Welcome back to miniseries part 3 of PPE talks. Today we look briefly at head and face protection. The previous articles can be found here and as always,  tēnā koutou katoa, or a warm welcome if this your first time on our page.

When working with hazardous materials or working within industries with potential for injuries in New Zealand, proper head and face protection is crucial for worker safety. Hard hats, face shields, and visors plays a vital role in safeguarding against chemical splashes, flying or falling debris, and other potential hazards. Let’s explore the importance of these protective equipment and some key considerations for their use in hazardous goods environments. 

Hard hats that comply with AS/NZS 1801:1997 are essential when there’s a risk of falling objects or head impacts (Site Safe). Hard hats offer head protection by acting as a buffer zone where the outer shell acts as a resistance and deflection all while internal suspension stretches and absorbs to redistribute the shock impact. For handling hazardous goods, consider hard hats that allow for attachment of face shields or visors.

Hard Hats: Your First Line of Defense 

• Inspect your hard hat regularly for cracks, dents, or other damage 
• Replace your hard hat every 2-3 years, as recommended by Site Safe NZ  
• Ensure proper fit and adjustment of the harness for maximum protection 

Face Shields and Visors: Guarding Against Splashes and Debris 

Face shields and visors provide crucial protection for your eyes and face when working with hazardous materials or particles. The standards recommended for practice and guidance for selection, care and use of eye and face PPE for are AS/NZS1336:2014 – Eye and face protection – Guidelines or the ISO 16602:2007 standards. 

Some face shields offer full face protection with respirator safety like the Shigematsu Full Face Mask Respirator. These PPE are especially important for guarding against chemical splashes, flying particles, and potentially harmful vapors. 

3M brand offers a range of face shields compatible with their safety helmets, such as the 3M™ Short Visor X5-SV01-CE. These polycarbonate visors feature anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings for improved visibility and durability. 

When selecting a face shield or visor, consider the following: 

• Ensure compatibility with your hard hat or other PPE 
• Choose appropriate coverage for the hazards you’re facing 
• Look for impact-resistant and chemical-resistant materials 

Real-World Applications 

Some examples of how proper headgear and face protection are crucial in hazardous goods scenarios: 

1. Chemical manufacturing: Workers handling corrosive substances should use a combination of a hard hat and a full-face shield to protect against splashes and vapors. 

2. Pesticide application: Agricultural workers applying pesticides benefit from wide-brim hard hats with attached face shields to guard against spray drift and UV exposure. 

3. Laboratory work: Researchers working with volatile chemicals should use lightweight visors or goggles in conjunction with other PPE for protection against splashes and fumes. 

Compliance and Training 

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act, employers in New Zealand are responsible for providing appropriate PPE and ensuring workers are trained in its proper use (SIte Safe NZ). This includes: 

• Selecting the right equipment for specific hazards 
• Providing training on correct usage, storage, and maintenance 
• Establishing clear policies on when and where PPE must be worn 

Remember, personal protective equipment is your last line of defense. Always prioritize engineering controls and safe work practices to minimize risks when handling hazardous goods. 

Conclusion 

Proper head and face protection is essential when working with hazardous materials in New Zealand. By choosing the right equipment, maintaining it properly, and ensuring workers are well-trained in its use, we can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and create safer work environments. 

For more information on selecting suitable PPE for handling hazardous goods, consult the guidelines provided by WorkSafe New Zealand or visit to us at Rifft Safety and Rifft Solution at 0800 474 338 or via email: hello@rifft.co.nz