Safety Glasses

• Purpose: To protect the eyes from chemical splashes, flying particles, and harmful vapors.
• Types: Adjustable glasses, glasses with side protection, airtight goggles for vapors.
• Use: They should always be used when handling chemicals or carrying out processes that may generate shards or particles.

Lab Coats

• Purpose: To protect clothing and skin from chemical splashes and biological contamination.
• Materials: Chemical-resistant cotton, synthetic polymers for increased resistance to acids and bases.
• Use: Select appropriate lab coats for the type of work being done; for example, fire-resistant coats for work with open flames.

Gloves

• Purpose: To protect hands from chemicals, cuts, burns, and contaminants.
• Types: Nitrile, latex, neoprene, PVC gloves, and specific gloves for handling materials at extreme temperatures.
• Selection and Use: Choose gloves based on the type of chemicals handled; change them regularly and always after contamination.

Safety Footwear

• Purpose: To protect feet from spills, falling objects, and electrical hazards.
• Types: Closed shoes, chemical-resistant boots, anti-slip sole footwear.
• Use: Always wear closed footwear in the laboratory; prefer steel-toe footwear for work with the risk of heavy objects falling.

Hearing Protectors

• Purpose: To protect ears in areas with high noise levels.
• Types: Earplugs, earmuffs.
• Use: Use when working with noisy equipment such as centrifuges, large mixers, or in environments with constant noise.

Masks and Respirators

• Purpose: To protect the respiratory tract from chemical vapors, dust, and biological agents.
• Types: Paper masks, respirators with chemical filters, air-supply masks.
• Use: Select appropriate respirators for the type of exposure; perform fit tests to ensure effective protection.

Hair and Body Protection

• Purpose: To prevent contamination of samples and protect the body and hair from dangerous substances.
• Types: Hair nets, protective sleeves, chemical-resistant aprons.
• Use: Use in jobs that involve handling hazardous materials or in biological hazard areas.

Signage and Training in PPE

• Importance: Understand and follow safety signage related to PPE.
• Training: Participate in regular training on the correct use of PPE and stay informed about updates in safety regulations.

PPE is a critical line of defense in the laboratory. Its proper and consistent use, along with training and awareness about safety, are fundamental to preventing accidents and maintaining a safe working environment.