Guidance Procedures for the Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the Workplace

These Guidance Procedures must be read in conjunction with the University Policy relating to the Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the Workplace, The Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984, The Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996, the Code of Practice on First Aid, Workplace Amenities and Personal Protective Equipment (http://www.safetyline.wa.gove.au/pagebin/codewswa0229.pdf)

Context

Personal protective equipment and clothing, suitable and sufficient for use by staff in hazardous areas, will be provided and maintained by the University and will be made available without cost to staff members who require such equipment for the conduct of their duties.

Students, contractors and visitors shall be responsible for the provision and maintenance of their own personal protective equipment except where provided at the discretion of the University.

Additional provisions relating to Protective Clothing are contained with the University's Enterprise Bargaining Agreements.

The use of personal protective equipment is the lowest in the order of control priorities. This method of control should not be relied upon as the primary means of risk control until the options higher in the list of hierarchy of hazards controls has been exhausted. Personal protective equipment may be used in conjunction with other controls where the risk of exposure is high.

If personal protective equipment has been identified as one of the control measures to minimize exposure to a risk, the employer must make sure such equipment is provided.

The employer should also provide training and instruction in the use of personal protective equipment to ensure employees receive the desired level of protection from the equipment.

Definitions

Personal protective equipment and clothing - any protective item designed to minimize the effects of hazards and reduce the risks outlined in the WorkSafe WA Code of Practice on First Aid, Workplace Amenities and Personal Protective Equipment. (http://www.safetyline.wa.gov.au/pagebin/codewswa0229.pdf)

Compliance

All personal protective equipment and clothing will comply with current relevant Australian Standards.

The supply and use of appropriate personal protective equipment shall comply with all associated Australian Standards, Codes of Practice and legislative requirements under the provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Act WA 1984 and Occupational Safety and Health Regulations WA 1996 (Division 2 - General duties in relation to personal protective clothing and equipment).