The Importance of PPE
The importance of PPE in the workplace cannot be overstated. Without proper protection, workers are exposed to various hazards that can cause injury or illness. For example, exposure to hazardous substances such as chemicals and asbestos can lead to respiratory problems and cancer, while working with heavy machinery can result in cuts, bruises, and even amputations.
Wearing personal protective equipment is important not only for the safety and health of workers but also for the productivity and profitability of the workplace. When workers feel safe and secure, they are more likely to be productive and efficient in their jobs. Conversely, an unsafe workplace can lead to low morale, high employee turnover and potential legal issues. Incidents and injuries can become costly for everyone, with missed time due to injury, and high compensation costs.
It varies from case to case, but faithfully using all PPE that you are provided with on the job is the best way to ensure that should an injury or illness directly result, you will be covered by WCB insurance. Even for those jobs that “only take a few minutes”, you should never choose to not to wear PPE. Being found partially responsible in a court of law for your own workplace illness or injury from a failure to use PPE is a worst-case scenario.
PPE is recommended to be the last level of defense to prevent occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities, but some businesses combined it with other control measures to ensure a safe and healthy environment for their workers. Here are some benefits of using PPEs:
- prevent unnecessary injury in the workplace
- protect employees from excessive chemical exposure
- prevent the spread of germs and infectious diseases
- help businesses comply with regulatory requirements
- improve employee productivity and efficiency
What is required?
- High-vis (in the shop and anytime you are around moving equipment)
- Safety Glasses (in the shop at all times and while performing tasks that can create eye hazards)
- Safety footwear (in the shop and while working around equipment)
- Gloves (the right glove for the task, worn at all times, with the exception of working with rotating equipment)
- Hearing protection as required (when the noise around you cause you have to raise your voice to speak)
Who has PPE Responsibilities?
Everyone. All employees are required to wear PPE and its par of your job to ensure they do. We all have a responsibility to ensure a safe and healthy workplace for everyone.