Type II helmet performance requirements include criteria for impact energy attenuation from impacts from the front, back and sides as well as the top; off-center penetration resistance, and chin strap retention.
The three classes indicate the helmets electrical insulation rating, unchanged from 1997:
Class E (electrical) are tested to withstand 20,000 volts;
Class G (general) helmets are tested at 2200 volts; and
Class C (conductive) provide no electrical protection.
Changes in this revision of the standard are minor compared to the 1997 version. Redundancy in the previous test methods has been eliminated, with only the most severe anvil test retained. In an effort to recognize state-of-the-art materials performance and technology, some physical requirements for helmet components that did not provide added user value, or limited design or performance, were removed.
Copies of the standard are available from the ISEA. Order on-line at: www.safetyequipment.org
Bullard® Product Information
The following Bullard® hard hats/helmets meet the revised ANSI Z89.1-2003 standard:
Model |
Standard Type and Class |
3000 |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class E & G |
|
302RT ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class E & G |
303 |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class E & G |
5100 |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class E & G |
4100 |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class E & G |
911C |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class E & G |
911H |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class E & G |
5100P |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class E & G |
502 |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type I, Class G |
Advent |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type II, Class E & G |
Vector |
ANSI Z89.1-2003, Type II, Class E & G |
Bullard® Technical Bulletins (PDF FORMAT)
The following bulletins are provided from Bullard and relate to hard hat/helmet issues:
Backwards
Wearing Head Protection Backwards (PDF format, 11 Kb)
Outside Objects
Objects Inside Hard Hats (PDF format, 9 Kb)
Painting
Painting Fire Helmets (PDF format, 8 Kb)
Attaching Stickers
Attaching Stickers on Hard Hats (PDF format, 68 Kb)
Safety Glass Guidelines
- Use ANSI Z87.1 certified industrial eye protection with Z87 on the frames/lens.
- Wear safety glasses with side protection at the minimum!
- Most workers should wear goggles.
- Hybrid eye safety products with the comfort of glasses, the enclosure of goggles, and better breathability should be considered.
- Add a face shield over glasses or goggles for greater protection.
- The best general protection is a full-face respirator.
- Welders should use a welding helmet or goggles with the appropriate lens shade.
- Welder's helpers, other workers, and bystanders must have welding light protection when near torch cutting or welding.
Eye Hazards for Emergency Response and Disaster Recovery
- Common hazards
- Dust, concrete, and metal particles.
- Falling or shifting debris, building materials, glass.
- Smoke, noxious/poisonous gases.
- Chemicals (acids, bases, fuels, solvents, lime, wet or dry cement powder).
- Welding light and electrical arc.
- Thermal hazards and fires.
- Bloodborne pathogens (hepatitis or HIV) from blood, body fluids, human remains.
- Common injuries
- Corneal abrasions and conjunctivitis (red eyes).
- Concrete or metal particles or slivers embedded in the eye.
- Chemical splash or burn.
- Welder's flashburn.
- Eyeball laceration.
- Facial contusion and black eye.
- Bloodborne pathogen exposure from blood or other body fluids or human remains.
4 Points to Eye Safety
- Common hazards
- Have a safe work environment.
- Minimize hazards from falling or unstable debris.
- Make sure that tools work and safety features (machine guards) are in place.
- Ensure that workers, particularly volunteers, know how to use tools properly.
- Keep bystanders out of the hazard area.
- Evaluate your safety hazards
- Know your primary hazards.
- Recognize hazards from nearby workers, large machinery, and falling/shifting debris.
- Wear the proper eye and face protection
- Select the Z87 eye protection for the hazard.
- Make sure the eye protection is in good condition.
- Make sure it fits properly and will stay in place.
- Eye/face protection devices should not be relied upon to provide complete protection.
- Prepare for eye injuries and first aid needs
- Have an eyewash or sterile solutions on hand.
Use certified eye protection.
Look for the "Z87" mark on the lens or frames.
- Safety Glasses-minimum required
- Use safety glasses for general working conditions where there may be minor dust, chips, or flying particles.
- Use safety glasses with side protection such as side shields or wrap-around style.
- Use safety glasses treated for anti-fog.
- Use an eyewear retainer to keep the glasses tight to the face or hanging from the neck if not in use.
- Goggles-better protection
- Use goggles for higher impact protection, greater dust, chemical splash, and welding light protection.
- Goggles for splash or fine dust protection should have indirect venting. Use direct vented goggles for less fogging when working with large particles.
- Safety goggles designed after ski type goggles with high air flow minimize fogging while providing better particle and splash protection.
- Hybrid safety glasses/goggles-better protection
- Safety glasses with foam or rubber around lens provide better protection from dust and flying particles than conventional safety glasses with only side shields.
- Wrap-around safety glasses that convert to goggles with a soft plastic/rubber face seal may offer better peripheral vision than conventional goggles.
For greater impact and face protection use a shield over safety glasses/goggles
- Face Shields-Additional protection
- Use face shields for highest impact, full face protection for spraying, chipping, grinding, and critical chemical or bloodborne hazards.
- Face shields may be tinted or metal coated for heat and splatter protection.
- The curve of the face shield will direct particles or chemicals coming from the side into the eyes. Always wear safety glasses or goggles under a face shield.
Eye Safety for Prescription Lens Wearers
Use polycarbonate or Trivex® lenses for the best
impact protection in prescription safety glasses.
Prescription Safety Glasses
- Workers who wear prescription glasses should wear tightfitting goggles over normal streetwear glasses or contact lenses.
- Goggles should also be worn over prescription safety glasses in high dust environments. If worn alone, prescription safety glasses must have side shields.
- Prescription safety lenses with tempered glass or acrylic plastic lenses are not suitable for high impact. These types of safety glasses should not be used when working in debris areas unless covered by goggles or face shield.
- Polycarbonate or Trivex® lenses should be used when working in high impact areas. New safety glasses with polycarbonate lenses should be hard-coated to reduce scratching.
- Contact lenses may present a significant corneal abrasion risk when working in dusty areas unless tightfitting goggles or a full-face respirator are worn.
- Full-face respirators will not seal properly over streetwear glasses or safety glasses. Prescription inserts compatible with a respirator should be used. Respirators should be professionally fitted.
Use ANSI Z87.1 Certified
Safety Eye Protection
Look for the Z87 mark
on the frame or lens |
Caution - Brush, shake, or vacuum dust and debris from hardhats, hair, forehead, or the top of the eye protection before removing protection. Beware of rubbing eyes with dirty hands or clothing. Clean eyewear regularly.
First Aid for Eye Injuries
- Specks in the Eye
- Do not rub the eye.
- Use an eye wash, flush eye copiously.
- See a doctor if speck does not wash out, pain or redness continues.
- Cuts, Punctures, Objects Stuck in the Eye
- Do not wash out the eye.
- Do not try to remove an object stuck in the eye.
- Stabilize eye with a rigid shield without pressure such as with the bottom half of a paper cup.
- See a doctor at once.
- Chemical Burns
- Immediately flush eye with water or any drinkable liquid. Open the eye as wide as possible. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes. For caustic or basic solutions continue flushing while in route to doctor.
- If a contact lens is in the eye, begin flushing over the lens immediately. Flushing may dislodge the lens.
- See a doctor at once.
- Blows to the Eye
- Apply cold compress without pressure.
- Crushed ice in a plastic bag can be taped to the forehead to rest gently on the injured eye.
- See a doctor at once in cases of continued pain, reduced vision, blood in eye or discoloration which can mean internal eye damage.
Polarized Lenses
Blocks out harmful uv rays while allowing specific unharmful lights in for great visibility (used primarily for fishing). Most safety glasses are not polarized, however, they are 99.9% UV protected. |
Uv A Rays
May produce severe reactions to all layers of the cornea. All safety glasses are 99.9% UV A protected. |
Uv B Rays
May cause permanent cataracts. All safety glasses are 99.9% UV B protected. |
Uv C Rays
May produce photokeratitis.(welder's flash). Only specialized safety glasses meet UV C standards. |
Lens Coatings
Protect from scratches, fogging, breakage and uv rays, depending on the coating applied. |
Polycarbonate Lenses
Tough, transparent lenses with high impact strength. All selections of safety glasses have polycarbonate lenses. |
Wrap Around Lenses
Lenses wrap around to provide more protection than normal safety lenses. The wrap around safety glasses are OSHA approved even though they don't have side shields. |
Side Shields
Shields attached to the side of safety glasses for added eye protection.
More Information |
Z87.1 Standards
Safety standards that all safety glasses must conform to for impact resistant lenses and frames. |
Uv Protection
Protection against the harmful uv rays. All glasses are UVA and UVB protected. |
CSA
Canadian Standards Association-Responsible for certifying manufacturers products or services to their published requirements. |
Adjustable Temples
Temples adjust for comfort and tight fit for the person wearing them. |
Ratchet Temples
Temples adjust for comfort and tight fit for the person wearing them. |
Impact Resistant Lenses
Hard, treated lenses that meet or exceed safety standards for impact resistance against debris and breakage. |
Vermilion Lens
Vermillion lenses reduce glare, amplify light, block blue light, and are especially great for glass cutting and sheet metal work. These are the rose color safety glasses. |
Amber Lens
Amber lenses reduce glare and amplify light. They are great for low light environments. The amber glasses are synonymous with the yellow lens. |
Welding Lens
Welding lenses come in two shades, 3.0 and the 5.0. They are the darkest of safety shades and work well for light gas and arc welding. |
Clear Lens
Clear lenses are a general purpose lens that provide maximum protection and visibility. |
Fog-Free Lenses
These are great for humid environments or unstable climates. They are also good for moving from one extreme to another. |
Mirrored Lenses
Mirrored lenses reduce eyestrain outdoors and in sunny environments while protecting the eyes. Mirrored glasses are just as dark as the smoke lenses, they just have a different appearance when on the outside looking in. |
Smoke Lenses
Smoke lenses greatly reduce eyestrain in sunny environments but also allow visibility in dark environments. The smoke lenses are similar to a sunglass lens as far as appearance. |
Sunglasses
Sunglasses provide protection from harmful light rays; however, they are not impact resistant like a safety glass. |
Safety Glasses
Protect the eyes from flying debris, chemicals and harmful lights. All safety glasses must conform to Z87.1 standards, and should have a small (Z87.1) mark on the lens or the frame. |
Prescription Safety Glasses
Protect the eyes from flying debris, chemicals, and harmful UV rays but have prescription lenses or prescription inserts. Our prescription glasses are on page 11 of the glasses.
More Information |
Espresso Lens
Greatly reduce eyestrain in sunny environments but also allows visibility in dark environments. The espresso lens is brown tinted lens, very similar to the smoke lens. Most Uvex glasses use the espresso lens; however, the web-site describes the lens as a smoke to avoid confusion.
More Information |
Copper Blue Blocker Lens
Provide ultraviolet protection, filters in select blue wave to help vision. Great for haze and fog situations. The lens looks brownish and shaded; however, it intensifies the outdoor light much like the amber and vermilion lens.
More Information |
Uvex
A name brand manufacturer of safety glasses. Most Uvex products are made in the U.S.
More Information |
Clip On Side Shields
Shields that attach to the sides of glasses that do not have side protection. Most clip on side shields do not make the prescription glass Osha compliant; however, the B52 series on the safety glass section can make a prescription lens a safety glass. The lens itself must be a polycarbonate impact resistant lens in order to pass.
More Information |
Chemical Splash Goggles
Goggles that provide protection from chemicals, acids, or paint. They provide a tighter fit than safety glasses for maximum protection.
More Information |
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