Personal protective equipment, commonly referred to as “PPE”, is equipment worn to minimize exposure to chemical and other hazards that cause serious injuries and illnesses. PPE creates a barrier between the ports of entry (mouth, skin, mucous membranes, respiratory system) and the hazardous materials in the work environment. Examples of commonly used laboratory PPE include safety glasses, safety goggles and face shield for eye and face protection, various types of gloves for hand protection and lab coat for skin protection.
To ensure proper use of PPE, laboratory personnel must know:
- When it is necessary
- What kind is necessary
- How to properly put it on, adjust, wear and take it off
- The limitations of the equipment
- Proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of the equipment
Laboratory room ventilation and the availability of fume hoods makes the use of respiratory protection unnecessary in most cases. In rare occasions that a respiratory protection is needed, call EH&S 777-5269 to enroll in our Respiratory protection program.
Resources
- Training Slides: PPE Use, Selection, and Maintenance
- PPE Policy for Research Laboratories [pdf]
- Glove Compatibility Charts
- Glove use illustration [pdf] and policy [pdf]