4 Questions You Need to Ask Yourself About Your PPE
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is something almost all of us at GIW Industries Inc. use every day. In fact, it’s so commonplace you probably never think about it — it’s so easy to just slip on your gloves or put your safety glasses on and get to work.
While these habits are helpful, we want to encourage everyone at GIW to stop and think about their PPE: its necessity, its function, and its condition. After all, when we use PPE properly and apply it correctly, it can prevent injuries and save lives.
That’s why the Operational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets standards for PPE across a variety of industries, including ours. At GIW, we do everything possible to meet and exceed these safety standards by assessing our workplace hazards, providing the appropriate PPE, and training our team on when and how to use the necessary protective equipment.
“New employees need to be trained and observed to be sure they are wearing the correct PPE and wearing it correctly,” Scott Sleister in GIW Shipping and Receiving said. “The main goal is that everyone goes home at the end of the day without being hurt. By watching out for ourselves and others, we can insure that that can happen.”
That means the bulk of the responsibility is on your shoulders. Take a few minutes to review this list and ensure you’re applying what you’ve learned and using the correct PPE.
- Are you using the right PPE for your job? A hard hat can protect you from a head injury, but it won’t help prevent hearing loss. Make sure you know all the possible hazards of your role, and select PPE that covers each one. For example, if you’re moving heavy equipment, gloves may be necessary for protecting your hands; those who use power tools will likely add earplugs and safety goggles to their PPE mixes; and others who deal with harmful fumes or smoke may require respirators and coveralls. Knowing exactly what you need to do your specific job safely is key.
- Are you using it correctly every time? It may seem like a waste of time to put on a bunch of safety gear to accomplish a small or quick task; however, it only takes a second to expose yourself and others to potentially life-altering accidents or injuries. Never misuse your PPE — or skip it altogether — even if you’re in a hurry.
- Is your PPE well-maintained? A broken face shield is almost as bad as none at all! Be sure to properly maintain and clean all PPE after every use. You should also inspect your PPE daily for wear and tear and replace it immediately if it’s damaged.
- Are your co-workers covered? At GIW, safety is everyone’s business. Be willing to answer questions and help new employees who are just getting used to using their PPE — and tenured employees should be open to reminders and new safety rules as expectations and conditions change. By watching out for each other, we can ensure everyone makes it home safely at the end of the day.
“Safety is very important at GIW Industries. Wearing the appropriate PPE is very important in preventing injuries to others and yourself. Make sure you wear the appropriate PPE for the job you are doing and also look out for your fellow employees by making sure they are wearing their PPE,” Sleister said.
Whether you work with electrical, mechanical, chemical, or other hazards at GIW, we have the equipment and strategies in place to keep you safe. It’s up to you to make sure you’re using the appropriate PPE and safety procedures for your position!
