How often should Medical PPE be replaced?

When it comes to replacement, the ‘easy’ solution would be to have a timetable of replacement, such as every 6 weeks or 6 months. But this has the potential to be wasteful. PPE should be replaced when it needs to be, that is when it stops affording the wearer adequate protection.

How long does PPE last?

Some manufacturers say 3 years, others say an in use life of up to 5 years. Obviously how much exposure that they have had, how they have been stored, how many knocks they have had will determine the replacement interval.

Can PPE be shared and reused?

Sharing PPE is not advised. The protective capabilities of single use PPE cannot be assured when it is reused by the same person or used by more than one person. PPE should be removed promptly after use and disposed of properly.

Why is PPE considered the last resort?

According to the hierarchy of hazard control, although PPE is one of the most common forms of hazard control and found on most worksites, it is the least effective way to prevent a hazard from occurring. PPE is not considered highly effective because it does not control workplace hazards.

How long does a hardhat last?

That said, most manufacturers have recommendations on helmet and suspension lifespans. MSA hard hat shells should be used no longer than 5 years, while suspensions should be replaced after 12 months.

What is PPE considered the last resort?

PPE may be labeled as the last line of defense, but it is as equally if not more important as the other lines of defense in the hierarchy. If the other steps fail, the worker can be put at risk for serious injury or death.

Why is PPE considered the last?

You may already know the importance of PPE and why you should use it but PPE should always be used as a last resort when trying to keep yourself safe. It is considered the last line of defense because of its place on the hierarchy of hazards.

Is PPE always effective?

PPE is not considered highly effective because it does not control workplace hazards. PPE is used to reduce exposure to hazards in the workplace and is usually recommended for workers in the field, but should never be used as the only effort to protect employees.

Why do hard hats expire?

The reason hard hats expire is pretty simple—They become less effective over time. Since hard hat manufactures must meet safety standards, they are created to be extremely durable—However, they do not last forever. Depending on your work environment, your hard hat might need to be replaced at different rates.

Do helmets have an expiration date?

In general, yes: Helmets have an expiration date. That’s because exposure to sunlight, heat, and other elements degrades the foam and other parts of the helmet. Plus, helmets tend to get knocked around with use. Most stated that you should replace your helmet every three to five years.

Why is PPE last on hierarchy of controls?

The aim of engineering controls is to isolate people from the hazard. PPE is found at the bottom of the hierarchy of hazard controls because it is designed to protect the employee once the hazard comes into contact with them, not prevent the hazard from happening.

Can PPE be shared reused or altered?

Sharing PPE is not advised. The protective capabilities of single use PPE cannot be assured when it is reused by the same person or used by more than one person. Sharing PPE that is intended for single use may expose another person to infectious materials.

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