Personal protective equipment

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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), pronounced as /ˈpɜːrsənəl prəˈtɛktɪv ˈiːkwɪpmənt/, is a category of devices and garments designed to protect the wearer's body from injury or infection. The hazards addressed by protective equipment include physical, electrical, heat, chemicals, biohazards, and airborne particulate matter.

Etymology

The term "Personal Protective Equipment" originates from the field of Occupational Safety and Health. The term is self-explanatory, referring to equipment that provides protection to an individual (personal) against potential harm or injury (protective).

Types of Personal Protective Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment can be categorized into various types based on the part of the body they protect and the type of hazard they are designed to mitigate. Some of the common types include:

  • Respiratory Protection: These are devices designed to protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous substances. Examples include respirators and masks.
  • Eye and Face Protection: These devices protect the wearer's eyes and face from flying debris, chemical splashes, or potentially harmful light radiation. Examples include safety glasses, goggles, and face shields.
  • Hand Protection: These are designed to protect the hands from hazards such as extreme temperatures, harmful chemicals, and cuts or punctures. Examples include gloves and hand pads.
  • Foot Protection: These devices protect the feet and legs from hazards such as falling or rolling objects, sharp objects, molten metal, electrical hazards, and slippery surfaces. Examples include safety shoes and boots.

Related Terms

  • Occupational Safety and Health: This is a multidisciplinary field concerned with the safety, health, and welfare of people at work.
  • Hazard: A potential source of harm or adverse health effect on a person or persons.
  • Respirator: A device designed to protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous atmospheres.

External links

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