The Right Way to Clean Your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Keeping your personal protective equipment (PPE) clean and in good condition is essential to ensure its effectiveness against potential workplace hazards. After explaining how to get your hi vis garments clean, in this comprehensive guide you’ll find out exactly how to keep your PPE clean and safe, so that it continues to provide protection while you work.
Determine the Suitability of Your PPE for Cleaning.
Before you can start cleaning your PPE, it’s important to determine if it’s suitable for cleaning. The type of material used within the PPE will determine what kind of cleaning method can be used. For instance, some fabrics are too sensitive for washing and must be dry-cleaned or steam-cleaned instead. It’s important to carefully read all labels or check with the manufacturer first before cleaning any type of PPE.
Introduce Sanitation Routine Policies and Workflows.
Implementing cleaning protocols is one of the best ways to keep your PPE clean and hygienic. Develop a routine that includes cleaning schedules, disinfectants, and the right techniques. It’s important to assign responsibility for sanitation so that everyone in the facility knows who is responsible for what type of cleaning, when it needs to be done and how it gets done. Cleaning your PPE on a regular basis is key to extending its life and ensuring its continued effectiveness.
Dispose and Replace Damaged, Contaminated or Compromised PPE.
It’s highly important to replace or discard any used PPE that is cracked, torn, no longer fits properly or is compromised by a harsh chemical which cannot be adequately removed. Protective equipment should not be reused if it has come into contact with infectious materials: such as blood, body fluids, excretion products such as urine and vomit, chemical spills or splashes during their use. At Healthy Bean, we know that it can be difficult to understand how to dispose of your PPE correctly to avoid any risks, which is why we have prepared this guide to help you do so.
Choose Properly Formulated, Non-Abrasive Cleaners and Sanitizers to Avoid Damage to Materials and Protective Layers of the PPE
Cleaning your PPE is essential, but using the wrong cleaners can cause damage to materials and protective layers. Choose suitable products designed specifically for cleaning the type of material of your particular equipment is made of. Ensure that only non-abrasive chemicals or detergents are used and avoid strong bleaching agents or solvents that may cause discolouration, degradation, or harm other parts of the suit. After cleaning with a damp cloth, wipe over again with a clean dry cloth to help prevent any further staining from water marks.
Keep Records of Cleaning, Visual Inspection, Repairs and Disposal of PPE for Quality Control Purposes
Keeping an accurate record of PPE cleaning, inspection, repairs, and disposal is vital for long term quality control. Make sure to document when and where the equipment was cleaned. Inspect your PPE for any signs of wear or tear, have any necessary repairs completed in accordance with safety protocols and dispose of any badly damaged or worn out protective gear. Make sure to keep regular records of all activity related to your PPE in order to ensure safe use over time.
Now that you know how to clean your PPE to make sure it is always effective, browse our website to find the perfect option for your needs!
Healthy Bean is the ideal supplier for those looking for high-quality PPE, Safety Workwear and Safety Footwear solutions. With more than 4,000 products, we provide the best option for all types of work environments, from construction to manufacturing, welding, medical, food production, hospitality, corporate, and more.
