Reference/Features

Use of personal protective equipment in a dental practice

7 mins read Risk management
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is exactly what is says; it is designed to protect the person wearing it from outside pathogens/harm that can be picked up in the working environment. This article investigates PPE such as gloves, mask and protective eye wear used in dental practice

In dentistry, we work not only with patients whose medical history is potentially unknown but also with a large amount of hazardous materials that can damage our health.

Risk assessments, health and safety legislation and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, among other things, are designed to help the dental professional remain safe in the working environment. However, if anyone fails to don or even wear personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly, then only the dental professional can be blamed should they be exposed unnecessarily to harmful pathogens or dangerous substances.

PPE is seen as the last resort in the chain of protection when used in conjunction with risk assessments and other control measures.

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