Why should PPE be worn?

Wearing PPE is all about preventing health problems. PPE is used to protect workers from various metal splashes or chemical products. Employers require employees to use PPE governed by the labor code. They are the ones who provide this equipment to the workers.

What does PPE mean in safety?

PPE are protective measures designed for workers to prevent them from various dangers with significant consequences. Employers assess the risks in their workplace to distinguish PPE choices. These can be noise-canceling headphones, safety shoes, breathing apparatus or other lawful measures.

What is the meaning of PPE?

PPE stands for personal protective equipment. According to the labor code, wearing PPE is a measure to take to protect yourself from several dangers. PPE is used by workers in several areas. This term refers to several elements and types of work clothing or PPE equipment. Their common function remains the protection of the user's body.

The building and public works sector is best known for wearing PPE. Related fields are also affected, such as welders and electricians.

The list of PPE in 3 categories

Wearing PPE depends on several risks likely to affect its user. Thus, there are three types of PPE:

• Class I for minor risks;
• Class II for significant risks;
• Class III for serious or fatal risks.

Indeed, the choice of PPE depends on the sector of activity. The different types of PPE are the helmet, the safety shoes, the ear muffs, the respirator, earplugs, etc.

When to wear PPE or Personal Protective Equipment?

Wearing PPE is required by the employer in the event of a delicate operation. Sometimes it is the internal rules of the company that order it.

PPE in the construction industry

Users have various choices of PPE depending on their activity and the environment in which they work. These are among others:

• Construction helmets;
• Various clothing: vests, jackets, pants. They can be flame retardant or waterproof. Fluorescent or reflective bands adorn these garments from time to time. These provisions are extremely useful on site where the worker works at night.
• Construction shoes;
• Construction gloves;
• Hearing protectors;
• Goggles;
• Etc

PPE in electricity

Various types of PPE are available to electricians and welders, including respiratory protection, insulated helmets, etc.

Healthy PPE

PPE is used to reduce exposure to harmful physical agents, chemicals and biological agents. Gloves, goggles and clothing are appropriate for these exposures.

Are work PPE mandatory?

PPE is indeed mandatory. In accordance with the Labour Code, the employer provides employees with various equipment. However, it depends on the work environment. The employer uses the information in the instruction manual such as the expiry date of the PPE, the instructions for use, etc. In addition, the employer is responsible for training in the use of complex PPE. It can be the use of breathing apparatus, a fall arrest system. Several areas involve the use of harmful chemicals, hence the recommended use of PPE.

In addition, several texts from the CNAMTS constitute instruction manuals for the use of PPE. This is the National Health Insurance Fund for Salaried Workers. In addition, the law provides for penalties for those who do not use the imposed devices.

According to Article R.4311-12 of the Labor Code, an individual is required to use or wear PPE for their safety and health .

How to make staff aware of wearing INRS PPE?

Employers can participate in raising awareness and informing employees about wearing PPE. The implementation of a meeting is recommended to explain to users the reasons for wearing this equipment.

Like wearing safety shoes, they are used to protect against falling heavy objects . Headphones are suitable for noise exposures. Different masks and goggles are designed normally for welders. For personal use, respirators prevent risks related to lack of oxygen or harmful gases. Thus, training is essential for everyone.

The training in question must be renewed to remember the applicable rules and techniques or in the event of an update.

The indications in their instruction manual allow workers to know the performance of PPE and the expiry date.

Texts require the worker to use PPE for operations involving a serious risk. However, there is no legal text concerning the coverage of the cost of PPE. In addition, the expiration period requires them to be renewed periodically. These are usually provided by the employer. The independent craftsman will bring his own PPE.