PPE for emergency situations

To handle the spate of man made and natural disasters that have hit the U.S. recently, from acts of terrorism to tornadoes and hurricanes, emergency workers need a range of PPE to avoid the threats of bacteria, biohazards, contaminated water and more.

The PPE needed for disaster situations varies according to the type of catastrophe and extent of destruction. Some examples are as follows:

* First response for hurricanes and floods – heavy duty nitrile gloves, aprons, coveralls, overalls and jackets
* Hazardous material cleanup – flat-film gloves, polyester CPC suits, overalls, coveralls
* Rebuilding and construction – nitrile-coated gloves, heavy-duty aprons, overalls, coveralls

Companies should keep a supply of PPE on hand and train personal in its use. Safety managers should have the logistics in place to distribute PPE to workers in emergency situations.