FEATURES
A new trend in safety wear is the focus on PPE for women .
as well as the risk of paint splashes and other chemical hazards , is often misemployed . “ Often spectacles are used but it should in fact be goggles and should be rated for impact as well . Most workers who use a face shield don ’ t think it ’ s necessary to wear a dust respirator under the shield ,” Naidoo points out .
Another key element that is overlooked is the need for optimal communication . “ 3M believes that to ensure you have the right equipment for your site , it is vital to adopt a holistic approach . Such an approach encompasses the actual conditions of each site , complies with all applicable legislation and policies , and pre-eminently , promotes the safety of your personnel at all times ,” says Cilliers .
Skills development and training is an ongoing battle for many timber companies , says Berman-Jacob , adding that most training currently takes place ‘ on-the-job ’ and often this comes in the form of trial and error . “ In addition to this , the work is physically demanding , and workers typically live on low nutrient diets . This naturally results in fatigued and unfocused workers which leads to errors and injuries .
“ There are no ‘ quick fixes ’ to problems such as these , however , companies like SAPPI are leading the way by implementing initiatives such as ‘ Stop Think Act ’ ( STA ). A critical factor that is leading the success of the initiative is the proactive engagement , consultation and communication between all stakeholders . Visual stories and images play a key role in overcoming language barriers .”
THE SMART FUTURE OF PPE
As we move towards the fourth industrial revolution , PPE is becoming more intelligent and connected . “ Connected safety technology is enabling businesses to protect workers more effectively and helps them achieve a competitive advantage by reducing many safety management-related costs ,” says Naidoo .
She adds that innovative design and product development is being used to improve PPE . “ We understand that having to wear a hard hat , face shield or eyewear , respiratory protection and hearing protection at the same time can be very uncomfortable and cumbersome . 3M is moving towards providing integrated PPE systems where the user just has to don one item to provide the required protection .
“ Many companies have , over the years , implemented databases to record and monitor their employees ’ exposure levels and better manage and maintain the safety equipment they use . Yet , this has traditionally been – and continues to be – a paper-based process of manually inputting occupational safety and health data , despite the availability of software applications to simplify the task .
“ 3M is also investing in ‘ smart safety ’ where products currently available use smart technology and are able to collect and collate data and conduct personal monitoring .
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40 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018 //