1.1 - Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is equipment needed to protect the wearer from danger.

Personal Protective Equipment on a Student and Their Functions

• Goggles — protect the eyes from hazardous chemical substances such as acid, bromine, ammonia and reactive metals.
• Face mask — protects the nose and mouth from inhaling pungent and volatile chemical substances and dust.
• Rubber gloves — protect the hands from hazardous chemical substances.
• Lab coat — consists of safety layers, is easily removed during an emergency and protects clothing from damage.
• Closed shoes / safety shoes — protect the feet from chemical substance spills and glass splinters.

Personal Protective Equipment in the Laboratory

• Safety shower — immediately cleans and rinses parts of the body or clothing that have come into contact with chemical substances.
• Eyewash station — immediately rinses and washes an eye that has come into contact with chemical substances.
• Fume chamber — used for experiments involving substances that are volatile, flammable, poisonous, corrosive or pungent.
• Laminar flow cabinet — avoids contamination while microbiological activities are carried out.
• Safety rule: report every accident or injury in the laboratory to the teacher immediately, even when protective equipment is available.