| HOME | INDEX | SEARCH | PUBLICATIONS |
The Act covers more than 90 million employees throughout the United
States. This landmark legislation, the first national safety and health
law, establishes standards requiring employers to provide their workers
with workplaces free from recognized hazards that could cause serious
injury or death. It also requires the employees to abide by all safety and
health standards that apply to their jobs.
Although the aim of this booklet is to assist in providing a safe and
healthful workplace, the scope is restricted to preventing employee
exposure to unsafe equipment and situations. Words such as "must,"
"shall," "required," and "necessary" indicate requirements under the OSHA
standards. Procedures indicated by "should," "may," "suggested," and
"recommended" constitute generally accepted good practices.
Much of the personal protective equipment (PPE) information in this
booklet is framed in general terms and is intended to complement relevant
regulations and manufacturers' requirements. For more specific
information, refer to the OSHA standards collected in Title 29, Code of
Federal Regulations (CFR), Parts 1900-1999. In some instances, the
standards or this booklet refer to specifications by the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI), 11 West 42nd St., New York, NY 10036, and the
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916 Race Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19103. Employers are encouraged to use the most recent
ANSI consensus standards and resolutions to provide protection equal to or
greater than Federal OSHA regulations.
Information in this booklet also reflects OSHA's latest revisions to
PPE standards (1910.132 through 1910.138) as published in the Federal
Register Vol. 59, No. 66, pp. 16334-16364, April 6, 1994. The final rule
also contains nonmandatory guidelines for a hazard assessment and a chart
identifying the appropriate personal protective equipment for particular
hazards.
Personal protective equipment should not be used as a substitute for
engineering, work practice, and/or administrative controls. Personal
protective equipment should be used in conjunction with these controls to
provide for employee safety and health in the workplace. Personal
protective equipment includes all clothing and other work accessories
designed to create a barrier against workplace hazards. The basic element
of any management program for personal protective equipment should be an
in-depth evaluation of the equipment needed to protect against the hazards
at the workplace. Management dedicated to the safety and health of
employees should use that evaluation to set a standard operating procedure
for personnel, then train employees on the protective limitations of
personal protective equipment, and on its proper use and maintenance.
Using personal protective equipment requires hazard awareness and
training on the part of the user. Employees must be aware that the
equipment does not eliminate the hazard. If the equipment fails, exposure
will occur. To reduce the possibility of failure, equipment must be
properly fitted and maintained in a clean and serviceable condition.
Selection of the proper personal protective equipment for a job is
important. Employers and employees must understand the equipment's purpose
and its limitations. The equipment must not be altered or removed even
though an employee may find it uncomfortable. (Sometimes equipment may be
uncomfortable simply because it does not fit properly.)
This booklet discusses those types of equipment most commonly used for
protection of the head, including eyes and ears and the torso, arms,
hands, and feet. The use of equipment to protect against life-threatening
hazards also is discussed. Information on respiratory protective equipment
may be found in Title 29, CFR, Part 1910.134. The standard should be
consulted for information on specialized equipment such as that used by
firefighters.
Employers must certify in writing that a workplace hazard assessment
has been performed. Defective or damaged personal protective equipment
shall not be used.
Employers are required to certify in writing that training has been
carried out and that employees understand it. Each written certification
shall contain the name of each employee trained, the date(s) of training,
and identify the subject of the certification.
The survey showed that in most instances where head injuries occurred
employers had not required their employees to wear head protection. Of
those workers wearing hard hats, all but 5 percent indicated that they
were required by their employers to wear them [1, p. 2]. It was found that
the vast majority of those who wore hard hats all or most of the time at
work believed that hard hats were practical for their jobs. According to
the report, in almost half of the accidents involving head injuries,
employees knew of no actions taken by employers to prevent such injuries
from recurring.
The BLS survey noted that more than one-half of the workers were struck
on the head while they were looking down and almost three-tenths were
looking straight ahead. While a third of the unprotected workers were
injured when bumping into stationary objects, such actions injured only
one-eighth of hard hat wearers [1, p.1]. Elimination or control of a
hazard that led to or might lead to an accident should, of course, be
given first consideration, but many accidents causing head injuries are of
a type difficult to anticipate and control. Where these conditions exist,
head protection must be provided to eliminate injury.
Head injuries are caused by falling or flying objects, or by bumping
the head against a fixed object. Head protection, in the form of
protective hats, must do two things resist penetration and absorb the
shock of a blow. This is accomplished by making the shell of the hat of a
material hard enough to resist the blow, and by utilizing a
shock-absorbing lining composed of headband and crown straps to keep the
shell away from the wearer's skull. Protective hats also are used to
protect against electrical shock.
The standards recognized by OSHA for protective hats purchased prior to
July 5, 1994, are contained in ANSI Requirements for Industrial Head
Protection, Z89. 1-1969, and ANSI Requirements for Industrial Protective
Helmets for Electrical Workers, Z89.2-1971. The standards for protective
helmets purchased after July 5, 1994, are contained in ANSI Personnel
Protection -- Protective Headwear for Industrial Workers-Requirements,
Z89.1-1986. These and later editions of these standards are available and
acceptable for use if they are as effective as the 1986 edition, and
should be consulted for details.
Protective hats are made in the following types and classes:
For industrial purposes, three classes are recognized:
For firefighters, head protection must consist of a protective head
device with ear flaps and a chin strap that meet the performance,
construction, and testing requirements stated in Title 29 CFR, 1910.156
(e)(5).
Hats and caps under Class A are intended for protection against impact
hazards. They are used in mining, construction, shipbuilding, tunneling,
lumbering, and manufacturing.
Class B utility service hats and caps protect the wearer's head from
impact and penetration by falling or flying objects and from high-voltage
shock and burn. They are used extensively by electrical workers.
The safety hat or cap in Class C is designed specifically for
lightweight comfort and impact protection. This class is usually
manufactured from aluminum and offers no dielectric protection. Class C
helmets are used in certain construction and manufacturing occupations,
oil fields, refineries, and chemical plants where there is no danger from
electrical hazards or corrosion. They also are used on occasions where
there is a possibility of bumping the head against a fixed object.
Materials used in helmets should be water-resistant and slow burning.
Each helmet consists essentially of a shell and suspension. Ventilation is
provided by a space between the headband and the shell. Each helmet should
be accompanied by instructions explaining the proper method of adjusting
and replacing the suspension and headband.
The wearer should be able to identify the type of helmet by looking
inside the shell for the manufacturer, ANSI designation and class. For
example:
Manufacturer's Name A common method of cleaning shells is dipping them for at least a
minute in hot water (approximately 140 F ) that contains a good detergent.
Shells should then be scrubbed and rinsed in clear hot water. After
rinsing, the shell should be carefully inspected for any signs of damage.
All components, shells, suspensions, headbands, sweatbands, and any
accessories should be visually inspected daily for signs of dents, cracks,
penetration, or any other damage that might reduce the degree of safety
originally provided.
Users are cautioned that if unusual conditions occur (such as higher or
lower extreme temperatures than described in the standards), or if there
are signs of abuse or mutilation of the helmet or any component, the
margin of safety may be reduced. If damage is suspected, helmets should be
replaced or representative samples tested in accordance with procedures
contained in ANSI Z89.1-1986. This booklet references national consensus
standards, for example, ANSI standards, that were adopted into OSHA
regulations. Employers are encouraged to use up-to-date national consensus
standards that provide employee protection equal to or greater than that
provided by OSHA standards.
Helmets should not be stored or carried on the rear-window shelf of an
automobile, since sunlight and extreme heat may adversely affect the
degree of protection.
The BLS study found that about 60 percent of workers who suffered eye
injuries were not wearing eye protective equipment [2, p.12]. When asked
why they were not wearing face protection at the time of the accident,
workers indicated that face protection was not normally used or practiced
in their type of work, or it was not required for the type of work
performed at the time of the accident [2, p. 2; 3, p. 12].
Suitable eye protectors must be provided where there is a potential for
injury to the eyes or face from flying particles, molten metal, liquid
chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapors, potentially
injurious light radiation or a combination of these. Protectors must meet
the following minimum requirements:
Every protector shall be distinctly marked to facilitate identification
of the manufacturer.
Each affected employee shall use equipment with filter lenses that have
a shade number appropriate for the work being performed for protection
from injurious light radiation. The following is a listing of appropriate
shade numbers for various operations.
The survey noted that the typical injury was caused by flying or
falling blunt metal objects. Lacerations, fractures, broken teeth, and
contusions were common types of injuries reported.
Persons who use corrective spectacles and those who are required by
OSHA to wear eye protection must wear face shields, goggles, or spectacles
of one of the following types:
When limitations or precautions are indicated by the manufacturer, they
should be communicated to the user and strictly observed.
Over the years, many types and styles of eye and face-and-eye
protective equipment have been developed to meet the demands for
protection against a variety of hazards.
Goggles come in a number of different styles: eyecups, flexible or
cushioned goggles, plastic eyeshield goggles, and foundrymen's goggles.
Goggles are manufactured in several styles for specific uses such as
protecting against dusts and splashes, and in chipper's, welder's, and
cutter's models.
Safety spectacles require special frames. Combinations of normal
streetwear frames with safety lenses are not in compliance.
Many hard hats and nonrigid helmets are designed with face and eye
protective equipment.
Design, construction, tests, and use of eye and face protection
purchased prior to July 5, 1994, must be in accordance with ANSI
Z87.1-1968 USA Standard Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and
Face Protection. Protective eye and face devices purchased after July 5,
1994, must comply with ANSI Z87.1-1989, American National Standard
Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection.
Pitted lenses, like dirty lenses, can be a source of reduced vision.
They should be replaced. Deeply scratched or excessively pitted lenses are
apt to break more readily.
Slack, worn-out, sweat-soaked, or twisted headbands do not hold the eye
protector in proper position. Visual inspection can determine when the
headband elasticity is reduced to a point below proper function.
Goggles should be kept in a case when not in use. Spectacles, in
particular, should be given the same care as one's own glasses, since the
frame, nose pads, and temples can be damaged by rough usage.
Personal protective equipment that has been previously used should be
disinfected before being issued to another employee.
Also, when each employee is assigned protective equipment for extended
periods, it is recommended that such equipment be cleaned and disinfected
regularly.
Several methods for disinfecting eye-protective equipment are
acceptable. The most effective method is to disassemble the goggles or
spectacles and thoroughly clean all parts with soap and warm water.
Carefully rinse all traces of soap, and replace defective parts with new
ones. Swab thoroughly or completely and immerse all parts for 10 minutes
in a solution of germicidal deodorant fungicide. Remove parts from
solution and suspend in a clean place for air drying at room temperature
or with heated air. Do not rinse after removing parts from the solution
because this will remove the germicidal residue which retains its
effectiveness after drying.
The dry parts or items should be placed in a clean, dust-proof
container, such as a box, bag, or plastic envelope, to protect them until
reissue.
Preformed or molded earplugs should be individually fitted by a
professional. Waxed cotton, foam, or fiberglass wool earplugs are
self-forming. When properly inserted, they work as well as most molded
earplugs.
Some earplugs are disposable, to be used one time and then thrown away.
The non-disposable type should be cleaned after each use for proper
protection. Plain cotton is ineffective as protection against hazardous
noise.
Earmuffs need to make a perfect seal around the ear to be effective.
Glasses, long sideburns, long hair, and facial movements, such as chewing,
can reduce protection. Special equipment is available for use with glasses
or beards.
For more specific information on a hearing conservation program see
Title 29 CFR 1910.95 - Occupational Noise Exposure.
Respirators shall be used in the following circumstances:
Duck, a closely woven cotton fabric, is good for light-duty protective
clothing. It can protect against cuts and bruises on jobs where employees
handle heavy, sharp, or rough material.
Heat-resistant material, such as leather, is often used in protective
clothing to guard against dry heat and flame. Rubber and rubberized
fabrics, neoprene, and plastics give protection against some acids and
chemicals.
It is important to refer to the manufacturers' selection guides for the
effectiveness of specific materials against specific chemicals.
Disposable suits of plasticlike or other similar synthetic material are
particularly important for protection from dusty materials or materials
that can splash. If the substance is extremely toxic, a completely
enclosed chemical suit may be necessary. The clothing should be inspected
to ensure proper fit and function for continued protection.
There is a wide assortment of gloves, hand pads, sleeves, and wristlets
for protection against various hazardous situations.
Employers need to determine what hand protection their employees need.
The work activities of the employees should be studied to determine the
degree of dexterity required, the duration, frequency, and degree of
exposure to hazards and the physical stresses that will be applied.
Also, it is important to know the performance characteristics of gloves
relative to the specific hazard anticipated; e.g., exposure to chemicals,
heat, or flames. Gloves' performance characteristics should be assessed by
using standard test procedures.
Before purchasing gloves, the employer should request documentation
from the manufacturer that the gloves meet the appropriate test
standard(s) for the hazard(s) anticipated.
The protective device should be selected to fit the job. Employees may
need to use gloves--such as wire mesh, leather, and canvas--that have been
tested and provide insulation from burns and cuts. The employee should
become acquainted with the limitations of the clothing used.
Certain occupations require special protection. For example,
electricians need special protection from shocks and burns. Rubber is
considered the best material for insulating gloves and sleeves from these
hazards. Rubber protective equipment for electrical workers must conform
to the requirements established in ANSI as specified in the following
list:
For protection of feet and legs from falling or rolling objects, sharp
objects, molten metal, hot surfaces, and wet slippery surfaces workers
should use appropriate footguards, safety shoes, or boots and leggings.
Leggings protect the lower leg and feet from molten metal or welding
sparks. Safety snaps permit their rapid removal.
Aluminum alloy, fiberglass, or galvanized steel footguards can be worn
over usual work shoes, although they may present the possibility of
catching on something and causing workers to trip. Heat-resistant soled
shoes protect against hot surfaces like those found in the roofing,
paving, and hot metal industries.
Safety shoes should be sturdy and have an impact-resistant toe. In some
shoes, metal insoles protect against puncture wounds. Additional
protection, such as metatarsal guards, may be found in some types of
footwear. Safety shoes come in a variety of styles and materials, such as
leather and rubber boots and oxfords.
Safety footwear is classified according to its ability to meet minimum
requirements for both compression and impact tests. These requirements and
testing procedures may be found in American National Standards Institute
standards. Protective footwear purchased prior to July 5, 1994, must
comply with ANSI Z41.1-1967, USA Standard for Men's Safety-Toe Footwear.
Protective footwear purchased after July 5, 1994, must comply with ANSI
Z41-1991, American National Standard for Personal Protection-Protective
Footwear.
Night workers and flagmen who might be struck by moving vehicles need
suits or vests designed to reflect light.
OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.132 through .138 establishes the employer's
obligation to provide personal protective equipment to employees as
follows:
"Protective equipment, including personal protective equipment for
eyes, face, head and extremities, protective clothing, respiratory devices
and protective shields and barriers, shall be provided, used and
maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition wherever it is necessary
by reasons of hazards of processes or environment, chemical hazards,
radiological hazards or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner
capable of causing injury or impairment in the function of any part of the
body through absorption, inhalation, or physical contact."
In order to accommodate work situations in which it is customary, as an
exception, for workers in a particular trade to provide their own personal
protective equipment, OSHA acknowledges that employees may provide their
own equipment, but does not specify that practice as the norm. Instead,
the agency underscores the employer's obligation to assure that such
equipment is adequate and that it is properly maintained.
Teaming the correct personal protective equipment with a good training
program can give the worker a large measure of safety where other controls
are inadequate or not feasible.
Personal protective equipment can be effective only if the equipment is
selected based on its intended use, employees are trained in its use, and
the equipment is properly tested, maintained, and worn.
In the final analysis, the best protection comes from an interested
management and work force committed to sound work practices.
Effective management of worker safety and health protection is a
decisive factor in reducing the extent and severity of work-related
injuries and illnesses and their related costs. To assist employers and
employees in developing effective safety and health programs, OSHA
published recommended Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines
(Federal Register 54(18): 3908-3916, January 26, 1988). These voluntary
guidelines apply to all places of employment covered by OSHA.
The guidelines identify four general elements that are critical to the
development of a successful safety and health management program:
The guidelines recommend specific actions, under each of these general
elements, to achieve an effective safety and health program. A single free
copy of the guidelines can be obtained from U.S. Department of Labor,
OSHA/OSHA Publications, P.O. Box 37535, Washington DC 20210 by sending a
self-addressed mail label with your request.
Personal Protective Equipment
OSHA 1995
Contents
Introduction
The goal of the Occupational Safety
and Health Act of 1970 is to ensure safe and healthful working conditions
for working men and women in the nation. This Act, which established the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the Department of
Labor, provides for research, information, education, and training in the
field of occupational safety and health and authorizes enforcement of OSHA
standards.
Hazard Assessment
Employers are required to assess
the workplace to determine if hazards that require the use of head, eye,
face, hand, or foot protection are present or are likely to be present. If
hazards or the likelihood of hazards are found, employers must select and
have affected employees use properly fitted personal protective equipment
suitable for protection from these hazards.
Training
Before doing work requiring use of
personal protective equipment, employees must be trained to know; when
personal protective equipment is necessary; what type is necessary: how it
is to be worn; and what its limitations are, as well as know its proper
care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal. In many cases more than one
type of personal protective equipment will provide adequate protection. In
those instances employees should be given a choice.
Head Protection
Prevention of head injuries is an
important factor in every safety program. A survey by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics (BLS) of accidents and injuries noted that most workers who
suffered impact injuries to the head were not wearing head protection [1,
p. 2]. The majority of workers were injured while performing their normal
jobs at their regular worksites.
Selection
Each type and class of head protector is
intended to provide protection against specific hazardous conditions. An
understanding of these conditions will help in selecting the right hat for
the particular situation.
ANSI Z89.1-1969 (or later year)
Class A
Fit
Headbands are adjustable in 1/8-size
increments. When the headband is adjusted to the right size, it provides
sufficient clearance between the shell and the headband. The removable or
replaceable type sweatband should cover at least the forehead portion of
the headband. The shell should be of one-piece seamless construction and
designed to resist the impact of a blow from falling material. The
internal cradle of the headband and sweatband forms the suspension. Any
part that comes into contact with the wearer's head must not be irritating
to normal skin.
Inspection and Maintenance
Manufacturers should be
consulted with regard to paint or cleaning materials for their helmets
because some paints and thinners may damage the shell and reduce
protection by physically weakening it or negating electrical resistance.
Eye and Face Protection
Eye and face protective
equipment is required by OSHA where there is a reasonable probability of
preventing injury when such equipment is used. Employers must provide a
type of protector suitable for work to be performed, and employees must
use the protectors. These stipulations also apply to supervisors and
management personnel, and should apply to visitors while they are in
hazardous areas.
Filter Lenses for Protection Against Radiant Energy
OPERATION ELECTRODE SIZE (1/32) AMPS MINIMUM PROTECTIVE*
Shielded Less than 3/32 Less than 60 7
metal arc 3/32-5/32 60-160 8
welding 5/32-8/32 160-250 10
More than 8/32 250-500 11
Gas metal Less than 60 7
arc welding 60-160 10
and flux 160-250 10
cored arc 250-500 10
welding
Gas tungsten Less than 50 8
arc welding 50-150 8
150-500 10
Air carbon Light Less than 500 10
arc cutting Heavy 500-1000 11
Plasma arc Less than 20 6
welding 20-100 8
100-400 10
400-800 11
Plasma arc Light** Less than 300 8
cutting Medium** 300-400 9
Heavy** 400-800 10
Torch 3
brazing
Torch 2
soldering
Carbon 14
arc welding
OPERATION INCHES MILLIMETERS MINIMUM PROTECTIVE*
SHADE
Gas welding:
Light Under 1/8 Under 3.2 4
Medium 1/8-1/2 3.2-150 5
Heavy Over 1/2 Over 12.7 6
Oxygen cutting:
Light Under 1 Under 25 3
Medium 1-6 25-50 4
Heavy Over 6 Over 150 5
* As a rule of thumb, start with a shade that is too dark to
see the weld zone (the darkest lens carries a value of 10).
Then go to a lighter shade which gives sufficient view of the
weld zone without going below the minimum. In oxyfuel gas
welding or cutting where the torch produces a high yellow
light, it is desirable to use a filter lens that absorbs the
yellow or sodium line in the visible light of the (spectrum)
operation.
** These values apply where the actual arc is clearly seen.
Experience has shown that lighter filters may be used when
the arc is hidden by the workpiece.
OSHA and the National Society to Prevent Blindness recommend that
emergency eyewashes be placed in all hazardous locations. First-aid
instructions should be posted close to potential danger spots since any
delay to immediate aid or an early mistake in dealing with an eye injury
can result in lasting damage.
Selection
Each eye, face, or face-and-eye protector
is designed for a particular hazard. In selecting the protector, consider
kind and degree of hazard, and select the protector accordingly. Where a
choice of protectors is given, and the degree of protection required is
not an important issue, worker comfort may be a deciding factor. The BLS
survey showed that few workers ever complained about poor vision or
discomfort with personal eye protection equipment.
Fit
Fitting of goggles and safety spectacles should
be done by someone skilled in the procedure. Prescription safety
spectacles should be fitted only by qualified optical personnel.
Inspection and Maintenance
It is essential that the
lenses of eye protectors be kept clean. Continuous vision through dirty
lenses can cause eye strain often an excuse for not wearing the eye
protectors. Daily inspection and cleaning of the eye protector with soap
and hot water, or with a cleaning solution and tissue, is recommended.
Ear Protection
Exposure to high noise levels can
cause hearing loss or impairment. It can create physical and psychological
stress. There is no cure for noise-induced hearing loss, so the prevention
of excessive noise exposure is the only way to avoid hearing damage.
Specifically designed protection is required, depending on the type of
noise encountered and the auditory condition of employee.
Respiratory Protection
Respirators shall be
provided by the employer when such equipment is necessary to protect the
health of the employee. The employer shall provide the respirators which
are applicable and suitable for the purposes intended.
Torso Protection
Many hazards can threaten the
torso: heat, splashes from hot metals and liquids, impacts, cuts, acids,
and radiation. A variety of protective clothing is available: vests,
jackets, aprons, coveralls, and full body suits.
Selection
Wool and specially treated cotton are two
natural fibers that are fire-resistant and comfortable since they adapt
well to changing workplace temperatures.
Arm and Hand Protection
Examples of injuries to
arms and hands are burns, cuts, electrical shock, amputation, and
absorption of chemicals.
ITEM STANDARD
Rubber insulating gloves ASTM D 120-87.
Rubber matting for use around
electrical apparatus ASTM D 178-88 or 178-93.
Rubber insulating blankets ASTM D 1048-93 or 1048-88A.
Rubber insulating hoods ASTM D 1048-88 or 1049-93.
Rubber insulating line hose ASTM D 1050-90.
Rubber insulating sleeves ASTM D 1051-87.
(See 29 CFR 1910.137, Federal Register 59 (20); 4436,
January 31, 1994)
Selection
A number of factors need to be taken
into account when choosing a glove for a particular application. In the
initial selection process the following are of primary importance:
Foot and Leg Protection
According to the BLS
survey, most of the workers in selected occupations who suffered foot
injuries were not wearing protective footwear. Furthermore, most of their
employers did not require them to wear safety shoes. The typical foot
injury was caused by objects falling fewer than 4 feet and the median
weight was about 65 pounds [4, p. 1]. Again, most workers were injured
while performing their normal job activities at their worksites.
Other Related Issues
A Coast Guard-approved life
jacket or buoyant work vest should be used if there is danger of falling
into water while working. For emergency rescue operations, boats and ring
buoys with at least 90 feet of line must be provided.
Cost Assumption
OSHA interprets its general
personal protective equipment standard, as well as specific standards, to
require employers to provide and to pay for personal protective equipment
required by the company for the worker to do his or her job safely and in
compliance with OSHA standards. Where equipment is personal in nature and
usable by workers off the job, the matter of payment may be left to
labor-management negotiations.
Conclusion
To have an effective safety program, one
manager must be responsible for its coordination. First-line supervisors
must be convinced of the hazard and must be held accountable for their
employees' use of personal protective equipment. A safety program for new
employees is a necessary part of any orientation program. An on-going
safety program should be used to motivate employees to continue to use
protective gear.
Other Sources of OSHA Assistance
Safety and Health
Management Program Guidelines
References
