Accidents happen in every work environment, and they come in various forms, from dangerous chemicals and sharp edges to loud noise and falling objects. With so many hazards, it is no surprise that employees experience almost 2 million incapacitating injuries annually, over a quarter of which will affect the eyes, head, feet, and hands.
To prevent workers from these incapacitating injuries, employers need to provide them with the correct types of protective equipment. However, just providing these products without teaching them how the right way to use them isn’t going to produce results. Today, our article highlights safety products guidelines for you and your employees.
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Safety Products Guidelines
Below are guidelines every safety product user should follow:
1. Knowing When Safety Equipment Should be Used
Safety equipment is essential for safe work environments; however, it remains the least effective way to control the risks associated with workplace accidents. In this light, it should be used in the absence of other concrete control measures.
In situations where safety equipment could reduce the threat of injuries, it must always be used.
2. Evaluating the Right Safety Products
The job being performed will determine the type of safety equipment that will be used. Consider the following when assuring its appropriateness.
* The requirements of the job being performed
* Consider if using the safety apparel will introduce new risks
* Consider if it will protect its users from risks
* Is it appropriate for the environmental conditions?
* Can these products be adjusted to fit correctly?
3. Selecting Suitable Safety Apparel
Before purchasing safety equipment for your employees, ensure you consult with them. They are more familiar with the work environment and will easily pinpoint things that you might miss. In addition, they are the primary users of the equipment, so it makes sense to consult with them before purchasing these products. They can help you pick the correct size and most comfortable apparel.
4. Properly Using them
It is the responsibility of employers to train their workers on how to correctly use their safety products. Aside from just teaching them, employers need to make their employees understand why they need to use these apparel, its limitations, how it should be maintained when it should be used.
5. Maintaining Safety Apparel
Safety apparel should be kept in good condition. Workers must always inspect equipment before use. Specialists should perform more intricate maintenance, such as replacing parts. But simple maintenance can be performed by workers themselves.
The manufacturer’s maintenance schedule must be followed strictly.
6. Storing Safety Apparel
When not in use, properly store safety apparel. For larger safety products, store them in a clean, dry cupboard. A case or a box is suitable for smaller safety products.