As Critical as the Minerals you Mine
Your workers deserve PPE that works as hard as they do, and that enables them to do their jobs with confidence. And because PPE is the last line of protection, and it is only effective when worn properly 100% of the time, it should also be confortable and easy to use.
With a comprehensive health and safety program enhanced by PPE and support resources from 3M, you can help your teams stay safe. With our broad portfolio of solutions, industry knowledge and support resources, we know what it takes to help you select the proper PPE.
PPE can only do its job when it is worn properly, 100% of the time. Wear time is the percentage of time a worker actually wears their required PPE vs. the amount of time they should wear it to achieve the Assigned Protection Factor (APF). Learn more about the importance of improving wear time here.
Hearing protection is an essential element of nearly all occupational hearing conservation programs. Learn more about hearing conservation as well as tools and products 3M offers.
In the US more than 23% of reported occupational silicosis deaths are attributed to mining. Worldwide, one of the most common work-related injuries is pneumoconiosis, specifically caused by exposure to Respirable Crystaline Silica (RCS).
Certain 3M™ Versaflo™ PAPR systems combine a high respiratory protection factor with the integration of the other elements of individual protection including hearing, eyes, face and head – all in a single system. This next-level PPE solution in turn may enable higher wear time thanks to a combination of comfort, compatibility, breathability, and fit.
With the presence of elevated platforms, open pits, and steep slopes, miners are exposed to the potential hazards of falls, which can result in severe injuries or fatalities. This includes the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points, as well as entry and exit system for confined spaces or special equipment for maintenance processes.
Mining equipment generates noise that requires a high level of attenuation, without sacrificing environmental listening. Clear communication is a critical component of worker safety. Typically, workers need to use a radio, talk with partners and be able to hear alarms. In addition, excessive noise exposure can cause noise induced hearing loss.
Fit testing (or fit validation) is a procedure to help verify the PPE selected is providing the expected level of protection. Fit can have a significant impact on protection, therefore, fit testing is a best practice and often is required by standards and regulations.
A comprehensive guide for mining worker health and safety solutions from 3M.
Learn more about the mining process, risks, and worker health and safety solutions.
3M offers a variety of tools, courses, seminars and software to support your PPE safety training needs.
Need it now? No matter how busy your schedule, 3M can help you increase your knowledge of PPE and related workplace health and safety topics.
Find in-depth information about respiratory, hearing, fall protection and more in our Digital Training Library.