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Eye and Face Protection eTool
Selecting PPE for the Workplace
Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the eyes and face is designed to prevent or lessen the severity of injuries to workers. The employer must assess the workplace and determine if hazards that necessitate the use of eye and face protection are present or are likely to be present before assigning PPE to workers. [29 CFR 1910.132(d)]
A hazard assessment should determine the risk of exposure to eye and face hazards, including those which may be encountered in an emergency. Employers should be aware of the possibility of multiple and simultaneous hazard exposures and be prepared to protect against the highest level of each hazard. [29 CFR 1910 Subpart I App B]
| Hazard type | Examples of Hazard | Common Related Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Impact | Flying objects such as large chips, fragments, particles, sand, and dirt | Chipping, grinding, machining, masonry work, wood working, sawing, drilling, chiseling, powered fastening, riveting, and sanding |
| Heat | Anything emitting extreme heat | Furnace operations, pouring, casting, hot dipping, and welding |
| Chemicals | Splash, fumes, vapors, and irritating mists | Acid and chemical handling, degreasing, plating, and working with blood |
| Dust | Harmful dust | Woodworking, buffing, and general dusty conditions |
| Optical Radiation | Radiant energy, glare, and intense light | Welding, torch-cutting, brazing, soldering, and laser work |