How to Choose the Right PPE for Your Industry

At first glance, it may seem straightforward to equip industrial workers with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for their safety and protection. 

However, selecting the right PPE for your industry is a critical decision that requires careful consideration both on an individual employee basis as well as from a business standpoint. 

For businesses in the meat processing industry – such as abattoirs, slaughterhouses butcheries and commercial kitchens – this means considering how different hazards require specific equipment and hygiene procedures accordingly. 

Additionally, commercial kitchen staff must ensure they are using appropriate garments and equipment; for example, hairnets or hats to minimise contamination of foodstuffs. 

Keeping these considerations in mind will help you make the right choices that provide adequate protection levels while meeting your cost objectives. 

In this blog post, we’ll provide insight into what specific types of PPE are available along with advice and tips on how best to assess which items would best fit each situation – helping you create an effective plan for proper workplace safety!

Identify the Hazards in Your Industry 

Knowing the specific hazards of your industry is key to selecting the right PPE for you and your workers.

In any industry, the safety and well-being of employees should always be a top priority. 

A crucial aspect of ensuring that safety is identifying the unique hazards inherent to your particular industry, whether it’s meat processing, construction, manufacturing, or healthcare. 

Once you know the potential risks that your employees may face on a daily basis, you can take steps to mitigate those risks by selecting the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). 

By properly equipping your staff with the right PPE, you can help them stay safe on the job and focus on the task at hand without worrying about unnecessary dangers, which also equates to efficiency and keeping a business on target.

Ultimately, taking the time to identify hazards in your industry is a small investment that can yield big rewards in terms of employee health and well-being and a steady workflow. 

Choose The Right Protective Clothing 

Protective clothing must be chosen to protect against the hazards identified in your workplace. 

This includes items such as:

• Aprons
• Hairnets
• Boots
• Overalls
• Various noise protection
• Chain mesh gloves…and many more

Each job and workplace presents unique risks and hazards that must be identified and then addressed. 

NOTE –  Remember it’s not only about ensuring you have the right kit for the job but there’s the small thing of also ensuring you are compliant with a myriad of safety regulations especially when handling food for example. 

It’s not just about providing clothing, it’s about choosing the right clothing for the job.

Understand Personal Hygiene Equipment 

Hygiene equipment such as shoe covers and disposable gowns are available to help keep employees clean and reduce contamination risks.

Maintaining a high level of personal hygiene in the workplace is essential to prevent the spread of germs and keep everyone safe. 

From shoe covers to disposable gowns, there are a variety of hygiene equipment options available to ensure employees remain clean and free from contamination risks. 

By providing these tools, companies can promote a healthy work environment and minimise the risk of illness spreading throughout the workforce. 

With personal hygiene being more important than ever, it’s essential that all employees have access to the equipment they need to stay safe and healthy while on the job.

Select Appropriate Safety Gear 

Safety gear such as safety glasses, helmets, face shields, and hearing protection should also be considered when selecting PPE for your industry.

While choosing the right PPE, it is crucial to pay attention to the safety gear as well. 

Whether it is:

• Safety glasses to protect eyes from debris
• Helmets to protect the head
• Face shields to guard against harmful chemicals 
• Hearing protection to prevent hearing loss

Each gear plays a significant role in ensuring the safety of the workforce. 

With many different manufacturers around the world, you’ll never be short of options. Kenmaster looks to offer as varied options for the meat processing industry as possible. 

Plus there are manufacturers out there that are as old as some industries themselves with well over a century of experience, so getting a professional assessment of what you require is also vital before you heavily invest in covering your team. 

Train Employees on the Proper Use of PPE 

Employees should be trained in how to properly use their PPE and when it needs to be replaced or retired due to wear or damage

Naturally, your job is to get advice, assess and kit your crew out with the best possible solutions on the market.

However, providing them with the proper equipment is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s critical that your employees know how to use it correctly and when it needs to be replaced. 

That’s why it’s essential to train your employees on the proper use and care of their PPE. Not only will this help keep your employees safe on the job, but it will also give them peace of mind knowing that they are working in a safe environment. 

Work closely with the regulatory bodies within your state or government to sign up for the appropriate training courses that will get you certified which is also peace of mind for the consumer too.

NOTE –  It is not advisable to just do this in-house without consultation with people who set the standards.

Taking the time to have your employees trained and certified on usage and maintenance can make all the difference, and it’s an investment that is well worth making.

Maintain Records of PPE Usage 

Keeping track of who is wearing what type of PPE is a must as if an accident occurs accountability is paramount.

One way to do this is by maintaining records and in today’s advanced IT world there are plenty of software and Apps out there to assist you in organising and also setting reminders when certain gear has been in use for x amount of hours, days or months and should therefore be inspected or potentially replaced. 

Having detailed records not only ensures the safety of the team but also there is accountability to the regulatory agencies you address to who will conduct regular inspections and you’ll be in a position to provide detailed accurate information on the spot.

Plus, when accidents occur this is vital for not just the regulators but of course the insurance side. 

So if you want to make sure your workplace is as safe as possible, it’s crucial to start tracking PPE usage today.

SUMMARY 

In conclusion, selecting the right PPE for the meat processing industry and others is essential for protecting both workers and customers from potential hazards. Knowing the different types within your industry is critical to choosing the right type of protective clothing, safety gear, and hygiene equipment. It’s also important to properly train your employees on how to use the correct PPE and maintain records of their usage. Taking precautionary steps like this can go a long way in ensuring the safety of everyone involved in any kind of meat processing job.