Based on the provided reference, you must use face protection specifically when potential exists for contamination of mucous membranes.
Understanding the Requirement
The core requirement for wearing face protection, as outlined in the reference, is tied directly to the potential for exposure that could affect your mucous membranes.
- What are Mucous Membranes? These are moist tissues that line various cavities in the body and cover the surface of internal organs. Key mucous membranes relevant to face protection include those of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- What is Contamination? Contamination refers to the presence of unwanted substances (like pathogens, chemicals, or debris) in an area where they shouldn't be.
Therefore, face protection is mandatory in situations where there is a risk that harmful substances could splash, spray, or otherwise come into contact with the eyes, inside of the nose, or inside of the mouth.
Acceptable Forms of Face Protection
The reference specifies two primary ways to achieve adequate protection for the eyes, nose, and mouth:
- Option 1: Eye protection that includes side shields combined with a face mask.
- Option 2: A chin-length face shield used alone.
Here's a simple overview:
| Protection Method | Components | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Method 1 | Eye Protection (with side shields) + Face Mask | Requires two separate items |
| Method 2 | Chin-Length Face Shield | Provides combined coverage in one item |
Both methods are considered acceptable for meeting the requirement of protecting mucous membranes when potential contamination exists.
Practical Examples
While the reference doesn't list specific scenarios, the requirement implies that face protection is needed in activities such as:
- Working with splashing liquids (e.g., certain chemicals, biological fluids).
- Procedures that generate aerosols or sprays.
- Environments with airborne particles that could irritate or contaminate mucous membranes.
In any situation where there is a foreseeable risk of material contacting the eyes, nose, or mouth, face protection, in one of the prescribed forms, must be used.
