Personal protection equipment (PPE) uses innovation and new technology to improve safety every day. As sports become more aggressive, jobs become more obscure or specialized, and science continues to evolve, the need for PPE increases all the time. It is necessary to be protected from the elements and set up a line of defense against pollutants or hazardous materials.
What is PPE?
Personal protection equipment like that available from Mira Safety is used to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals or conditions in the workplace, out in the field, or for common use. PPE can range from goggles, gloves, or ear protection to respirators or full hazmat suits. Personal protection equipment is used to protect the user in many ways but is most commonly found in use in areas such as biological protection for your eyes, skin, and lungs, ballistics, fire, sports, and respiratory. PPE should be both comfortable and functional while providing a line of defense for the user.
Who needs PPE?
Many professions require the use of PPE from military personnel, law enforcement, fire and medical personnel, beekeepers, and factory or line workers. The common civilian may be more aware of this type of equipment with a global health crisis or threat of nuclear warfare and the desire to be more prepared in an emergency. Anyone who is exposed to the elements or harmful pollutants should be protecting themselves with personal protective equipment.
Commonly Used PPE
- A gas mask will protect you from many harsh chemicals that could enter your body through your eyes, skin, or lungs. These can be used in Hazmat situations or help with emergency preparedness.
- A respirator or filter attachment will be necessary for optimal protection and usage. Filters are available for a variety of functions and they also vary in shelf life. The purpose of filters is for virus protection, smoke/carbon monoxide protection, tear gas or smoke bomb protection, and protection from radiation and other highly toxic chemicals.
- Gloves protect the skin from harmful chemicals or pollutants and can also provide heat protection.
- Goggles or safety glasses are used in many industries to protect the eyes from pollutants as well as debris.
- Ear protection is encouraged when constant noise pollution is present.
- Hazmat Suits are available to cover the whole body and protect from exposure to biological threats.
- Bulletproof vests protect the wearer from ballistics.
- Sporting equipment such as padding, shin guards, and mouth guards are widely used.
Where to find PPE?
If you work in a professional setting with exposure to harmful pollutants, you should be supplied with PPE. Basic safety equipment can be widely found at hardware stores, big box stores, or locations where medical supplies can be found.
Personal protection equipment is widely used for emergency preparedness among civilians through the military, law enforcement, fire and emergency personnel, and medical professionals. Athletes and restaurant workers also use PPE. Any profession or hobby that may expose your lungs, skin, or eyes to harmful chemicals or pollutants requires safety equipment.
