Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

DOE-EM-STD-5503-94

3.4.3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE is a common method used in hazard control. Therefore, an entire chapter has been devoted

to this topic. Please refer to Chapter 5 for further guidance on this subject.

3.5. HAZARD ASSESSMENT DOCUMENTATION FORMAT

The information obtained during the Hazard Assessment should be documented in a manner that

readily identifies: the hazards associated with the task, and the controls required to safely carry

out the task. Table 3-1 provides a sample format for documenting the findings of a hazard

assessment. In the sample, the job has been broken down into the various tasks (e.g., set up

equipment, install ladder in tank) required to complete the job. Each hazard associated with a

given task has been identified, and the required control measures are specified.

TABLE 3-1

Sample Hazard Assessment: Cleaning the Inside Surface of a Chemical/Radioactive

Contaminated Tank Top Manhole Entry

Step

Hazard

Controls

1. Select and train

Operator respiratory or heart problems; other

Examination by industrial physician for suitability to work.

operators.

physical limitation.

Train operators. Dry run. (Reference: National Institute for

Untrained operator; failure to perform task.

Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Doc. #80-406)

2. Empty Tank

Gas or liquid in tank.

Approved written operating procedures.

Improper valve line-up.

Empty tank through existing piping.

3. Assess conditions:

Explosive gas.

Obtain work permit signed by safety and maintenance supervisors.

determine what is in the

tank, what process is

Improper oxygen level.

Test air by qualified person.

going on in the tank, and

what hazards these pose.

Chemical exposure.

Ventilate to 19.5% - 23.5% oxygen and less than 10% LEL of any

flammable gas. Steaming inside of tank, flushing and draining,

Gas, dust, vapor:

then ventilating, as previously described, may be required.

irritant

toxic

Provide appropriate respiratory equipment - SCBA or air line

Liquid:

respirator.

irritant

toxic

Provide protective clothing for head, eyes, body and feet.

corrosive

Solid:

Provide parachute harness and lifeline. (Reference: OSHA

irritant

standards 1910.106, 1926.100, 1926.21(b)(6); NIOSH Doc. #80-

corrosive

406)

Radiological exposure, ingestion, contact.

Tanks should be cleaned from outside if possible.

Provide PPE as stated in RADCON Manual.

NOTE: This column should contain specific

information about the material to be

encountered, i.e., chemical/radioactive material

ALARA

name, quantity, anticipated length of exposure,

etc.

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