Figure 1: Illustration of many shipyard operations that require PPE: Cleaning, Confined Spaces, Hot Work, Painting, and Surface Preparation

The selection of appropriate PPE is based upon the hazard assessment. [29 CFR 1915.152(b)(1)] Procedures for selection of PPE include:

• Identifying the potential hazards.
• Determining the types of protective equipment available for the present hazards.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of the PPE.
• Selecting appropriate protective equipment.
• Providing a variety of sizes to properly fit all users.
• Selecting equipment that is compatible with other PPE.

General Shipyard Worker PPE

Types of general shipyard work personal protective equipment include:

• Head Protection  
• Eye and Face Protection
• Foot Protection
• Hearing Protection  
• Respiratory Protection
• Hand and Body Protection  
• Lifesaving Equipment and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
• Personal Fall Protection Equipment

Specific Operations Requiring Additional PPE

The following specific operations may require additional PPE:

• Cleaning and Other Cold Work
• PPE Selection: Workers in Confined or Enclosed Spaces
• PPE for Testers (See Certified Marine Chemist, Shipyard Competent Person, and Certified Industrial Hygienist)
• Hot Work
• Painting
• Surface Preparation

Note: Confined space entry is one of the leading hazards associated with barge cleaning. Review the Ship Repair: Confined or Enclosed Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres chapter for information on how to protect workers from this hazard.