Choosing PPE and workwear to protect against chemical hazards is often a complex task. Not only is it necessary to carry out detailed risk assessments which take into consideration both immediate and longer-term consequences of exposure to harmful chemicals, but it’s also necessary to balance cost, the level of protection and comfort and the practicality of washing and storage, etc. when making decisions.
This guide outlines key things to consider when choosing chemical safety clothing.
When choosing new PPE or dealing with a new chemical hazard, it is always advisable to have a clear conversation with your supplier or the manufacturer to ensure that the PPE is going to be suitable for purpose. No PPE can protect against all chemical hazards and it is important to understand the chemicals that are involved and also differences in ways that they can permeate or penetrate PPE.
Also check how often the PPE will need to be replaced to maintain safety standards.
Have appropriate checking, storage and replacement processes
Worn, damaged or old chemical safety clothing and PPE can be a serious safety risk. Ensure that there are good records of when PPE was acquired and when it will need to be replaced. Also ensure that there are good quality and damage checking procedures in place, which are carried out regularly by staff who have up-to-date training.
Remember CE Safety Marks are the minimum safety standard.
It’s important to remember that the CE safety standards which all PPE used for working with hazardous chemicals should comply to, are only set to the minimum safety standards. They are also complex and often misunderstood. This video from our supplier Lakeland Limited sets out how to avoid misunderstanding CE safety standards: https://blog.lakeland.com/europe/webinar-chemical-protective-clothing-how-to-avoid-pitfalls-of-misunderstanding-ce-standards
Consider other PPE which is required
Practicality and comfort might mean that PPE required to work with chemicals, is not necessarily compatible with PPE which is required for other purposes. For example, using face masks might compromise comfort if goggles are being worn as they can steam up. In other cases, if chemical safety clothing could contribute to heat stress. Consider all the PPE workers might need for different roles and select appropriately.
As well as coveralls, PPE may be needed for the face, arms head and feet and ankles.
These gloves are suitable for use with a range of chemicals and solvents, this tough hard wearing gauntlet can be used in wet or dry conditions. They come with a cotton interlock liner for increased comfort, and are treated with Actifresh to kill bacteria and maintain freshness. One size only (large).
Consider the working environment
It’s important to consider the physical environment in which staff will be working while wearing the PPE. For example, how hot is the area, are there confined spaces? Do workers need to climb ladders or are there likely to be sharp edges that could tear the workwear? Does the PPE impact how easy it is for workers to communicate with each other?
Remember to check footwear is protective
Many chemicals can penetrate materials such as leather very easily. Make sure that all elements of clothing are considered when providing staff with safety workwear.
<b>Ensure storage and laundering are well managed</b>
Staff should not only be trained in how to wear chemical safety clothing, but also in how to store it and you should have good procedures in place to ensure that used and clean PPE is stored appropriately and separately. Using a contract laundry service for PPE used with chemical hazards is advisable.
A more detailed guide to selecting chemical safety clothing is available from our supplier Lakeland Ltd.
This free download will help you to adhere to COSHH regulations when selecting PPE for situations where substances are being used that are harmful via skin or eye contact:
As always our team are here to help and advise you on the right products to suit your needs. Call us on 01726 74264 or email sales@cisafety.com