Feature
PPE : SAVING LIFE OR LIMB
Compiled by Benjamin Brits
Personal protective equipment ( PPE ), in many cases , is mandatory for general site work and the more specialised the field of work – the more advanced the requirements for safety to be adhered to .
The HVACR industry has several high-risk elements , where the use of PPE , and the correct use at that , may save serious injury or fatality .
I ’ m quite sure ( too ) many people have been involved in situations where they look back and think to themselves “ I really should have been wearing protective gear ” or have been involved in close calls , or where the use of any sort of protective gear would have made an incident less serious . It is unfortunate that for most , PPE is really considered a burden , a grudge purchase or afterthought .
Incidents happen so quickly . From slipping and taking a fall , a simple drilling accident , a narrow escape from a flung piece of metal during a cutting task and even a misplaced tool or debris falling from overhead – are all real situations whether working in a workshop or out on site – the latter likely being of greater consequence if an incident occurs .
The subject and importance of PPE is by no means a new one and has been a topic of discussion for decades but is still as relevant today as a continual reminder that safety and a culture of preservation should always be a priority for all individuals and businesses .
According to AJ Charnaud , “ There is a huge variety of PPE available . The best PPE for a workplace will depend on the workplace hazards and the perceived level of risk . Ideally ,
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Eye protection is one of the most-commonly used items of PPE along with overalls , gloves , shoes , and helmets – no matter what the task .
a risk assessment for each category of employee should be undertaken to ensure that the correct PPE can be provided . For instance , employees handling goods should wear gloves to protect their hands from injuries . Companies should identify potential hazards and then research the different PPE types available to determine which items are suitable for the specific workplace setting .”
The provision of PPE and the associated costs can add up quickly and according to various industry members is something that must be monitored and controlled . A register of what and when PPE is issued to staff must be kept , and training on the correct manner of using PPE is also required . Record keeping is essential , particularly when an incident occurs and requires an incident report to be compiled .
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Catering to the needs and sizing of women has become a big driver for suppliers as many more women are entering the industry .
ENSURING SAFETY UNDER ALL CONDITIONS For any HVAC or refrigeration technician in the industry , safety plays an important role because of the variety of risks that exist . These could be due to working with pressurised systems , various types of refrigerants as well as possibly in extremely hot or extremely cold areas , a plant , building or facility .
Routine work tasks could also include things such as electrical hazards , chemical exposure , working at height , and a variety of weather conditions that need to be considered and catered to . According to the Health and Safety Executive , “ To make sure the right type of PPE is chosen that will provide adequate
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RACA Journal I August 2021 www . hvacronline . co . za