DPT 8.0
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
•Equipment and training mandated
–OSHA (29 CFR 1910.120                                                    and 1910.134)
–NIOSH
–EPA
–JCAHO
–
•Equipment and training mandated for all personnel who have substantial risk of exposure to hazardous materials
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment or PPE refers to the use of protective clothing (suits, boots, gloves,) eye protection, and respiratory equipment that is designed to protect the eyes, lungs, and skin of the responder. During a HAZMAT accident or incident involving NBC agents, hospital personnel must be protected from the risk of personal injury.  These individuals must be provided PPE and trained in its use after first receiving medical clearance from a physician or licensed health care professional, and provided appropriate fit testing of the respirator they will use.  Retraining in the use of PPE needs to be provided at least annually to ensure staff proficiency.  More frequent training is recommended, especially for personnel designated to wear higher levels of protection (e.g., self-contained breathing apparatus).