Using PPE to Create Safer Environments

The conversation begins by defining PPE and its applicability in Safer STEM classrooms and lab environments. PPE is a term many people first learned about during the pandemic. However, science instructors and administrators know it is a cornerstone of keeping students safer in the laboratory. 

As stated in previous conversations and numerous published articles on edCircuit and elsewhere, Safer STEM classrooms must implement and follow safety guidelines. A holistic safety guideline includes engineering controls, administrative protocols, and, very importantly, personal protective equipment. 

Reducing Contact to Laboratory Hazards

Dr. Ken opens by discussing the three different hazards that PPE can help protect students from. These potential hazards include: 

1. Biological– spores, pollen, bacteria, etc
2. Chemical– acids, alkaline, etc.
3. Physical– glassware, springs, projectiles, etc.

Each of these hazards has specific PPE associated with it. Knowing these hazards lets educators and students know how to effectively use PPE in the classroom or laboratory environments. As an example, Dr. Ken discuss the difference between safety glasses and safety goggles. As they point out, safety glasses can protect students from chemical splash hazards but not protect them from physical dangers such as the shattering of glassware.

PPE Legal and Professional Safety Standards

In the second part of the episode, our guest discusses the legal and professional safety standards regarding PPE, including the three major kinds of protective gear and proper maintenance for each. 

Types of PPE

The three major areas that need protection in a STEM laboratory environment are: 

1. Eye-protective goggles and glasses are used to protect against issues. Proper upkeep for these includes UV cleaning for biological hazards and washing for chemical and physical hazards.
2. Gloves, (not made of latex due to allergic challenges) protect the hands from biological, chemical, and physical hazards. Proper maintenance includes proper diligence that the gloves do not have any tears or rips and are properly washed.
3. Aprons/Coats protect against chemical and physical hazards to the body. Their proper maintenance is regular laundering and anti-absorption treatment.

Budgetary Constraints & Teacher Training

The episode closes with a great discussion on PPE-based budgetary constraints and teacher training. 

Dr. Ken Roy leaves us with a great piece of advice: “If the teacher believes something is unsafe without PPE, you have two choices: you either flip to another activity that doesn’t require the PPE, or you say ‘sorry principal, my class is not doing the hands-on work because we do not have the proper safety protocols in place including the appropriate PPE.’”