Personal Protection Equipment
10. Classification of PPE
Depending on its protective effects, PPE may be classified as:
- Partial: aimed at protecting against hazards that are localised in specific areas or parts of the body (e.g. helmets, boots, gloves, etc.).
- Complete: which protects against hazards whose scope of action does not have a specific area of localization (e.g. fireproof clothing, safety belts, etc.).
The following table shows the different types of PPE and their classification:
| PPE OFFERING PARTIAL PROTECTION | Protective Headgear | Helmet |
|---|---|---|
| Ear Protection | Earplugs, Earmuffs | |
| Protection for the Eyes and Face | Goggles, Visors | |
| Protection for the Respiratory Tract | Masks | |
| Arm and Hand Protection | Gloves | |
| Foot and Leg Protection | Back belts, Aprons | |
| Trunk and Abdomen Protection | Back belts, Aprons | |
| PPE OFFERING COMPLETE PROTECTION | Barrier Protection | Creams |
| Fall-arrest Protection | Belts, Harnesses | |
| Specific Protective Equipment | Fireproof clothing |
The most important features of the most commonly used PPE are described next.
