Does the use of chemical protective clothing require a program audit?
A process needs to be in place to ensure a competent person reviews the selection and use of chemical protective clothing. If chemical protective gloves and clothing are required, there should be a complete program in place that includes • the training of workers in the proper use and care of protective gear and • the selection, fitting, maintenance and inspection of the protective clothing and gloves. A successful program will ensure that any changes in chemicals being used are accounted for, will uncover any problems and will result in necessary changes or improvements. Unfortunately, chemical protective clothing are often considered as a fast and easy method of providing skin protection. The long-term costs of setting up and maintaining a chemical protective clothing program may be higher than the costs for implementing proper engineering controls. In addition, even with the use of gloves, the risk of contact with the chemical still remains. However, in many situations, when the eng
