Personal protective equipment is used in every profession. From labor and construction to emergency services, these items are deemed essential for safety and protection. In Singapore, a variety of personal protective equipment is used, with some employers requiring employees to wear certain items like chemical suits or respirators when on-site.

The following are some of the personal protective equipment commonly used in Singapore;

1. Head protection

This consists of hard hats and helmets as a form of basic head protection. These are mainly used by construction workers. It can help to prevent the risk of head injury from falling objects, bricks, cement, and other construction materials. Engineers and workers who are required to wear helmets should ensure that the helmet is secured and worn correctly, and the chin strap is tucked into the shirt’s collar. In some cases, workers must wear hard hats and helmets depending on the nature of the work.

2. Personal eye protection

This includes spectacles, goggles, and face shields that protect both eyes from dust, dirt, and other airborne objects. They are important in construction sites where rubble or bricks may fall onto a person’s face. Some jobs, like those in food and beverage manufacturing, also require personal eye protection to avoid exposure to toxic fumes.

3. Gloves

These are required in certain industries and workplaces. The gloves will usually protect a worker from chemicals or other harsh substances that could cause skin irritation, burns, or other injuries to the hands. Some gloves are specially designed for specific tasks, such as surgical and examination gloves or welding gloves. This personal protective equipment in Singapore will help protect the hands, arms, and fingers from gas, steam, soda water, and other hot liquids. Protective gloves are usually made of rubber or leather and are worn over other work clothing. Some workers prefer wearing disposable rubber gloves since they can be reused without becoming smelly after use.

4. Footwear

These items of protective equipment include steel-toed boots, steel-toed shoes, and leather working boots. These are used by workers who are involved in construction, building or demolition works. They can protect the feet from heavy falling objects and other sharp objects on the ground. Safety shoes should be worn for all applications requiring foot protection including walking, standing, or climbing. The shoes should fit comfortably, and be free of defects and the surface area of the sole should be large enough to give good traction.

5. Fall protection

This is used to prevent injuries and falls in areas where workers are at risk of falling. Typical devices include harnesses, lifelines, and lanyards that can help to secure a worker against such risks. These are often used by workers working at height or who have to climb ladders or scaffolding. The equipment should always be properly fitted and adjusted, otherwise, it may not provide adequate safety measures.

6. Respiratory protection

These items are used when there is a risk of exposure to harmful gases, vapors, fumes, or dust particles. Inhalation of these substances can cause adverse health effects like breathing difficulties, difficulty in breathing, and infections due to inflammation of the airways. Personal respiratory protection is usually given the highest rating for protection against certain substances. Smoking is prohibited in areas where personal respiratory equipment is worn so as not to damage the respirator’s filter system.

It is important to familiarise oneself with the various protective items used in Singapore. By knowing the various options available, it would be easier to choose a suitable one and wear it properly. The appropriate equipment must always be worn when there is a likelihood of danger.

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By SARAH