PPE, skin protection, and working safely

Contact dermatitis of the hands

Personal protective equipment (PPE) can be part of safe COSHH practice, but it should not be the first or only control measure. Staff need to know which PPE is required for each task, why it is needed, how to use it correctly, and when to change, clean, or replace it.

Using PPE properly

• Match PPE to the task: choose gloves, aprons, eye protection or other items based on the risk assessment, not on guesswork.
• Do not rely on PPE alone: safer products, containment, and safer systems of work usually provide more reliable protection.
• Know the limits: the wrong glove material, poor fit, or contaminated PPE can give a false sense of security.
• Train staff: they should be able to put PPE on correctly, remove it without contaminating themselves, and maintain it as required.

Skin protection and hand care

Skin damage is a common health effect from hazardous substances in pharmacy settings. Repeated contact with cleaning products, prolonged wet work, or inappropriate glove use can cause irritation or dermatitis.

• Wash chemicals off promptly: remove contamination from the skin without delay.
• Dry hands thoroughly: persistent wetness damages the skin barrier.
• Use gloves correctly: gloves do not replace routine hand care and should not be worn longer than necessary.
• Report skin problems early: itching, cracking, soreness or rash should prompt review of work practices and exposure controls.

General safe working habits

Everyday controls reduce risk: avoid eating or drinking in contaminated areas, follow correct cleaning and spill procedures, limit access to affected zones, and use only products and methods approved locally.

PPE is effective only when appropriate, used correctly, and supported by safer systems of work. Good COSHH practice also depends on skin care, contamination control, and consistent everyday habits.