Working with chemicals can be potentially dangerous, depending on the type of chemical and its concentration. Usually, there are guides and scientific studies on just how much of these workplace chemicals we can be exposed to and what type of PPE we should wear to minimize the risks of contacting potentially harmful substances through toxic splashes, temperature extremes, or harmful fumes. Regardless, workers need to know the appropriate PPE to wear.
An important safeguard when working with hazardous chemicals is wearing the right
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Appropriate and adequate respiratory protection must be used to prevent inhaling gases and vapors from harmful chemicals, and thus protecting us against adverse health effects. For example,
Full Face Respirators simultaneously provide respiratory and eye protection, which also prevents contamination through toxic splashes on the face. Full face respirators also offer a tight, snug seal that prevents air leaks, which ensures that only filtered air enters the mask. The full face respirator is just one example. Respiratory protection equipment can range from
N95 masks to
Powered Air Purifying Respirators and
self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Eye and face protection such as
safety glasses,
safety goggles and/or
face shields is a must, especially in workplaces where there is a significant risk of a chemical splash.
Most of us are exposed to noise every day. But in the workplace, when noise becomes unbearable and uncontrolled, this exposure may cause permanent hearing damage. Research also shows that exposure to chemicals such as pesticides, solvents, and pharmaceuticals can cause hearing loss or balance problems, as well regardless of noise exposure. Wearing hearing protection such as
safety earmuffs or
earplugs can protect the ears from noise and help to limit its exposure to workplace chemicals.
When handling hazardous chemicals at work, there is a risk of toxic or corrosive substances penetrating or being absorbed by the skin. Hence,
chemical resistant aprons or
coveralls are one of the most important and effective PPE items to wear when working with potentially dangerous chemicals. They should have elasticated cuffs and buttons or snaps for easy removal and no item of lab protective clothing should be removed from the workplace. In addition to this, it is also good to have
chemical resistant gloves that will protect the arms, hands, and fingers from harmful substances and skin absorption.
Chemical-resistant footwear must be worn anytime a worker is exposed to hazardous chemicals. Safety boots made for chemical resistance will use materials such as PVC to cover the entire foot and lower leg. Additionally, chemical-resistant boots can also include other safety features, such as having
steel toes. Coverings for the shoes also provide an additional layer of protection.
Asiong’s Industrial Products
Safety starts with us. Asiong’s Industrial Products is at the forefront of providing authentic, high-quality, and reliable safety solutions that fit best to your needs. Whether you’re purchasing a piece of safety glasses or a pair of safety gloves or a respirator, we provide an extensive range of safety equipment. Our team is also available to answer any of your safety-related questions on the phone or on our Facebook chat plugin on the lower right side of the screen.
