If you work with chemicals, you know that proper safety gear is a must. But what does OSHA require when it comes to chemical splash gear? Read on to find out!
What is chemical splash gear?
Chemical splash gear is clothing that is designed to protect your skin and eyes from contact with hazardous chemicals. It typically consists of a full-body suit, gloves, boots, and a hood or helmet. While it may seem like overkill, it is important to remember that even a small amount of exposure to certain chemicals can be dangerous.
OSHA has specific requirements for chemical splash gear, which you can find in their Personal Protective Equipment standard – 1910.132. According to this standard, an employer must provide employees with the following:
- A body suit that covers the torso, arms, and legs.
- Boots or shoe covers that offer protection from the chemical.
- Gloves that offer adequate protection from the chemical.
- A hood or helmet that offers adequate protection from the chemical.
What are the OSHA requirements for chemical splash gear?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific requirements for chemical splash gear, also known as personal protective equipment (PPE), to protect workers from exposure to harmful chemicals.
Under OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.132, employers must provide employees with PPE to protect them from exposure to hazardous chemicals. PPE must be selected based on the hazards present in the workplace and must be compatible with other PPE being used. The following are some of the OSHA requirements for chemical splash gear:
- Face shields or goggles must be worn to protect the eyes from splashes of harmful chemicals.
- Gloves must be worn to protect the hands from contact with hazardous chemicals.
- Aprons, smocks, or other clothing that covers the front of the body must be worn to protect against splashes of harmful chemicals.
- Boots or shoes that cover the feet must be worn to protect against spills or splashes of harmful chemicals.
What are the benefits of wearing chemical splash gear?
There are many benefits to wearing chemical splash gear while working with hazardous chemicals. Splash gear offers a high level of protection against contact with harmful chemicals, and it also helps to keep the wearer’s skin and clothing from coming into contact with the chemicals. Additionally, chemical splash gear can help to protect the wearer’s eyes from splashes of hazardous chemicals.
How can I ensure that my chemical splash gear is effective?
OSHA requires that chemical splash gear be made of materials that provide an “impermeable barrier” to the splash. This means that the gear must completely cover your body and be made of materials that will not allow chemicals to soak through. There are several ways to ensure that your chemical splash gear is effective:
- Check the label: All chemical splash gear must be labeled with the name of the manufacturer, the material(s) used, and the date of manufacture.
- Inspect before each use: Before each use, inspect your gear for tears, holes, or other damage. If you find any damage, do not use the gear and replace it immediately.
- Do a ” Splash Test”: To test your gear, put on the entire ensemble (jacket, pants, gloves, boots, etc.), and then have someone else spray you with water from a hose. The water should not be able to penetrate anywhere on the ensemble.
What are some common mistakes made with chemical splash gear?
There are four major mistakes that are commonly made with chemical splash gear:
1. Not selecting the right type of gear for the job.
2. Wearing gear that is not compatible with other types of PPE.
3. Not properly donning or doffing the gear.
4. Not properly maintaining or storing the gear.
How often should I replace my chemical splash gear?
There is no specific time frame for replacing chemical splash gear, as this will depend on the type of gear and the frequency of use. However, OSHA recommends that employers inspect PPE before each use and replace it if it shows signs of wear or if it has been damaged.
What should I do if my chemical splash gear is damaged?
If you’re working with chemicals, it’s important to have the right personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep yourself safe. Chemical splash gear is one important type of PPE that can help protect you from harmful chemicals. However, if your chemical splash gear is damaged, it may not provide the same level of protection.
That’s why it’s important to know what to do if your chemical splash gear is damaged. If your chemical splash gear is damaged, you should:
- Remove the gear immediately and discard it in a safe way.
- Wash the affected area of your body with soap and water.
- Seek medical attention if you have any symptoms.
How can I properly care for my chemical splash gear?
You can prolong the life of your chemical splash gear by following these simple tips:
- Wash gear after each use in cool water with a mild soap.
- Hang gear to dry in a cool, ventilated area.
- Do not dry clean or machine wash gear.
- Store gear in a cool, dry place away from sunlight or excessive heat.
What are the consequences of not wearing chemical splash gear?
If you are working with chemicals, it is important to wear the proper splash gear to protect yourself from potential injuries. Without the proper gear, you could be exposed to harmful chemicals that could cause serious health problems. Additionally, not wearing the proper gear could also result in being fined by OSHA.
Where can I find more information on chemical splash gear?
There are several sources of information on chemical splash gear. OSHA’s Personal Protective Equipment standard 29 CFR 1910.132 requires employers to evaluate the workplace to determine if hazardous chemicals are present, or are likely to be present, in sufficient concentrations to warrant the use of protective equipment.
Information on specific chemicals can be found in OSHA’s Chemical Information section, and in the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. In addition, manufacturers of protective clothing and equipment can provide information on their products.
In Closing
If chemical splash gear is required, OSHA’s standard also requires employers to determine the most effective protective clothing and equipment for the particular application and to train employees in its proper use and care.
