How to choose chemical protection equipment for high-risk jobs

1. Assess the types of chemicals to be exposed
In order to select the right equipment, it is necessary to know what type of chemicals to be exposed to, such as:
● Acidic and base chemicals, such as sulfuric acid, caustic soda, which are highly corrosive
● Organic chemicals, such as solvents, alcohol, which may permeate materials
● Toxic gases and vapors, such as ammonia, carbon monoxide, which may enter the body through inhalation
● Flammable chemicals, such as xylene, toluene, which are flammable

Understanding the properties of these chemicals will help you select PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that is appropriate for your risk profile.

2. Select protective equipment that is appropriate for the organs to be protected.
Protection against chemical hazards requires considering which organs are most at risk of harm and selecting the appropriate equipment, such as:
2.1 Respiratory Protection
Used when exposed to chemicals in the form of gases, vapors, or toxic dust.
● Chemical Respirators should be selected according to the type of chemical, such as:
○ Organic Vapor Cartridge for solvents
○ Acid Gas Cartridge for sulfuric acid
● Supplied-Air Respirator (SAR) is suitable for confined spaces or areas with low oxygen levels.

2.2 Eye and Face Protection
● Safety Goggles for protection against chemical mist
● Face Shield is suitable for work where concentrated chemical splashes may occur.

2.3 Hand Protection
● Chemical-Resistant Gloves, such as:
○ Nitrile Gloves, protects against solvents
○ PVC Gloves, protects against industrial chemicals
○ Butyl Gloves, resistant to highly corrosive substances

2.4 Body Protection
● Chemical Protective Suit must be selected according to the level of protection, such as:
○ Level A : Maximum protection, including respiratory system
○ Level B : Protects against liquids, but respiratory system must be used with a mask
○ Level C : Protects against general liquids, uses air filter mask
○ Level D : Basic protection from non-aggressive chemicals

2.5 Foot Protection
● Chemical-Resistant Boots, protects against corrosive substances, such as PVC, Neoprene

3. Check the safety standards of the equipment
When choosing chemical protection equipment, check that it meets safety standards, such as:
● EN 374 – Chemical protection gloves standard
● EN 166 – Safety glasses standard
● EN 943 – Chemical protective suits standard
● NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) – Respiratory mask standard

4. Comfort and suitability
Although some equipment may provide maximum protection, if it is inconvenient to wear, it may affect work efficiency. These factors should be considered:
● Size and Adjustability
● Breathability
● Weight of Equipment

5. Maintenance and service life
When choosing equipment, consider its maintenance capabilities, such as:
●     Some gloves are reusable, but must be washed after use.
●     Respiratory masks must have their filters replaced at specified intervals.
●     Chemical protection suits should be stored in a dry place and away from sunlight.

6. Training and proper use
Although equipment is highly effective, if the user does not know how to use it correctly, it may reduce its protection efficiency. Training should be provided on:
●     Correct donning
●     Checking the integrity of the equipment before use
●     Safe removal of equipment to avoid contamination

Selecting chemical protection equipment for risky work requires an understanding of the chemicals you will encounter, as well as selecting the right equipment for the organs to be protected, along with following safety standards. If selected correctly and used appropriately, it will effectively reduce the risk from chemicals.