5.3. Explain the use of personal protective equipment

This guide will help you answer 5.3. Explain the use of personal protective equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protects individuals from risks to their health or safety. It forms a barrier between the user and hazards in the workplace. This includes exposure to infectious diseases, harmful substances, or physical injuries. In health and social care settings, PPE helps to prevent the spread of infections and ensures worker safety.

PPE is used in conjunction with other control measures to manage risks. This means it is not a standalone solution. It supports safe working practices and hygiene measures to reduce harm.

Examples of PPE

PPE includes a variety of items worn or used by workers. Common examples in health and social care are:

• Gloves – Protect hands from contamination or infection.
• Masks – Prevent the inhalation of airborne particles and protect others from respiratory droplets.
• Aprons/Gowns – Shield clothing and skin from spills or infectious materials.
• Eye Protection (e.g., goggles or face shields) – Protect eyes from splashes or impact.
• Footwear (e.g., closed shoes or overshoes) – Protect feet from injuries or contamination.
• Hairnets or Caps – Keep hair covered to reduce risks of cross-contamination.

Depending on the task or environment, workers may need to use one or several types of PPE at the same time.

PPE in Health and Social Care

PPE remains an essential part of infection prevention and control in health and social care. Workers often face exposure to bodily fluids, waste products, and infectious agents. PPE helps reduce the risk of illnesses spreading between staff, patients, and visitors.

For example, during procedures like wound care, gloves and an apron protect both the carer and the individual. The gloves form a physical barrier against bloodborne pathogens, while the apron prevents clothing becoming contaminated by bodily fluids.

Not using PPE correctly can pose serious risks. Infection outbreaks in care settings can lead to increased illness, staff illness absences, and harm to vulnerable individuals. The effective use of PPE saves lives and reduces the burden of illnesses.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Using PPE correctly is a legal requirement under health and safety legislation in the UK. Two key laws cover this:

1. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
   Employers must ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their staff and others. This includes providing necessary PPE for specific tasks. Staff must cooperate by wearing or using PPE as required.
2. The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended)
   Guidelines for employers on selecting suitable PPE. Employers also need to provide training on its correct use and maintenance.

PPE is also vital under Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) guidelines in healthcare settings. These guidelines reduce transmission risks of infections like E. coli or COVID-19.

Employers failing to comply with these duties may face legal action or penalties. Workers too have a responsibility—they must use PPE properly and report any damage or defects.

When to Use PPE

PPE use depends on the nature of the task and its associated risks. A risk assessment identifies where PPE is necessary. Risk assessments look at:

• The type of exposure (e.g., fluid, sharps, or air droplets).
• The likelihood of harm (e.g., outbreak of bacteria or viruses).
• Who might be exposed (workers, service users, or others).

PPE becomes a must in tasks such as:

• Personal care activities, like assisting with washing or toileting.
• Handling waste, such as clinical or hazardous waste.
• Managing spillages or cleaning areas potentially contaminated.
• Direct contact with someone who has a known infection.
• Administering certain types of medications, like cytotoxic drugs.

For one task, multiple items may be required. For example, staff caring for an infectious patient may need gloves, a mask, eye protection, and a gown. Using all items together ensures comprehensive protection.

Correct Usage of PPE

Just wearing PPE is not enough; it must be used correctly. Incorrect use can lead to breaches in safety or contamination. Staff need proper training on the following key points:

1. Putting On (Donning) PPE

PPE should be put on in a clean area before entering the workspace. The sequence for donning PPE usually follows this order:

• Put on an apron or gown.
• Wear a mask, ensuring it covers both nose and mouth.
• Fit eye protection if needed.
• Put on gloves last, ensuring they cover the cuffs of the gown/apron.

2. Wearing PPE

• Avoid touching the outside of PPE while wearing it.
• Replace damaged or single-use items immediately.
• Maintain proper hygiene practices, like not touching your face and washing hands regularly.

3. Removing (Doffing) PPE

PPE must be removed in the correct order to avoid cross-contamination:

• Remove gloves first and dispose of them safely.
• Next, remove the apron or gown by tearing it at the neck and waist and folding inward.
• Take off eye protection by handling the arms or straps.
• Remove the mask by its straps without touching the front.
• Wash or sanitise hands after removing all PPE.

4. Disposing of PPE

Used PPE must be treated as clinical waste. Dispose of it in the correct bins or waste bags according to care setting policies. Non-disposable PPE, like reusable goggles, must be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly before being reused.

Challenges in PPE Usage

Workers may face challenges when using PPE. These can include:

• Shortages – A lack of supply may force staff to reuse single-use items, increasing contamination risks.
• Inadequate Fit or Comfort – Poorly fitted PPE, such as loose masks, can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of exposure.
• Misuse – Without training, workers may wear PPE improperly or use it when unnecessary.

Solutions include addressing these issues through ongoing training, regular stock reviews, and feedback from workers.

Training and Education

Employers have a duty to provide training on PPE use. Training ensures all staff understand how and when to use it. Typical training topics include:

• Understanding what PPE is required for specific risks.
• Demonstrating correct donning, wearing, and doffing techniques.
• Practising hand hygiene as part of PPE protocols.
• Understanding cleaning and disposal procedures.
• Educating staff on common mistakes, like wearing the same PPE across multiple tasks or reusing disposable items.

Periodic refresher courses keep staff up to date. Training helps to create consistent use of PPE across the organisation.

PPE in the Context of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of PPE in reducing airborne and droplet transmission. National guidelines advised specific PPE standards for dealing with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases, such as:

1. Single-use FFP3 masks or respirators.
2. Visors for eye protection during aerosol-generating procedures.
3. Plastic aprons and gloves for routine care.

The pandemic also brought PPE shortages to public attention, leading to innovative ideas such as reusable masks and visors. Care settings improved supply chains and PPE protocols to safeguard workers.

The Limitations of PPE

PPE is effective but not foolproof. There are limitations:

• It can only protect if used correctly.
• Certain PPE may not fully block fine particles (e.g., non-FFP3 masks for airborne viruses).
• Continuous use can cause discomfort, leading to errors like adjusting a mask.

Therefore, PPE should always be part of broader safety measures rather than the sole protective tool. Other strategies include good ventilation, frequent hand hygiene, and safe distancing where possible.

Key Takeaway

The use of PPE is an essential protective measure in health and social care. It reduces risks to both workers and those receiving care. By combining PPE with proper risk assessments, training, and hygiene practices, care settings can create a safer environment. Training and compliance with laws improve its effectiveness and contribute to better health outcomes.