Page 13 - PPE GUIDELINE
P. 13
Guidelines on the Use of PPE Against Chemical Hazards
Use
Whenever possible, the head protection should not hinder the work being done. If
other personal protective equipment such as ear protectors or eye protectors is
required, the design must allow them to be worn safely and in comfort. Check
manufacturer’s instructions regarding the compatibility of head protection with other
types of personal protective equipment.
Use helmets according to manufacturer’s guideline, e.g. not all helmets are designed
to provide impact protection when worn backwards.
Never drilled ventilation holes in the shell of the helmet! This will reduce or eliminate
both impact and electrical insulation protection.
Maintenance
Head protection must be maintained in good condition. Poor maintenance may make
the head protection ineffective, uncomfortable or unhygienic.
Head protection should:
• Be stored, when not in use, in a safe place and should not be stored in direct
sunlight or in excessively hot, humid condition;
• Be inspected regularly for signs of damage or deterioration;
• Have defective harness components replaced (if the design or make allow this).
Harnesses from one design or make of helmet cannot normally be interchanged
with those from another;
• Have the sweatband regularly cleaned or replaced.
• Do not paint or cover helmet with stickers (hairline cracks could be hidden).
Replacement of head protection should be in accordance with the intervals
recommended by the manufacturer. It will also need to be replaced if the harness is
damage and cannot be replaced, or when the shell is damaged or it is suspected that its
shock absorption or penetration resistance has deteriorated.
Damage to the shell of a helmet can occur when:
a) objects fall onto it;
b) it strikes against a fixed object;
c) it is dropped or thrown;
Deterioration in shock absorption or penetration of the shell can occur from:
a) exposure to certain chemical agents, such as paints or adhesives;
b) exposure to heat and sunlight, such as near a window of a room or a vehicle;
c) ageing due to heat, humidity, sunlight and rain.
Department of Occupational Safety & Health, Ministry of Human Resources, Malaysia October 2005 13
