Personal protective control, in essence, refers to the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as a last line of defense to protect workers from workplace hazards when other hazard controls are not feasible or fully effective.
PPE includes items like safety glasses, gloves, respirators, and hard hats, and its use aims to minimize exposure to hazards that can cause injury or illness. It's crucial to remember that PPE should be implemented only after exploring and implementing other hazard control methods higher up the hierarchy of controls.
Hierarchy of Controls
Before relying on PPE, employers are expected to implement controls in the following order, known as the hierarchy of controls:
- Elimination: Physically removing the hazard. This is the most effective control.
- Substitution: Replacing the hazard with a safer alternative.
- Engineering Controls: Isolating people from the hazard (e.g., machine guards, ventilation systems).
- Administrative Controls: Changing the way people work (e.g., safety procedures, training, work permits).
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Protecting the worker with equipment (e.g., gloves, eye protection, respirators).
Why PPE is Considered the "Last Line of Defense"
PPE is the least effective control because it relies on the worker consistently and correctly using the equipment. It doesn't eliminate the hazard, but rather attempts to shield the worker from its effects. Factors like improper fit, damage, or infrequent use can render PPE ineffective, resulting in exposure and potential harm.
Example:
Imagine a construction worker using a jackhammer.
- Elimination: Redesigning the construction project to avoid the need for jackhammering.
- Substitution: Using a quieter or less vibration-inducing tool.
- Engineering Controls: Implementing barriers or sound dampening to reduce noise exposure.
- Administrative Controls: Rotating workers to limit exposure time to vibrations and noise.
- PPE: Providing earplugs (hearing protection) and vibration-dampening gloves. In this scenario, PPE is used after other controls have been considered to further minimize risk.
Employer Responsibilities Regarding PPE
Employers have the following responsibilities when implementing PPE as a control measure:
- Hazard Assessment: Identify workplace hazards that require PPE.
- PPE Selection: Choose appropriate PPE that fits properly.
- Training: Provide training on proper use, maintenance, and limitations of PPE.
- Maintenance: Ensure PPE is properly maintained and replaced when necessary.
- Enforcement: Enforce the use of PPE in designated areas and situations.
- Payment: In many jurisdictions, employers are required to pay for the PPE.
In conclusion, personal protective control involves utilizing PPE as the last resort to protect workers from hazards, emphasizing that it should only be employed after exploring and implementing more effective hazard control methods.
