5-point, or 6-point PPE? It depends on various factors. Ask the experts at Foley and Baugh to advise on the most appropriate PPE for your work environment.
When it comes to PPE on building sites, is the traditional 5-point system enough, or should workers be using six items of personal protective equipment? The answer depends on the risks involved, but there’s a strong case for considering respiratory protection as an essential sixth point, for example on many construction sites.
A standard 5-point PPE check covers the basics. It basically says that workers should have a hard hat to provide head protection, a high visibility vest so they can be seen more easily, protective footwear to protect their feet, protective work gloves for their hands and safety goggles or safety glasses to protect their eyes. These items provide protection against a range of common workplace hazards.
However, some jobs, such as construction work, can expose people to airborne hazards, including dust, fumes and chemicals. That’s why a 6-point PPE system adds respiratory protection to the usual five items. Depending on the work being carried out, suitable respiratory protective equipment can help protect workers’ lungs from harmful substances.
Of course, simply handing someone PPE isn’t enough. The equipment/clothes need to be suitable for the individual and the work they’re doing. It should be the correct size, fit properly and be comfortable enough to wear throughout the task. PPE also needs to take account of the working environment and the particular hazards involved. Working at height, for example, may require additional protection beyond the standard PPE.
Compatibility is important too. If several PPE items are being worn together, they need to work effectively as a combination. Safety goggles, for example, shouldn’t compromise the seal of a respiratory protection mask.
Employers should also make sure PPE meets the relevant UK requirements and consider whether changing circumstances create additional risks. A worker moving from daytime to night work may need extra high-visibility or illuminating equipment, while outdoor workers may need weather-resistant clothing.
So, should your site use 5-point, or 6-point PPE? There isn’t a universal answer. The right choice comes from assessing the risks of the work and providing protection that properly addresses them. Foley and Baugh will be happy to advise you.
Contact us today on 01493 659026 or email hello@foleyandbaugh.co.uk
