Hazards exist on every job site. In fact, OSHA recorded over 3.5 million injuries in 2008 alone. Businesses need to incorporate the right industrial apparel in conjunction with safe working practices in order to have an injury-free work environment. Industrial equipment and clothing are designed to mitigate hazards, prevent accidents, and reduce the severity of any injuries that may occur. Having a personal protective equipment program in place is essential for every company.
The best methodology for addressing hazards follows the same general approach. Identify workplace hazards, develop good working practices to avoid them, and then supply the proper industrial equipment to protect workers.
Preventing Chemical Exposure And Burns
The major risk associated with working with chemicals is exposure to the body surface. Chemicals in liquid form can easily splash onto workers, whether they are being transported or industrial safety equipments list pdf used in the production process. For employees working in these areas, industrial apparel is the foundation of preventing burns and occupational illnesses through direct exposure.
As a result, there is a large body of industrial equipment available to create a protective barrier between workers and chemicals. Every part of the body has a number of pieces of PPE that should be utilized. For example, there are face shields, goggles, safety glasses, and hoods that protect the head, face, and eyes. Many of these items can also be used as an attachment on hard hats for added convenience.
The hands also require protection from chemicals, just as they do when exposed to any other hazard. Nitrile and latex gloves will prevent most chemicals from reaching the hands. Elbow-length PVC and coated gloves provide extra protection for the wrists and arms. Splash suits and jumpsuits cover the majority of the body’s surface and can be taped inside of gloves and boots for a water-tight seal.
First aid industrial equipment to treat chemical burns will also help mitigate the injury potential of an exposure. Even something instrumentation in water treatment plant as simple as an emergency shower and eye wash to dilute chemicals on the body can save a person from serious harm.
Every company that works with chemicals must maintain Material Safety Data Sheets on every substance in stock. These sheets detail exactly what type of protective apparel provides the appropriate protection and how first aid should be administered.
The Other Chemical Exposure Risk – Inhalation
Many chemicals give off dangerous fumes or are used in a gas form. Inhalation hazards are particularly difficult to handle, since many of these fumes can be either colorless or odorless or both. Some substances can’t be smelled if they are concentrated enough to be lethal, and others are already lethal if they can be smelled at all.
For this reason, vapor detectors are a must in any relevant job site. This type of industrial equipment is typically calibrated based on the kinds of fumes expected to be present on a job site. They can be worn as a part of industrial apparel or stationed in the workplace and attached to alarms. Having an early warning system in place is the only way workers will know when to use respirators and self-contained breathing apparatuses.
Industrial Apparel Designed For Fire And Heat Hazards
Fires occur in over 70,000 work sites every year and cause over 5000 injuries and 200 deaths. A fire evacuation plan will save lives. Every job site should have a minimum of two fire exits that are maintained and kept clear of obstructions at all times. Practice fire drills periodically with all production and office staff to ensure everyone is prepared.
For flash fires, arc fires, and explosions, workers on the floor will not have the benefit of an alarm and orderly evacuation. This is where flame resistant industrial apparel can save lives by protecting workers long enough to evacuate or be rescued. This type of clothing is self extinguishing and will harden to form an insulating layer in the presence of intense heat. These features allow a person to survive exposure to sudden, intense heat.
Many workplaces also train their employees to fight incipient or early stage fires. If this is the case, the job site has to be equipped with numerous fire extinguishers that are clearly visible and easily accessible. First responders have to be trained in the ability to determine if a fire can be effectively fought with handheld industrial equipment or if an evacuation is necessary.
Overall, the safety and well being of all employees rests on being prepared. Stock and use essential personal protective equipment and supplies, and have a well-rehearsed plan in case an emergency occurs.
