6 Essential PPE Items for Hurricane Response
In the chaotic aftermath of a hurricane, first responders and recovery workers face a variety of hazards that demand top-tier protection. From navigating storm debris to clearing damaged structures, wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) can mean the difference between safety and serious injury. Cut-resistant gloves, effective headwear and reflective gear are all essential to ensure protection in hazardous environments.
This article will cover six crucial PPE items for hurricane response. These items help to keep workers safe while navigating the dangerous challenges left behind by the storm.
1. Safety Goggles
When it comes to hurricanes, flying debris, dust, chemical spills and contaminated water are a big concern for first responders’ vision. Without proper protection, these hazards can lead to eye injuries, infections and even long-term vision damage. They can also make it hard to perform a task effectively. Wearing proper eye protection can help reduce or entirely eliminate these risks while maintaining a first responder’s ability to see.
The 3M™ Goggle Gear 500 Series offers sealed protection against sharp objects, harmful fluids and airborne particles. It also offers a low-profile design, indirect ventilation and an anti-fog/anti-scratch coating to keep worker vision clear.
2. Hard Hats
First responders also have concerns about overhead risks, such as falling debris, collapsing structures and high winds. Not addressing and protecting against these hazards puts responders at risk of concussions, skull fractures and lacerations. Wearing hard hats built with dense materials and effective suspension helps reduce the risk of these hazards, giving responders more assurance on the job.
Safety hard hats from Jackson® are designed with high-density polyethylene and a 4-point suspension. They offer a high level of ventilation and breathability for increased comfort.
3. Cut-Resistant Gloves
Working with hands is a big part of any job. That’s why first responders need to protect them with high-quality protective gloves. Proper gloves work as a barrier against sharp debris, contaminated materials, chemicals and rough surfaces, and insulation from heat or cold in extreme weather conditions. They also improve grip in wet or slippery conditions, allowing responders to handle tools and materials safely.
The Samurai Glove® from Global Glove is a high-visibility orange-and-white glove designed with outstanding cut resistance. The palm also has a clear vulcanized silicone coating for a superior grip and a tack-free advantage.
4. Protective Coveralls
Aside from protecting their head, eyes and hands, first responders also need to protect their torsos and lower body parts. Coveralls create a full-body barrier against contaminated water, sharp debris, chemicals and biohazards, reducing the risk of punctures and infections.
The DuPont™ Tyvek® 400 coverall is composed of flash-spun high-density polyethylene, which creates a unique, nonwoven material. It also provides an inherent barrier against particles down to 1.0 microns in size, ensuring protection at the highest level.
5. Respirators
There are many airborne risks in the aftermath of a hurricane. These can include everything from dust and chemical fumes to mold and asbestos. Breathing these substances can result in respiratory issues, infections and long-term lung damage. Wearing proper respirators helps first responders reduce these risks and breathe better in harsh environments.
3M offers an N95 disposable respirator that is NIOSH-approved and provides at least 95 percent filtration efficiency against non-oil-based particles and aerosols. It’s designed with Cool Flow™ Exhalation Valve to allow workers to release warm exhaled breath inside the respirator.
6. Reflective Vests
Reflective PPE is essential for hurricane response because it enhances visibility in low-light, chaotic environments. During recovery efforts, responders often work in conditions with limited lighting during power outages, nighttime operations or heavy rain. Reflective gear makes them more visible to heavy machinery operators, vehicles and fellow workers, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Global Glove’s FrogWear® HV High-Visibility Safety Vest is made from breathable mesh polyester. The vest’s bright yellow/green color and silver reflective material ensure maximum visibility, even in low-light conditions.
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