3 Ways wearing PPE can sometimes expose you to hidden dangers

If you want to protect yourself from dangers in the workplace you need to wear Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)! Whether you work in a factory, construction site or laboratory, you always need to wear the correct PPE to avoid injuring yourself or exposing yourself to anything dangerous.

For affordable PPE, including safety wear and equipment, visit L&A Safety’s website or pop into one of their stores in Cape Town, Robertson or Vredenburg.

If you’re not careful, there can be a negative side to wearing PPE, especially if you use it improperly…

It can give you a false sense of security

A false sense of security can be dangerous and even deadly! Just because you are wearing your PPE doesn’t mean you cannot be harmed, accidents can still happen. Workers who wear PPE and believe they are completely protected can be careless when it comes to handling chemicals, electricity and other dangerous objects.

It can create hazards

PPE doesn’t fit everyone the same, it is not one size fits all, so you need to wear the PPE that is specifically designed for your work. If you wear the wrong PPE protection or the incorrect size then you are putting yourself in harm’s way.

Pre-contact vs. point-of-contact

PPE protects workers during point-of-contact hazards, such as exposure to ultraviolet light or contact with dangerous acid. Yes, PPE improves worker safety by reducing the risk of injury, but it doesn’t eliminate the hazard! Pre-contact controls are essential to improving worker safety as they eliminate hazards completely.

PPE includes hard hats, helmets, safety boots, gloves and masks as well as hearing protection and so much more – always wear the correct PPE and plan out your PPE program carefully.

Safety Equipment used in a Scientific Laboratory

Science labs are a unique workspace, given the hazardous chemicals that most laboratory technicians are handling on a regular basis. To prevent contamination and injury, it is essential to implement proper safety attire and equipment throughout the facility. If the lab site is going to be used by students, it may also be wise to have them sign a contract stating that they understand the safety rules for the lab.

Goggles

Goggles prevent injury to the eyes by blocking harmful substances that could splatter during an experiment. Goggles also prevent contamination of the experiment by blocking any eyelashes that may fall into the work area. Finally, they protect the eyes from biological substances that may be carrying contagious diseases.

Aprons

Aprons prevent spills from reaching the laboratory technician's clothes. In a sterile environment, they protect the lab experiment from contaminants on the technician's clothing. If the technician is working with a substance that would otherwise stain his clothes, most lab aprons are made of polyester which naturally repels substances instead of absorbing them.

Washing Equipment

In the event of an accident, all laboratory facilities are required to have a sink, eye-washing station and emergency shower. These areas are usually distinguished in a lab because of their yellow handles and covers. Many labs also contain a drain to ensure contact-free removal of spills.

Always remember safety first when using chemicals or working on chemistry experiments!

L&A Safety is your one-stop supplier of safety wear and equipment. Whether you are looking for boiler suits and safety gloves or hard hats and steel-cap boots - we have it all!