Personal Protective Equipment Hazard Assessments-February 2003

Skyline Environmental, Inc. would like to bring to your attention the PEOSHA/OSHA Regulations (29 CFR 1910.132) with respect to required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Hazard Assessments.

The topic of Hazard Assessment has been emphasized in several conferences that we have recently attended. Regulators have advised us that they will be looking for documentation that a Hazard Assessment has been performed when they visit you for an inspection.

PPE Hazard Assessments help to identify potential hazards to employees before they cause an injury or accident. Upon the completion of a hazard assessment, the assessor should recommend hazard control measures, if necessary. They may include:

  • Engineering controls (i.e.; elimination, enclosure, isolation, or removal of the hazard)
  • Administrative controls (i.e.; work procedures, training), and
  • Personal protective equipment (i.e.; gloves, boots, respirators).

A PPE Hazard Assessment is likely to result in:

  • Fewer worker injuries and illnesses;
  • Reduce worker compensation costs; and
  • Increased worker productivity.

The analysis can also be used as a valuable tool for training new employees on the steps required in performing their job safely.

Keep this year a safe one. If you would like guidance in conducting a hazard assessment at your facility, please contact Mr. James N. Gotay, QEP, CSP or Ms. Cori K. Nolte, P.E. at (732) 583-2500.