Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for protecting employees from workplace hazards and infections. However, to be effective, PPE must be properly donned, doffed, and maintained. Providing comprehensive training to employees is crucial for ensuring correct PPE practices and usage.
Donning PPE
Donning, or putting on PPE, is the first critical step. Employees should receive training on:
- Proper hand hygiene – Thorough hand washing or sanitising should precede donning to prevent contaminating the PPE.
- Inspection – Visually inspect all PPE prior to use to check for defects or damage. Damaged PPE should not be worn.
- Order of donning – PPE should be donned in the proper sequence to prevent cross-contamination. For example, gown or coveralls first, then mask/respirator, then face shield or goggles, then gloves.
- Proper fit – PPE must fit correctly to provide full protection. Masks/respirators should seal tightly to the face. Gloves should fit snugly without constricting.
- Securing fasteners – Secure all ties, ear loops, and other closures to prevent loose fit and potential PPE failure.
- Buddy system – Have a colleague visually inspect to ensure PPE is donned correctly.
Training should be provided as part of the on-boarding process for new employees, with refresher courses when new equipment is provided.
Doffing PPE
Removing or doffing PPE properly is equally important to prevent self-contamination:
- Sequence of removal – Remove PPE in the reverse order it was donned: gloves, gown, mask/respirator, face shield. Prevent touching contaminated surfaces.
- Containment – Take care not to scatter contaminants when removing PPE. Place in designated waste bins.
- Hand hygiene – Wash hands immediately after removing all PPE. This is essential for preventing the spread of contamination.
- Avoid self-contamination – Use caution when removing masks and eye protection to not touch eyes, nose or mouth before hand washing.
PPE Maintenance
Improper maintenance can reduce PPE effectiveness. If PPE isn’t maintained, wear and tear might be missed, which would negate the usefulness of the item. Employees should learn:
- Inspection – Routinely inspect PPE for damage between uses and prior to donning.
- Cleaning – Follow manufacturer guidance on proper disinfecting and cleaning methods between uses.
- Storage – Store PPE to prevent damage, contamination, and distortion. Do not store with personal clothing.
- Expiration dates – Check expiration dates prior to use and remove expired PPE from circulation.
- Reporting – Report any defective, damaged or expired PPE to supervisors so it can be repaired or replaced.
Legal Requirements For PPE Training
Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, employers have several legal duties regarding PPE:
- Conduct a risk assessment to identify hazards requiring PPE use.
- Provide suitable PPE and replacements free of charge.
- Ensure PPE is properly fitted to each employee.
- Provide necessary information, instruction, and training on the PPE issued.
- Ensure PPE is used correctly by employees.
By providing comprehensive training on proper donning, doffing, and maintenance of PPE, employers empower staff to use this critical equipment effectively and safely. Regular skills audits and refresher training help reinforce correct behaviours and protect employee health. A well-educated workforce is a protected one.
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