Personal protective equipment plays a key role in safety. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can aid in preventing injuries to the hands, arms, body, and even the face and eyes. Depending on the job, PPE can be utilized to prevent slip/falls, eye injuries, burns, being hit by a vehicle, cuts, and contact with chemicals. The priority is to ensure the correct Personal Protective Equipment available and used for each job.
Preventing Burns, Cuts, Chemical Exposures, and Slip/Falls
Here are some best practices:
- An apron, fryer gloves, and face shield should be required when cleaning the grill or fryer or when operating the filtering machine.
- Oven mitts are required when removing hot items from the oven.
- Cut resistant gloves are required when using/sharpening knives or other sharp objects.
- Slip resistant shoes are required to prevent slip/falls.
The PPE Standard Process:
- Inspections – If PPE is not in good condition, employees will be less likely to wear it. Weekly or monthly inspections are necessary at each store to ensure that all items are still serviceable and reordered as needed.
- Location – Proper PPE should be stored near the immediate work area. Signs can be posted to remind employees the appropriate PPE required for a task.
- Training – Employees may not know which types of PPE are available for a job, and/or, if any is required. Employees should be trained on usage, cleaning, maintenance, disposal, and replacement.
- Enforcement Is Key – All managers and supervisors should be enforcing safety rules related to PPE. One injury due to an employee not utilizing the appropriate personal protective equipment can take that employee away from his/her job for days or weeks while hurting the stores profitability long-term from higher costs.