In any workplace, proper safety procedures are crucial to ensuring a safe work environment. Whether on a construction site, in a warehouse setting, or other dangerous job settings, PPE, or personal protective equipment, is a major issue. PPE can reduce exposure to hazards and protect workers in case of events or accidents that can cause injury or pose a safety risk. But what is PPE, and how does it ensure a safe work environment?

The Importance of Protective Equipment

PPE is key to keeping workers safe in the event of any hazard, from wet floors, to failing equipment, to falling construction debris. This can mean high-visibility vests in construction, safety footwear for slippery surfaces, and harnesses for manning equipment high off the ground.

Head Protection

One of the most well-recognized types of PPE is head protection. You’ll see high-visibility orange, yellow, and white hard hats on just about any construction site. This PPE is designed to protect people from flying or falling objects that can cause serious head injuries or even fatalities. They should always be well-fitted to ensure proper protection.

Face Protection

Safety goggles and face shields are frequently used by welders, woodworkers, and general laborers alike. This PPE provides vital eye and face protection from flying debris and power tools that will be encountered in many types of work environments.

Respiratory Protection

Respiratory protection is extremely important for anyone working with potentially dangerous fumes or microscopic debris in the workplace. Firefighters and those dealing with hazardous materials will use respirators to prevent injury and illness from toxic air content, while many construction workers will use simpler face masks to prevent smoke or silica dust inhalation.

Hearing Protection

If you work around jackhammers, heavy machinery, and other loud equipment, hearing protection is key to preventing hearing loss and other hearing issues. PPE such as noise-canceling headsets will frequently be worn by jackhammer operators and handlers on airport runways who spend their days around loud jet engines.

Hand and Skin Protection

PPE such as gloves is important for hand protection in a number of work settings. Safety gloves can help prevent injury when working with construction, demolition, and welding equipment. It’s also important on construction sites to take protection from the sun seriously by covering exposed skin when possible and using sunscreen to prevent dangerous burns and protect against skin cancer.

Why Partner with Absolute Solutions & Associates?

Absolute Solutions & Associates is proud to be the preferred facility maintenance and facility equipment provider of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and beyond. Our knowledgeable team members are dedicated to providing unparalleled customer service, competitive value-added pricing, and a finished product. You will be pleased you chose to partner with Absolute Solutions & Associates. From grounds maintenance services to commercial building operations and maintenance, we have you covered. To speak with one of our team members and learn more about how we can work together to exceed your expectations and satisfy your needs, please contact us today! You can reach us at 202‐630‐9469. Also, check us out on Google +, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.