Importance of using individual and collective protective equipment for accident prevention

Abstract

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to devices intended for personal use, whose function is to minimize certain types of accidents and offer protection against certain diseases that may arise due to the work environment. This equipment should be used when collective protection measures are not sufficient to eliminate the risks. Occupational accident is defined as any event related to professional practice that results in bodily injury, functional disorder or disease, which may cause death or loss, total or partial, temporary or permanent, of the ability to work.

Despite the presence of several risks in the work environment, the lack of consistency in the use of PPE continues to be one of the main factors that aggravate the severity of work accidents. PPE is extremely important for workers, as they allow them to carry out their activities safely, without compromising their health and physical integrity. Failure to use PPE can result in disastrous consequences, not only for the worker, but also for the employer and society in general. This is due to the increased incidence of occupational diseases and occupational accidents, resulting in negative economic and social impacts.