When it comes to protecting yourself on the job, PPE is the last line of defense for Elevator Constructors. Hazards must be assessed, eliminated, or reduced through administrative or engineering controls. When hazards remain, PPE is what protects Elevator Constructors from injury. 

Head Protection

Head protection is required any time there is a risk of head injury. Objects can strike workers in the head, workers can strike fixed objects, and they can also come into contact with exposed, energized electrical conductors. Hard hats are specifically designed to absorb impact and project wearers against electrical hazards. Head protection must be correctly selected and worn and must be inspected regularly to identify any damage that could leave a wearer vulnerable.

Eye and Face Protection

Dust, flying particles, harmful chemicals, and intense light often cause eye and face injuries. Like head protection, eye protection must fit properly, allow clear vision, and work in tandem with other PPE. Safety glasses protect against flying particles and airborne materials, while goggles offer additional protection by sealing around the eyes and can even be worn over corrective lenses. Face shields protect the face from splashes and dust, but they are not a replacement for eye protection.

Hearing Protection

Another important piece of PPE is hearing protection. Exposure to noise above 85 decibels (dB) over an 8-hour time-weighted average requires employers to provide hearing protection, offer annual hearing tests, and monitor employee noise exposure. At 90 dB, hearing protection is required for all exposed employees. Molded earplugs, noise canceling earplugs, earmuffs, and foam plugs are all valid options when it comes to hearing protection. 

Hand and Foot Protection

Elevator Constructors are often exposed to cuts, abrasions, punctures, chemical exposures, burns and extreme temperatures that can damage their hands. Therefore, hand protection is vital. Equally vital is foot protection. Safety footwear tends to include impact resistant toes, heat resistant soles, metal shanks, and specialty features such as metatarsal guards and chemical resistance. Elevator Constructors must wear the foot protection that matches the job and the particular hazards present. 

Employer and Employee Responsibilities

The responsibility of assessing hazards, selecting appropriate PPE, providing the required equipment, training employees, and enforcing its use falls on employers. Training must cover why PPE is vital, how it protects Elevator Constructors, how it must be worn, how to inspect and maintain it, and when it must be replaced. It’s important to note, however, that employees also have responsibilities. Participating in training, using PPE consistently, and inspecting it before use are all key responsibilities on the part of Elevator Constructors. PPE only works when it’s worn correctly and used every time. 

NEIEP’s Culture of Safety

At NEIEP, priority number one is always safety. Everyone who steps through the NEIEP doors is taught to do each and every task in the safety way possible. That goes for everything from managing workplace risks using the hierarchy of controls, to understanding the importance of safe ergonomic practices for Elevator Constructors, to recognizing and mitigating human factors that impact professional performance.

Regardless of the particular job at hand, NEIEP’s mottos is the same when it comes to safety:

Know the steps. Follow the process. Get home safely.