Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Protective clothing and equipment is an incredibly important part of the safety package – but should not be seen as the control measure of first choice – it is a measure of last resort in the control of workplace hazards. Always make every effort to eliminate or reduce workplace hazards at source (eg. by elimination; substitution; engineering controls; safe working procedures). It is only when these control measures cannot be implemented or where they would not be effective enough, should personal protective clothing and equipment be used to control exposure.
When considering PPE and other protective gear, the following should be considered:
- The Skipper should take full responsibility for all aspects of the protective gear package.
- Crewmembers should be properly trained in the safe fitting and use of protective gear.
- All protective clothing should be personally fitted and issued.
- All protective clothing and equipment must meet the applicable legal standards, and its use and maintenance should also be in conformity to relevant standards.
- Lost or damaged PPE or equipment must be replaced immediately.
- Crewmembers should not be charged for any item of protective clothing or equipment.
- Crewmembers should be required to clean and maintain their own protective clothing or equipment as far as practicable.
- Use of protective clothing or equipment should be part of the conditions of employment.
- PPE must be worn as required.
