How to choose the right PPE

How To Choose The Right PPE

PPE Selection & Hazard Assessment

Workers in the marine and oil & gas industries perform many high-risk tasks that involve exposure to multiple hazards. In some cases, these high-risk tasks are also performed under extreme weather conditions and in remote locations. Ensuring that all workers are provided with suitable PPE equipment, such as eye protection, hearing protection, hand and foot protection, as well flame-resistant clothing is required by OSHA standards to keep workers safe. A broad range of personal protective equipment (PPE) solutions are needed to address the multiple hazards workers face, including garments for flash fire hazards; protection against fine particle hazards and low-level liquid splashes; protection against concentrated chemicals under pressure; and gloves for cut and multi-hazard protection.

With so many different manufacturers offering PPE solutions, identifying and sourcing the most appropriate PPE can be very painstaking and time consuming for the HSE Managers.

Selection of Appropriate PPE

Ensuring the safety of workers in the marine & offshore industry involves selecting and providing the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). This process is crucial, directly impacting employees’ well-being and preventing workplace accidents. Here are vital considerations when selecting appropriate PPE:

1. Risk Assessment

Before any work begins, a thorough risk assessment should be conducted. This involves identifying potential hazards, evaluating their severity, and offering hazard recognition training to the workers. By understanding the specific risks associated with a task or work environment, employers can determine the types of PPE needed to mitigate these risks effectively. For example, workers handling hazardous chemicals will require different PPE, such as chemical-resistant suits and gloves, compared to those working with heavy machinery, who might need steel-toed boots and hard hats

2. Compliance with Regulations

Compliance with safety regulations and industry standards in non-negotiable in the marine and oil & gas sector. Employers must ensure the selected PPE aligns with local, and international safety regulations and standards. It is also essential to mandate the workers to complete accident investigation training so they can report the incident effectively. Adhering to these guidelines not only guarantees the safety of workers but also helps organizations avoid legal and financial repercussions associated with non compliance.

3. Comfort and Fit

PPE should protect and be comfortable to wear for extended periods. Ill-fitting or uncomfortable equipment can reduce productivity, worker non-compliance, and safety risks. Employers should provide adjustable PPE in various sizes to ensure a proper fit for each worker. Comfortable PPE encourages regular use and promotes an overall safety culture.

4. Maintenance & Inspection

PPE is only adequate if it is in good working condition. Regular maintenance and inspection are essential to identify damage, wear, or defects. Defective PPE should be promptly repaired or replaced to protect workers adequately. An organization’s safety program should include maintenance schedules and inspection checklists. The selection of appropriate PPE requires a comprehensive understanding of job-specific risks, compliance with regulations, consideration of comfort and fit, and a commitment to ongoing maintenance and inspection.

Conclusion

In the marine and oil & gas industries, where risks are part of the job, safeguarding the workforce through training and education is not just a responsibility but a necessity. Considering the innate physical threats associated with the regular operation of the oil and gas sector – it is essential to understand the function of each PPE and highlight this necessity to the workers. Proper training and understanding of the PPE is essential to survive the regular tasks of the Oil and Gas industry.

As safety should be the prime concern of the industry, it can benefit from online safety training and safety engagement ideas to provide a safe workplace environment to the employees.

Do you need a reliable partner for your safety needs?

With over 15 years of relentless commitment to excellence, NICO Marine has established itself as a reliable supplier of quality products to the marine and offshore oil & gas industries worldwide. Our HSE professionals have years of experience in workplace safety and will be happy to assist you in making the right decision.

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