Safety & PPE Reference Library

Published now

• Respirator Types OverviewAir-purifying vs atmosphere-supplying, tight vs loose fitting, and where each fits in a programRef SP-0101 · Safety-critical
• Glove Cut Levels Explained (ANSI/ISEA 105 vs EN 388)Reading the A1–A9 and A–F cut scales and why old and new scores do not convertRef SP-0109
• Safety Eyewear Markings (ANSI Z87.1)Z87 vs Z87+, D3/D4/D5, U/R/W/L/V/S and X markingsRef SP-0115
• Hearing Protection NRR ExplainedWhat the NRR number means, how it is derated and how to use it for selectionRef SP-0119
• Earmuffs and Cap-Mounted MuffsPassive, electronic level-dependent and communication muffsRef SP-0121
• Hard Hat Types and Classes (ANSI Z89.1)Type I vs Type II, Class G/E/C, reverse donning and accessoriesRef SP-0122
• Safety Helmets vs Traditional Hard HatsChin straps, lateral impact and climbing-style helmetsRef SP-0123
• Bump CapsWhat they are and why they are not head protection under 1910.135Ref SP-0124
• Hi-Vis Apparel Classes (ANSI/ISEA 107)Types O/R/P, Performance Classes 1/2/3/E, colors and garment selectionRef SP-0125
• Safety Footwear Ratings (ASTM F2413)I/C, Mt, EH, PR, SD, CS codes and how to read the labelRef SP-0128
• Hearing Protection Selection ChartNoise level vs protector type, with derating method notedRef SP-0201
• OSHA Permissible Noise Exposure Chart (Table G-16)Hours allowed by sound level under the 5 dB exchange rateRef SP-0202
• Glove Cut Level Wall ChartANSI A1–A9 and EN 388 marking layout side by sideRef SP-0203
• Eyewear Marking Decoder ChartFrame and lens markings on one sheetRef SP-0204
• Hard Hat Type & Class ChartType I/II and Class G/E/C with label location diagramRef SP-0205
• Hi-Vis Class ChartGarment examples for each class and typeRef SP-0206
• Safety Footwear Label DecoderThe F2413 label line by lineRef SP-0207
• GHS Pictogram Chart for PPE RoomsThe nine pictograms and the PPE question each raisesRef SP-0212
• PPE Hazard Assessment MatrixBody part vs hazard grid for the written certificationRef SP-0213
• Glove Size ChartHand circumference and length to sizeRef SP-0214
• How to Measure Hands for Glove SizeCircumference and length methodRef SP-0301
• Hard Hat Suspension Fit and AdjustmentRatchet vs pin-lock, crown clearance, wearing orientationRef SP-0306
• Earplug Fit and InsertionRoll-pull-hold, fit check, individual fit testing systemsRef SP-0307
• Safety Footwear Sizing and WidthLength/width measurement, toe cap clearanceRef SP-0308
• Hi-Vis Garment SizingSizing over outerwear, how fit affects coverageRef SP-0309
• Identifying Hard Hat Date CodesReading the molded date clock and shell markingsRef SP-0310
• Identifying Glove Materials by Look and FeelField tells for nitrile, latex, PVC, PU and coatingsRef SP-0313
• Prescription Eyewear Measuring (PD and Frame Size)Pupillary distance, eye size, bridge, templeRef SP-0316
• Coverall and Suit SizingChest, height and over-clothing allowanceRef SP-0317

Technical Reference

PPE product families, the OSHA PPE rules behind them and the consensus standards they are tested to.

• Respirator Types OverviewAir-purifying vs atmosphere-supplying, tight vs loose fitting, and where each fits in a programRef SP-0101 · Safety-critical
• OSHA Assigned Protection Factors (APF) TableThe 1910.134 APF table by respirator class and facepiece, and how MUC is calculatedComing soon
• NIOSH Particulate Filter Classes (N, R, P / 95, 99, 100)Oil resistance letters, efficiency numbers and service-life limitsComing soon
• Gas & Vapor Cartridge Types and Color CodingCartridge chemistries, combination cartridges and why color is not a substitute for the labelComing soon
• Cartridge Change-Out SchedulesEnd-of-service-life indicators vs data-based change schedulesComing soon
• Filtering Facepiece Respirators (N95) vs Surgical MasksCertification, fit testing and voluntary-use rulesComing soon
• Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPR)Components, battery and airflow checks, hood vs tight-fittingComing soon
• Supplied-Air Respirators & SCBA BasicsAirline vs SCBA, Grade D air, escape provisionsComing soon
• Glove Cut Levels Explained (ANSI/ISEA 105 vs EN 388)Reading the A1–A9 and A–F cut scales and why old and new scores do not convertRef SP-0109
• Chemical-Resistant Glove MaterialsNitrile, neoprene, butyl, PVC, Viton, laminate and how to read permeation dataComing soon
• Disposable Glove Types (Nitrile, Latex, Vinyl)Mil thickness, AQL, exam vs industrial grade, latex allergyComing soon
• Impact-Resistant Gloves (ANSI/ISEA 138)Back-of-hand impact levels and how they are markedComing soon
• Heat & Flame-Resistant GlovesContact heat, convective heat and welding glove ratingsComing soon
• Electrical Insulating Gloves & Leather ProtectorsClass 00–4, Type I/II, color labels, retest intervalsComing soon
• Safety Eyewear Markings (ANSI Z87.1)Z87 vs Z87+, D3/D4/D5, U/R/W/L/V/S and X markingsRef SP-0115
• Goggles vs Safety Glasses vs Face ShieldsWhich device addresses which hazard and why shields are secondary protectionComing soon
• Prescription Safety EyewearFrame and lens marking, OTG options, program considerationsComing soon
• Lens Tints and CoatingsClear, gray, amber, indoor/outdoor, anti-fog, anti-scratch, IR filterComing soon
• Hearing Protection NRR ExplainedWhat the NRR number means, how it is derated and how to use it for selectionRef SP-0119
• Earplug Types (Foam, Pre-Molded, Banded, Custom)Insertion technique, fit testing, reuse and detectable plugsComing soon
• Earmuffs and Cap-Mounted MuffsPassive, electronic level-dependent and communication muffsRef SP-0121
• Hard Hat Types and Classes (ANSI Z89.1)Type I vs Type II, Class G/E/C, reverse donning and accessoriesRef SP-0122
• Safety Helmets vs Traditional Hard HatsChin straps, lateral impact and climbing-style helmetsRef SP-0123
• Bump CapsWhat they are and why they are not head protection under 1910.135Ref SP-0124
• Hi-Vis Apparel Classes (ANSI/ISEA 107)Types O/R/P, Performance Classes 1/2/3/E, colors and garment selectionRef SP-0125
• Flame-Resistant (FR) and Arc-Rated ClothingFR vs AR, ATPV/EBT, flash fire vs arc flashComing soon
• Arc Flash PPE Categories (NFPA 70E)PPE categories, incident energy method vs table methodComing soon
• Safety Footwear Ratings (ASTM F2413)I/C, Mt, EH, PR, SD, CS codes and how to read the labelRef SP-0128
• Metatarsal Guards and OvershoesInternal vs external met guards, slip-on toe capsComing soon
• Slip-Resistant FootwearTest methods, outsole compounds, oily vs wet floorsComing soon
• Personal Fall Arrest System Components (ABCs)Anchorage, body support, connectors and the role of rescueComing soon
• Full-Body Harness Types and ClassesClass A/D/E/L/P attachment points and harness selectionComing soon
• Shock-Absorbing Lanyards vs Self-Retracting DevicesEnergy absorbers, SRD classes, leading-edge rated unitsComing soon
• Anchorage Connectors and Strength RequirementsBeam clamps, cross-arm straps, roof anchors and certified anchoragesComing soon
• Fall Clearance CalculationFree fall, deceleration, harness stretch, D-ring shift and safety marginComing soon
• Fall Restraint vs Fall Arrest vs PositioningWhen each system is allowed and how components differComing soon
• Confined Space Entry EquipmentTripods, winches, retrieval SRLs and attendant gearComing soon
• Portable Gas Detectors (Single and Multi-Gas)Sensor types, alarm setpoints concept, bump testing vs calibrationComing soon
• Emergency Eyewash and Shower StationsPlumbed vs self-contained, location, tepid water, weekly activationComing soon
• First Aid Kit Classes (ANSI Z308.1)Class A vs Class B, kit types I–IV, refill planningComing soon
• Disposable Protective CoverallsParticulate vs splash vs chemical, seam types, Type ratingsComing soon
• Chemical Protective Suits (Level A–D Ensembles)Ensemble levels under HAZWOPER and what each includesComing soon
• Heat Stress PPE (Cooling Vests, Towels, Hydration)Product types and where they fit in a heat illness programComing soon
• Cold Weather PPEInsulated gloves, liners, hard hat liners and layeringComing soon
• Lockout/Tagout DevicesLocks, hasps, valve and breaker lockouts, tag requirementsComing soon
• Safety Signs and Tags (ANSI Z535 / OSHA 1910.145)Signal words, colors and when tags are requiredComing soon
• Dropped Object Prevention (ANSI/ISEA 121)Tool tethers, anchors, holsters and capacity labelsComing soon
• Knee Pads and Ergonomic PPEKnee pad types, anti-vibration gloves, back supportsComing soon

Wall Charts

Printable shop and counter charts for quick PPE selection and identification.

• Hearing Protection Selection ChartNoise level vs protector type, with derating method notedRef SP-0201
• OSHA Permissible Noise Exposure Chart (Table G-16)Hours allowed by sound level under the 5 dB exchange rateRef SP-0202
• Glove Cut Level Wall ChartANSI A1–A9 and EN 388 marking layout side by sideRef SP-0203
• Eyewear Marking Decoder ChartFrame and lens markings on one sheetRef SP-0204
• Hard Hat Type & Class ChartType I/II and Class G/E/C with label location diagramRef SP-0205
• Hi-Vis Class ChartGarment examples for each class and typeRef SP-0206
• Safety Footwear Label DecoderThe F2413 label line by lineRef SP-0207
• Respirator Selection FlowchartHazard → IDLH → oxygen → contaminant → class, with program prerequisitesComing soon
• Cartridge Color Code ChartCommon cartridge label colors as an identification aid onlyComing soon
• Fall Clearance Wall ChartClearance components illustrated, no fixed totalsComing soon
• Harness Inspection ChartWebbing, stitching, hardware and label checksComing soon
• GHS Pictogram Chart for PPE RoomsThe nine pictograms and the PPE question each raisesRef SP-0212
• PPE Hazard Assessment MatrixBody part vs hazard grid for the written certificationRef SP-0213
• Glove Size ChartHand circumference and length to sizeRef SP-0214
• Electrical Glove Class Color ChartClass label colors and use voltage reference to 1910.137Coming soon

Sizing, Fit & Identification

Measuring people for PPE and identifying unknown PPE at the counter.

• How to Measure Hands for Glove SizeCircumference and length methodRef SP-0301
• How to Size a Full-Body HarnessTorso, chest and leg adjustment, weight capacityComing soon
• Respirator Fit Testing: Qualitative vs QuantitativeProtocols, when each is allowed, annual frequencyComing soon
• User Seal ChecksPositive and negative pressure checks and why they are not fit testsComing soon
• Facial Hair and Tight-Fitting RespiratorsWhy seal interference disqualifies tight-fitting facepiecesComing soon
• Hard Hat Suspension Fit and AdjustmentRatchet vs pin-lock, crown clearance, wearing orientationRef SP-0306
• Earplug Fit and InsertionRoll-pull-hold, fit check, individual fit testing systemsRef SP-0307
• Safety Footwear Sizing and WidthLength/width measurement, toe cap clearanceRef SP-0308
• Hi-Vis Garment SizingSizing over outerwear, how fit affects coverageRef SP-0309
• Identifying Hard Hat Date CodesReading the molded date clock and shell markingsRef SP-0310
• Identifying Respirator Approval Labels (TC Numbers)NIOSH approval numbers and the full labelComing soon
• Spotting Counterfeit N95 and Respirator ProductsNIOSH CEL lookup, label errors, red flagsComing soon
• Identifying Glove Materials by Look and FeelField tells for nitrile, latex, PVC, PU and coatingsRef SP-0313
• Identifying Harness and Lanyard LabelsManufacture date, capacity, standard and inspection recordsComing soon
• Identifying Electrical Glove Labels and Test DatesClass color, type, and retest stampComing soon
• Prescription Eyewear Measuring (PD and Frame Size)Pupillary distance, eye size, bridge, templeRef SP-0316
• Coverall and Suit SizingChest, height and over-clothing allowanceRef SP-0317

Ratings & Certifications

Test scores, label codes and certification marks that drive PPE selection.

• ANSI/ISEA 105 Abrasion, Puncture and Needlestick RatingsNon-cut ratings and their test methodsComing soon
• EN 388:2016 Marking ExplainedThe four numbers, two letters and PComing soon
• EN ISO 374 Chemical Glove PictogramsType A/B/C and the chemical letter codesComing soon
• Permeation Breakthrough Time vs DegradationHow to read a chemical resistance chart and its limitsComing soon
• ASTM F2992 vs ISO 13997 Cut TestsTDM-100 method, grams vs newtonsComing soon
• Z87.1 Impact Testing: Basic vs High ImpactWhat the + mark means and how it is testedComing soon
• Optical Radiation Markings (U, R, W, L)Scale numbers on filter lenses and where shade values come fromComing soon
• NRR vs SNR vs Class RatingsUS vs EU vs Canadian hearing protector ratingsComing soon
• Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR)Individual fit-test results vs label NRRComing soon
• Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) and EBTHow arc ratings are derived and printedComing soon
• NFPA 2112 Flash Fire CertificationWhat the certification label requires and what it does not coverComing soon
• ASTM F2413 Electrical Hazard (EH) vs Static Dissipative (SD) vs ConductiveDifferent electrical ratings and why they are not interchangeableComing soon
• Hard Hat Electrical Classes G, E and CTest voltages concept and what Class C meansComing soon
• Hi-Vis Retroreflective and Fluorescent Material RequirementsPerformance concepts, wash durability and label careComing soon
• FR Clothing Labeling RequirementsRequired label content under ASTM F1506 and NFPA 2112Coming soon
• Fall Protection Equipment Certification MarksThird-party certification vs self-declarationComing soon
• CSA vs ANSI Markings for Canadian CustomersGreen triangle, Omega, CSA Z94.3 classesComing soon
• EU CE Marking and PPE Categories I–IIIRegulation (EU) 2016/425 categoriesComing soon
• UL Classification on Gas Detectors and LightingHazardous location ratings on safety electronicsComing soon
• FDA 510(k) for Medical Gloves and MasksWhen PPE crosses into medical device regulationComing soon
• Safety Glasses Anti-Fog Rating (X Marking)What the 2020 anti-fog marking meansComing soon

Hazard Assessment & Failure Analysis

How PPE fails in the field and how to diagnose the cause.

• PPE Hazard Assessment: How to Complete OneWalkthrough, hazard categories, written certificationComing soon
• Hierarchy of Controls and Where PPE FitsElimination to PPE and why PPE is the last lineComing soon
• Why Respirators Fail: Fit, Filter, MaintenanceCommon causes of overexposure while wearing a respiratorComing soon
• Glove Failure ModesCut-through, permeation, degradation, heat and wearComing soon
• Hard Hat Service Life and Replacement CriteriaUV degradation, chalking, impact, manufacturer limitsComing soon
• Harness and Lanyard Removal From ServiceFall-arrest event, damage indicators, competent personComing soon
• Suspension Trauma (Orthostatic Intolerance)Why prompt rescue matters and relief strapsComing soon
• Hearing Protector UnderperformanceWhy real-world attenuation falls below the labelComing soon
• Eyewear Fogging and Non-ComplianceRoot causes and countermeasuresComing soon
• Heat Stress and PPE BurdenHow PPE adds heat load and mitigation optionsComing soon
• FR Clothing Contamination and LaunderingFlammable contaminants, home vs industrial launderingComing soon
• Footwear Failures: Toe Cap, Sole and EH LossWhen to retire safety footwearComing soon
• Gas Detector Failures: Sensor Poisoning and DriftSilicones, H2S, missed bump testsComing soon
• Incident Investigation: Was the PPE Right?A distributor's checklist for post-incident PPE questionsComing soon
• Latex Allergy and Skin ReactionsType I vs Type IV reactions and acceleratorsComing soon

Specification & Program Control

Written programs, approved product lists and standard-revision control.

• Written Respiratory Protection Program ElementsThe required program elements a distributor should knowComing soon
• Hearing Conservation Program ElementsMonitoring, audiometry, training, record keepingComing soon
• Fall Protection Program and Rescue Plan ElementsProgram elements and prompt rescueComing soon
• Building an Approved PPE ListStandardizing SKUs by task and hazardComing soon
• Writing a PPE SpecificationRequired ratings, standard edition, sizes and substitutesComing soon
• Controlling Standard Revisions on Spec SheetsTracking edition years (Z87.1, 105, 107, F2413)Coming soon
• Substitution Rules for PPEWhen a substitute is equivalent and who must approveComing soon
• Employer-Paid PPE RulesWhat employers must pay for and exceptionsComing soon
• PPE Training RequirementsWhat must be trained and retraining triggersComing soon
• Voluntary Respirator Use (Appendix D)What the employer must provide for voluntary useComing soon
• Medical Evaluation for Respirator UseQuestionnaire and PLHCP roleComing soon
• Construction vs General Industry PPE RulesWhere 1926 differs from 1910Coming soon

Procurement & Cost Reduction

Buying, standardizing and cutting PPE spend without cutting protection.

• PPE Cost Per Use AnalysisComparing disposable vs reusable on cost per wearComing soon
• Glove Standardization ProgramsSKU rationalization and trial protocolsComing soon
• Running a PPE Wear TrialTrial design, feedback forms and decision criteriaComing soon
• Disposable Glove Price DriversRaw material, mil weight, box count and freightComing soon
• Private Label vs Brand-Name PPECertification evidence to requestComing soon
• Tariffs, Country of Origin and PPE SourcingCOO marking and supply-risk planningComing soon
• Bulk vs Dispensed PackagingEarplug dispensers, glove boxes and waste reductionComing soon
• Reducing PPE Loss and OveruseIssue control and accountabilityComing soon
• Total Cost of an Injury vs PPE SpendFraming PPE upgrades with incident costComing soon
• Supplier Qualification for PPECertificates, test reports and traceabilityComing soon

Quality, Compliance & Traceability

Lot tracking, recalls, certifications and records for PPE.

• PPE Lot Numbers and TraceabilityWhat lot data to capture at receivingComing soon
• Handling PPE Recalls and Safety NoticesNotification, quarantine and customer communicationComing soon
• NIOSH Certified Equipment List (CEL) LookupsVerifying approvals before quotingComing soon
• Shelf Life and Storage of PPERespirator, glove and harness shelf-life conceptsComing soon
• Certificates of Conformity for PPEWhat a valid certificate containsComing soon
• Inspection Records for Fall ProtectionPre-use vs competent person inspectionsComing soon
• Electrical Glove Retest TrackingRetest intervals and recordsComing soon
• Eyewash Weekly Activation and Annual Inspection LogsRecord-keeping templatesComing soon
• OSHA Record Keeping Basics for Distributors300 log concepts customers ask aboutComing soon
• Customer PPE Compliance AuditsHow distributors support site auditsComing soon

Inventory, VMI & Vending

Stocking, vending and managed inventory for PPE consumables.

• PPE Vending Machines: Setup and Item SelectionMachine types and item-level controlsComing soon
• Min/Max Levels for PPE ConsumablesUsage-based min/max calculationComing soon
• Size Curve Planning for Gloves and ApparelStocking ratios by sizeComing soon
• Point-of-Use DispensersEarplug, glove and wipe dispensersComing soon
• Expiration-Date Rotation (FIFO/FEFO)Rotating dated PPE and first-aid stockComing soon
• First Aid Cabinet Refill ServiceRoute-based refill programsComing soon
• Barcoding and Scanning PPE IssueEmployee-level issue trackingComing soon
• Seasonal PPE PlanningHeat, cold and rain gear forecastingComing soon
• Consignment vs VMI for PPEOwnership, billing and countsComing soon
• Usage Reporting to CustomersKPIs and per-employee consumptionComing soon