The wearing of personal protective equipment (PPE) can be a very effective means for preventing or reducing exposure to chemicals. The types of PPE available are numerous and varied and are used to protect eyes (goggles, face shields), skin (gloves, slicker suits, boots), and the respiratory system (dust masks, respirators).

The selection of PPE will depend on the job being done, regulatory requirements, the physical and chemical properties and the hazards of the chemicals.

Recommendations on the appropriate PPE to use may be obtained by consulting the product label and/or the Safety Data Sheet. Product literature may also provide information to guide in the selection of PPE, in addition to providing other useful information about the properties and safe use and handling of the Dow product. When in doubt, an industrial hygienist should be consulted.

For additional information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s OSHA Web site, Personal Protective Equipment.