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CM0 Personal Protective Equipment Management Program 2.15 3.4 Controlling Hazards Associated with PPE Use PPE use can pose potential health and safety hazards, which range from minor discomfort to life- threatening height stroke. The magnitude of the potential hazard can vary and will depend on various factors, including an individual's fitness level, the type of PPE worn, the work demands, individual work practices, duration of work, and environmental conditions. The use of PPE can also lead to reduced efficiency and work performance. Among hazards associated with PPE use, heat stress emerges as a prevalent and significant hazard. Particularly, the use of substantial and/or impermeable attire, such as heavy coveralls, Tyvek suits, splash suits, or Level A or B suits, alongside strenuous work, amplifies the risk of heat stress. Regular monitoring for indications of heat stress is imperative for workers operating in such conditions. Roux's Heat Illness Prevention Program lays out requirements for signs and symptoms as well as preventative measures to mitigate the potential for heat illness. In addition, cold environments can pose adverse risk, such examples include use of non-insulated steel-toe safety shoes in frigid conditions which has the potential to increase the risk of frostbite, while safety gloves worn for chemical protection may inadequately insulate hands from the cold. It is the responsibility of Project Teams to integrate site-specific protocols to manage PPE hazards into such site-specific HASPs. These protocols can encompass considerations like work/rest ratios, crew rotations, and other accommodations for exceptionally demanding conditions. The following measures are recommended for controlling hazards posed by PPE use: • Prioritize through the hierarchy of controls with a focus on elimination, substitution, engineering, work practice and administrative control implementation rather than sole reliance on PPE. PPE shall be considered the last line of worker protection. • Workers should maintain physical fitness to be able to withstand the potential physical strain of PPE use.A physically fit individual will endure less physiological strain, manifesting in a lower heart rate, reduced body temperature (indicating diminished retained body heat), more effective sweating, slightly lower oxygen consumption, and carbon dioxide production. Furthermore, acclimatization to extreme environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, can influence work performance and physical capacity. • Understand the symptoms of PPE failure. Workers encountering any of these symptoms while donning PPE should promptly notify their onsite SHSO and/or SS: o Perception of odors when wearing a respirator o Skin irritation o Acute discomfort o Difficulty breathing o Unusual fatigue o Dizziness o Inability to see, hear, or speak clearly o Uncomfortable restriction of movement o Rapid pulse, nausea, or chest pain • Implement a buddy system. Especially in situations where there is a need for increased level of protection (e.g., Level A-C) workers should work in pairs or teams, and are instructed to monitor the integrity of their team/partners gear and remain alert for symptoms of PPE failure. 03/2025 Corporate Health and Safety Management Program I ROUX 14