How to get help in an emergency
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that personal protective equipment (PPE) be selected, provided and worn by employees in situations where PPE could help reduce the potential for harm and injury (29 CFR 1910.132). This guide outlines the likely situations and hazards that require the use of PPE in maintenance, repair, construction and demolition activities by Dartmouth College employees.
Special considerations apply for certain tasks (such as welding) done by qualified individuals. PPE is readily available to Dartmouth College employees through their supervisors and EHS. Because PPE standards change, please contact EHS for help in application and selection.
Safety glasses are required when operating with or near power tools, lawn equipment and industrial machinery. Safety glasses are required when drilling, hammering, grinding, chipping, sawing or cutting. Wear safety glasses during all demolition work.
Wear safety goggles when pouring, mixing or using caustic chemicals (any chemical labeled as corrosive). All safety eyewear must meet ANSI Z87.
Hardhats are required on all construction and demolition sites. Hard hats are required in the power plant and other mechanical spaces where there is a possibility of striking or being struck. Additionally, Class E (electrical) hard hats must be worn when electrical hazards are commonly encountered. All hard hats must meet ANSI Z89.
Safety shoes are required when having to move heavy equipment or objects, such as drums. Safety shoes are also required on all construction and demolition projects. All safety footwear must meet Z41.
Cuts and other hand injuries are the most common type of accident in maintenance tasks at Dartmouth. Varieties of gloves are available for safely handling glass, metal and chemicals are available in the tool crib. Leather gloves and cut resistant-coated Kevlar are required when handling sharp objects. Nitrile gloves are suitable for common cleaning and lubricating chemicals. When in doubt, protect your hands.
Respirators may only be worn by participants in the DC Respiratory Protection Program.
Hearing protection must be worn in all areas posted as noise areas. All noisy operations including lawn and snow removal equipment require hearing protection. Medical surveillance is conducted for employees in high noise locations through EHS.
