Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and training
Whether it’s coastal or inland, if you’re responsible for a body of water, you need to provide the right personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE really can mean the difference between a minor incident and a fatal accident.
What kind of PPE?
When you’re conducting water safety risk assessments, you can reduce risk by ensuring your employees or anyone near or on your water has access to the right PPE. This could include:
- Life rings
- Throw lines
- Boat hooks
- Life jackets
- Harnesses
- Helmets
Maintaining your PPE
PPE must be properly cared for. It should be stored when it’s not being used – for example in a dry, clean cupboard. If it’s reusable, it should be cleaned and kept in good condition.
We recommend you think about:
The person or people responsible for maintenance
Maintenance of PPE should be done efficiently and safely
Making sure workers use PPE properly and safely
They should know to always report lost or damaged PPE
Using the correct replacement parts
Always follow the manufacturer's replacement schedule
Having replacement PPE available
Making sure that this replacement equipment can be accessed at short notice.
Some maintenance can be easily and quickly done within your organisation, such as replacing whistles on lifejackets. More specialist equipment may need to be sent back to the manufacturer if it needs maintenance. For example, you’ll probably need some help with something like a harness for working at height over water.
Monitoring and reviewing your PPE
It's not a case of 'job done' once you've provided PPE. You'll need to monitor and review it regularly.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
Check that the PPE is being used.
If it is not being used, then find out why.
Use safety signs
These are a good reminder that PPE must be worn or is available. Many workplaces will have signage at their main entrance which tells you what kind of PPE must be worn.
Stay informed about PPE
Take note of any changes or updates in equipment, materials and methods - you may need to update what you provide.
PPE training for your workforce
It’s your responsibility to ensure that all employees are fully trained in how to use any PPE provided. They should also know how to maintain, clean and dispose of the PPE.
The extent of the training will vary depending on the complexity and performance of the kit. For example, learning how to use a throwline will need more training hours than how to use a lifejacket.
Don’t forget that as well as initial training, refresher training may be needed from time to time.
In an emergency
Call 999
Read more
Risk assessment training
Gain an in-depth understanding of risk assessments, their importance and how to effectively perform them.