Promoting the use of personal protective equipment (PPE): Illustration of critical aspects based on an intervention in the real world

Abstract

This work focuses on promoting the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Specifically, it aims to contribute to the discussion of the critical aspects in interventions in this area in a real context. The intervention presented took place in a textile company in Portugal and was designed to increase the usage rate of ear protectors. It was attended by 51 workers who were exposed to levels exceeding 85 dB. After the intervention period, the use rate of hearing protection increased from 21.6% to 86.2%. The case presented aims to illustrate and discuss the relevance of critical level aspects of the intervention in this area, where it highlights the commitment of the administration in addressing the issues of security, employee involvement and approaches based on behaviour and safety culture.