Know the occupational risks
The choice of EPI depends on the occupational risks to which workers are exposed. Before choosing the appropriate PPE, it is essential to conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and protective measures necessary. This evaluation should be carried out regularly to ensure that the PPE chosen is still appropriate to the risks present in the workplace.
Understanding standards and certifications
PPE must meet certain standards and certifications to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Standards and certifications vary depending on the type of PPE. For example, protective eyewear must meet standards IN 166 and ANSI Z87.1. Safety helmets must comply with EN 397 and ANSI Z89.1 standards. Protective gloves must meet standards EN 420 and EN 388.
It is important to understand these standards and certifications to ensure that the PPE chosen is compliant and of high quality.
Choosing the right size and fit
PPE needs to be comfortable and well-adjusted to provide effective protection. It is important to choose the right size and to ensure that the EPI are well-adjusted. Incorrectly adjusted PPE may not provide the necessary protection and may even cause injuries.
Consider working conditions
Working conditions can also influence the choice of EPI. For example, workers who work outside in extreme weather conditions will need appropriate protective clothing. Workers who work in noisy environments will need hearing protection. Workers who work in dusty environments will need respirators.
It is important to consider working conditions to ensure that the PPE chosen is adapted to the specific conditions.
Taking worker preferences into account
Workers need to be involved in The choice of PPE to ensure that they are comfortable and adapted to their needs. Workers may have preferences for certain types of PPE, which can help improve their use and effectiveness.
Evaluating the effectiveness of PPE
It is important to assess regularly the effectiveness of PPE to ensure that they always offer adequate protection. PPE can deteriorate over time or due to exposure to chemical substances or extreme temperatures. PPE should be inspected regularly for signs of wear and tear. If PPE is damaged, it should be replaced immediately.
Provide adequate training
Workers need to be trained to the use of PPE to ensure that they are used properly and effectively. Training should include information on choosing appropriate PPE, adjustment, maintenance, and inspection. Workers should also be trained on how to detect signs of wear and tear on PPE.
Ensure regular monitoring
The choice of PPE should not be a one-time event. It is important to regularly monitor the use of PPE and to conduct periodic reviews of the risk assessment. PPE should be adapted according to changes in working conditions or new standards and certifications.
In summary, choosing PPE is a complex process that requires a thorough risk assessment, understanding standards and certifications, taking into account the working conditions and preferences of workers, regular evaluation of the effectiveness of PPE, adequate training and regular monitoring. Workers need to be involved in this process to ensure the efficient and comfortable use of PPE.
It is important to remember that PPE is only one protection measure among many others. It is also essential to put in place risk prevention measures to reduce the need to use PPE. PPE should not be considered as a replacement for risk prevention, but rather as a complementary measure to ensure the safety of workers.
The digitization of your security system
Dyo, our application, is designed in accordance with ISO standards to improve the management of your security systems and facilitate the monitoring of your goals and indicators. It centralizes and organizes all your feedback in a single solution, eliminating superfluous files and tools. Thanks to Dyo, optimize your security management and declare your SSE events and SSE visits via the mobile application, even without an internet connection.
This collaborative tool simplifies your safety procedures, meets the regulatory requirements for the health and safety of your employees, and ensures easy access to documents and information for more efficient work. With Dyo, manage and optimize your HSE processes on an online solution and a mobile application to provide a better working environment for your employees and contribute to reducing workplace accidents and occupational diseases in your company.
