Industry

Guide

25
A Guide to
Personal Protective
Equipment

N.C. Department of Labor

N.C. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Division
1101 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
Cherie Berry
Commissioner of Labor

N.C. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Program
Cherie Berry
Commissioner of Labor
OSHA State Plan Designee
Allen McNeely
Deputy Commissioner for Safety and Health
Kevin Beauregard
Assistant Deputy Commissioner for Safety and Health
Ed Lewis
Reviewer

Acknowledgments
This edition of A Guide to Personal Protective Equipment is primarily adapted from USDOL/OSHA publication
3151Personal Protective Equipment. Some parts are also based on an earlier edition written by Ed Mendenhall,
owner of Mendenhall Technical Services in Bloomington, Ill. Original material from the N.C. Department of Labor
also has been added. The information in this guide was updated in 2013.
This guide is intended to be consistent with all existing OSHA standards; therefore, if an area is considered by the
reader to be inconsistent with a standard, then the OSHA standard should be followed.

To obtain additional copies of this guide, or if you have questions about N.C. occupational safety and health standards or
rules, please contact:
N.C. Department of Labor
Education, Training and Technical Assistance Bureau
1101 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
Phone: 919-807-2875 or 1-800-625-2267

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Additional sources of information are listed on the inside back cover of this guide.

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The projected cost of the NCDOL OSH program for federal fiscal year 20122013 is $18,073,694. Federal funding provides approximately 30.5 percent ($5,501,500)
of this total.

Revised 6/13

Contents
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1iiv
Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1ivi
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iiv1
The Requirement for Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iiv1
The Hazard Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iiv2
Selecting Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iiv2
Training Employees in the Proper Use of Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iiv3
Payment for Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iiv4
Eye and Face Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iiv4
Prescription Lenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iiv4
Eye Protection for Exposed Workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii14
Types of Eye Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii15
Welding Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii16
Laser Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii18
Head Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii19
Types of Hard Hats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii19
Size and Care Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii10
Hard Hat Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii10
Foot and Leg Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii11
Special Purpose Shoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii12
Foundry Shoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii12
Care of Protective Footwear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii12
Hand and Arm Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii12
Types of Protective Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii12
Leather, Synthetic Fiber or Metal Mesh Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii13
Fabric and Coated Fabric Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii13
Chemical Protective Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii14
Rubber Insulating Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii18
Care of Protective Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii18
Body Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii18
Hearing Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii19
Other Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii21
Cooling Vests and Suits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii21
High Visibility Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii21
Flotation Vests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii21
Welding and High Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii21
List of Tables
Table 1: Filter Lenses for Protection Against Radiant Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii17
Table 2: Construction Industry Requirements for Filter Lens Shade Numbers
for Protection Against Radiant Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii18
Table 3: Selecting Laser Safety Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii18
Table 4: Chemical Resistance Selection Chart for Protective Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii15
Table 5: Permissible Noise Exposures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii19
Appendix A: NCDOL Standards That Require PPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii22
iii

Foreword
We all know that the best way to avoid dangerous working conditions is to engineer them out of the workplace or to
establish rules that keep employees from committing risky job practices. But sometimes, there is simply no way for a
worker to avoid spending time in a dangerous atmosphere, doing a job in a loud environment, or being exposed to other
conditions that could cause an occupational injury or illness.
Those are the times when a worker must depend on personal protective equipment to protect his or her health. This
guide explains how to determine what PPE is needed in a typical workplace and then looks at many different types of
equipment.
In North Carolina, the N.C. Department of Labor enforces the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act through
a state plan approved by the U.S. Department of Labor. NCDOL offers many educational programs to the public and
produces publications to help inform people about their rights and responsibilities regarding occupational safety and
health.
When reading this guide, please remember the mission of the N.C. Department of Labor is greater than just regulatory
enforcement. An equally important goal is to help citizens find ways to create safe workplaces. Everyone profits when
managers and employees work together for safety. This booklet, like the other educational materials produced by the
N.C. Department of Labor, can help.
Cherie Berry
Commissioner of Labor

Note
The goal of this booklet is to assist in providing a safe and healthful workplace. Words used in this publication such as
must, shall, required and necessary indicate requirements under OSHA standards. Procedures indicated by
should, may, suggested and recommended constitute generally accepted good occupational safety and health
practices.
Much of the PPE information in this guide is framed in general terms and is intended to complement relevant regulations and manufacturers requirements. For more specific information, refer to the OSHA standards in Title 29, Code of
Federal Regulations, Parts 19001999. In some instances, the standards referenced in this guide refer to specifications by
the American National Standards Institute and the American Society for Testing and Materials.
This guide does not attempt to cover every PPE issue and topic. For example, respiratory protection is not covered in
this book. Other guides in this series cover specific PPE-related topics in a more detailed manner, for example, A Guide to
Developing and Maintaining an Effective Hearing Conservation Program and A Guide to Fall Prevention in Industry.
(Consult back inside cover for a listing.) Finally, this guide is intended to be consistent with federal and state OSHA standards; however, if an area is considered by the reader to be inconsistent with a standard, then the standard should be followed.

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Introduction
Hazards exist in every workplace in many different forms: sharp edges, falling objects, flying sparks, chemicals, noise
and a myriad of other potentially dangerous situations. The N.C. Department of Labors (NCDOL) Occupational Safety
and Health Division requires that employers protect their employees from workplace hazards that can cause injury.
Controlling a hazard at its source is the best way to protect employees. Depending on the hazard and workplace conditions, the employer may be required to use engineering or work practice controls first to manage or eliminate hazards to
the greatest extent possible. For example, building a barrier between the hazard and the employees is an engineering control; changing the way in which employees perform their work is a work practice control.
When engineering, work practice and administrative controls are not feasible or do not provide sufficient protection,
employers must provide personal protective equipment to their employees and ensure its use. Personal protective equipment, commonly referred to as PPE, is equipment worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards. Examples of PPE
include such items as gloves, foot and eye protection, protective hearing devices (earplugs, muffs), hard hats, respirators
and full body suits.
This guide will help both employers and employees do the following:
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Understand the types of PPE.

Know the basics of conducting a hazard assessment of the workplace.
Select appropriate PPE for a variety of circumstances.
Understand what kind of training is needed in the proper use and care of PPE.

The information in this guide is general in nature and does not address all workplace hazards or PPE requirements. The
information, methods and procedures in this guide are based on the requirements for PPE as set forth in the Code of
Federal Regulations (CFR) at 29 CFR 1910.132 (General requirements); 29 CFR 1910.133 (Eye and face protection); 29
CFR 1910.135 (Head protection); 29 CFR 1910.136 (Foot protection); 29 CFR 1910.137 (Electrical protective equipment);
29 CFR 1910.138 (Hand protection); and regulations that cover the construction industry, NCDOL state specific standard
13 NCAC 07F. 0202; 29 CFR 1926.95 (Criteria for personal protective equipment); 29 CFR 1926.96 (Occupational foot
protection); 29 CFR 1926.100 (Head protection); 29 CFR 1926.101 (Hearing protection); and 29 CFR 1926.102 (Eye and
face protection); and for the maritime industry at 29 CFR 1915.152 (General requirements); 29 CFR 1915.153 (Eye and
face protection); 29 CFR 1915.155 (Head protection); 29 CFR 1915.156 (Foot protection); and 29 CFR 1915.157 (Hand
and body protection).
This guide does not address PPE requirements related to respiratory protection (29 CFR 1910.134). There is a brief
discussion of hearing protection in this guide, but users should refer to Industry Guide 15, A Guide to Developing and
Maintaining an Effective Hearing Conservation Program.

The Requirement for Personal Protective Equipment

To ensure the greatest possible protection for employees in the workplace, the cooperative efforts of both employers
and employees will help in establishing and maintaining a safe and healthful work environment.
In general, employers are responsible for:
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Performing a hazard assessment of the workplace to identify and control physical and health hazards.
Identifying and providing appropriate PPE for employees.
Training employees in the use and care of the PPE.
Maintaining PPE, including replacing worn or damaged PPE.
Periodically reviewing, updating and evaluating the effectiveness of the PPE program.
Paying for PPE.

In general, employees should:

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Properly wear PPE.

Attend training sessions on PPE.
Care for, clean and maintain PPE.
Inform a supervisor of the need to repair or replace PPE.

Specific requirements for PPE are presented in many different standards, published in Title 29 of the Code of Federal
Regulations (29 CFR).
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The Hazard Assessment

The first critical step in developing a comprehensive safety and health program is to identify physical and health hazards in the workplace. This process is known as a hazard assessment. Potential hazards may be physical or health-related, and a comprehensive hazard assessment should identify hazards in both categories. Examples of physical hazards
include moving objects, fluctuating temperatures, high intensity lighting, rolling or pinching objects, electrical connections, and sharp edges. Examples of health hazards include exposure to harmful dusts, chemicals or radiation.
The hazard assessment should begin with a walk-through survey of the facility to develop a list of potential hazards in
the following basic hazard categories:
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Impact
Penetration
Compression (roll-over)
Chemical
Heat/cold
Harmful dust
Light (optical) radiation,
Biological

In addition to noting the basic layout of the facility and reviewing any history of occupational illnesses or injuries,
things to look for during the walk-through survey include:
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Sources of electricity.
Sources of motion such as machines or processes where movement may exist that could result in an impact between
personnel and equipment.
Sources of high temperatures that could result in burns, eye injuries or fire.
Types of chemicals used in the workplace.
Sources of harmful dusts.
Sources of light radiation, such as welding, brazing, cutting, furnaces, heat treating, high intensity lights.
The potential for falling or dropping objects.
Sharp objects that could poke, cut, stab or puncture.
Biological hazards such as blood or other potentially infectious material.

When the walk-through is complete, the employer should organize and analyze the data so that it may be efficiently
used in determining the proper types of PPE required at the worksite. The employer should become aware of the different
types of PPE available and the levels of protection offered. It is definitely a good idea to select PPE that will provide a
level of protection greater than the minimum required to protect employees from hazards.
The workplace should be periodically reassessed for any changes in conditions, equipment or operating procedures that
could affect occupational hazards. This periodic reassessment should also include a review of injury and illness records to
spot any trends or areas of concern and taking appropriate corrective action. The suitability of existing PPE, including an
evaluation of its condition and age, should be included in the reassessment.
Documentation of the hazard assessment is required through a written certification that includes the following
information:
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Identification of the workplace evaluated.

Name of the person conducting the assessment.
Date of the assessment.
Identification of the document certifying completion of the hazard assessment.

Selecting Personal Protective Equipment

All PPE clothing and equipment must be of safe design and construction and should be maintained in a clean and
reliable fashion. Employers should take the fit and comfort of PPE into consideration when selecting appropriate
items for their workplace. PPE that fits well and is comfortable to wear will encourage employee use of PPE. Most
protective devices are available in multiple sizes, and care must be taken to select the proper size for each employee.
2

If several different types of PPE are worn together, make sure they are compatible. If PPE does not fit properly, it can
make the difference between being safely covered or dangerously exposed. It may not provide the level of protection
desired and may discourage employee use.
NCDOL requires that many categories of PPE meet or be equivalent to standards developed by the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI). ANSI has been preparing safety standards since the 1920s, when the first safety standard was
approved to protect the heads and eyes of industrial workers. Employers who need to provide PPE in the categories listed
below must make certain that any new equipment procured meets the cited ANSI standard. The employer may also
demonstrate that the protective devices in use are at least as effective as PPE constructed in accordance with one of the
listed consensus standards. Employers should inform employees who provide their own PPE of the employers selection
decisions and ensure that any employee-owned PPE used in the workplace conforms to the employers criteria, based on
the hazard assessment, NCDOL requirements and ANSI standards. NCDOL requires PPE to meet the following ANSI
standards:
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Eye and Face Protection: ANSI Z87.1-2003, ANSI Z87.1-1989 (R-1998) or ANSI Z87.1-1989 (the American
National Standard Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection) for the general and maritime
industries. The construction industry requires eye and face protection equipment to meet the requirements specified
in ANSI Z87.1-1968, Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection.
Head Protection: ANSI Z89.1-2009, ANSI Z89.1-2003 (the American National Standard for Industrial Head
Protection) or ANSI Z89.1-1997 (American National Standard for Personnel ProtectionProtective Headwear for
Industrial WorkersRequirements) for the general and maritime industries. The construction industry requires helmets used for the protection of employees against impact and penetration of falling and flying objects to meet the
specifications contained in ANSI Z89.1-1969 (Safety Requirements for Industrial Head Protection). Helmets for the
head protection of employees exposed to high voltage electrical shock and burns must meet the specifications contained in ANSI Z89.2-1971.
Foot Protection: ASTM F-2412-2005 (Standard Test Methods for Foot Protection) and ASTM F-2413-2005
(Standard Specification for Performance Requirements for Protective Footwear), ANSI Z41-1999 or ANSI Z411991 (American National Standard for Personal ProtectionProtective Footwear) for the general and maritime
industries. Protective footwear used in the construction industry must meet the requirements and specifications in
American National Standard for Men's Safety-Toe Footwear, Z41.1-1967.*

For hand protection, there is no ANSI standard for gloves but the standard requires that selection be based upon the
tasks to be performed and the performance and construction characteristics of the glove material. For protection against
chemicals, glove selection must be based on the chemicals encountered, the chemical resistance and the physical properties of the glove material.

Training Employees in the Proper Use of

Personal Protective Equipment
Employers are required to train each employee who must use PPE. Employees must be trained to know at least the
following:
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When PPE is necessary.

What PPE is necessary.
How to properly put on, take off, adjust and wear the PPE.
The limitations of the PPE.
Proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal of PPE.

Employers must make sure that all employees demonstrate an understanding of the PPE training as well as the ability
to wear and use PPE properly before they are allowed to perform work requiring the use of the PPE. If an employer
believes that a previously trained employee is not demonstrating the proper understanding and skill level in the use of
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*Note: ANSI Z41-1991 replaced ANSI Z41.1-1967. ANSI Z41-1991 was then superseded by ASTM F2412-05, Standard Test Methods for Foot
Protection, and F2413-05, Standard Specification for Performance Requirements for Foot Protection. For the construction industry, NCDOL will
accept foot protection designed in accordance with the ASTM standards, current ANSI standards (Z41-1999 or 1991) as well as existing foot protection designed in accordance with ANSI Z41.1 as stated above.

PPE, that employee must receive retraining. Other situations that require additional training or retraining of employees
include the following circumstances: changes in the workplace or in the type of required PPE that make prior training
obsolete.

Payment for Personal Protective Equipment

On Nov. 15, 2007, OSHA promulgated a final rule titled Employer Payment for Personal Protective Equipment. This
final rule applies to all industry groups (29 CFR Parts 1910, 1915, 1917, 1918, and 1926). In this rulemaking, OSHA is
requiring employers to pay for personal protective equipment where the use of the PPE is required to protect the employee from a work-related hazard. The final rule includes several exceptions for certain items specified in the standard.
NCDOL adopted these rules verbatim with the same effective date and payment requirement date as OSHA.

Eye and Face Protection

Employees can be exposed to a large number of hazards that pose danger to their eyes and face. NCDOL requires
employers to ensure that employees have appropriate eye or face protection if they are exposed to eye or face hazards
from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapors, potentially infectious material, or potentially harmful light radiation.
Many occupational eye injuries occur because workers are not wearing any eye protection, while others result from
wearing improper or poorly fitting eye protection. Employers must be sure that their employees wear appropriate eye and
face protection and that the selected form of protection is appropriate to the work being performed and properly fits each
worker exposed to the hazard.

Prescription Lenses
Everyday use of prescription corrective lenses will not provide adequate protection against most occupational eye and
face hazards, so employers must make sure that employees with corrective lenses either wear eye protection that incorporates the prescription into the design or wear additional eye protection over their prescription lenses. It is important to
ensure that the protective eyewear does not disturb the proper positioning of the prescription lenses so that the employees
vision will not be inhibited or limited. Also, employees who wear contact lenses must wear eye or face PPE when working in hazardous conditions.

Eye Protection for Exposed Workers

NCDOL suggests that eye protection be routinely considered for use by carpenters, electricians, machinists, mechanics,
millwrights, plumbers and pipe fitters, sheet metal workers and tinsmiths, assemblers, sanders, grinding machine operators, sawyers, welders, laborers, chemical process operators and handlers, and timber cutting and logging workers.
Employers of workers in other job categories should decide whether there is a need for eye and face PPE through a hazard
assessment.
Examples of potential eye or face injuries include:
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Dust, dirt, metal or wood chips entering the eye from activities such as chipping, grinding, sawing, hammering, the
use of power tools or even strong wind forces.
Chemical splashes, mists and vapors from corrosive substances, hot liquids, solvents or other hazardous solutions
contacting the eye from activities such as degreasing and electroplating.
Objects swinging into the eye or face, such as tree limbs, chains, tools or ropes.
Radiant energy from welding, harmful rays from the use of lasers or other radiant light (as well as heat, glare,
sparks, splash and flying particles).

Types of Eye Protection

Selecting the most suitable eye and face protection for employees should take into consideration the following
elements:
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Ability to protect against specific workplace hazards.

Should fit properly and be reasonably comfortable to wear.
Should provide unrestricted vision and movement.
Should be durable and cleanable.
Should allow unrestricted functioning of any other required PPE.

The eye and face protection selected for employee use must clearly identify the manufacturer. Eye and face protective
devices used in the general and maritime industries must comply with ANSI Z87.1-2003, ANSI Z87.1-1989 (R-1998) or
ANSI Z87.1-1989. Eye and face protective devices that the employer demonstrates are at least as effective as devices that
are constructed in accordance with one of the above consensus standards will be acceptable. Eye and face protective
devices used in the construction industry must comply with ANSI Z87.1-1968.
An employer may choose to provide one pair of protective eyewear for each position rather than individual eyewear for
each employee. To minimize or eliminate the potential for employees to contract infectious diseases from contaminated
surfaces, the employer should make sure that employees disinfect shared protective eyewear after each use. Care should
be taken when cleaning and sanitizing the protective eyewear so as not to damage any protective coatings. Protective eyewear with corrective lenses may only be used by the employee for whom the corrective prescription was issued and may
not be shared among employees.
Some of the most common types of eye and face protection include the following:
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Safety spectacles/glasses. These protective eyeglasses have safety frames constructed of metal or plastic and
impact-resistant lenses. Side shields are available on some models. Safety glasses should not be used for protection
against chemical splashes, mists or vapors.
Goggles. These are tight-fitting eye protection that completely cover the eyes, eye sockets and the facial area immediately surrounding the eyes and provide protection from impact, dust, mists, vapors and splashes. Goggles with
direct ventilation typically are used for impact hazards and dusts, not for protection against chemical splashes or
vapors. Goggles with indirect ventilation are used for protection from dusts and splash hazards. Goggles with no
ventilation provide protection from dusts, splashes, mists and vapors. Goggles with foam or cloth padding should
not be used for chemical splash protection. Some goggles will fit over corrective lenses.
Welding shields. Constructed of vulcanized fiber or fiberglass and fitted with a filtered lens, welding shields protect
eyes from burns caused by infrared or intense radiant light; they also protect both the eyes and face from flying
sparks, metal spatter and slag chips produced during welding, brazing, soldering and cutting operations. The filter
lens shade number must be appropriate to protect against the specific hazards of the work being performed. (See
Tables l and 2.)
Laser safety goggles. These specialty goggles protect against intense concentrations of light produced by lasers.
The type of laser safety goggles an employer chooses will depend upon the equipment and operating conditions in
the workplace. (See Table 3.)
Face shields. These protective devices shield the employees face and eyes from various hazards. Face shields are
typically used to provide protection from dust, liquid splash and spray hazards. The face shield windows are available in a variety of materials, shapes, thickness, shades and tints, depending on their particular application.
Commonly available windows are transparent sheets of plastic or wire screen. Some are polarized for glare protection. The face shield windows are designed to extend from the eyebrows to below the chin and across the entire
width of the employees head.
Note: Face shields shall be used only in conjunction with spectacles or goggles, providing a higher level of protection to the employees face and eyes.

Each type of protective eyewear is designed to protect against specific hazards. Employers can identify the specific
workplace hazards that threaten employees eyes and faces by completing a hazard assessment as outlined in the earlier
section. It is important during the selection process to remember that different product categories are tested at different
levels of impact resistance. Figure 1 shows a variety of eye and face PPE.

Figure 1
Eye and Face Protection Devices

A.

E.
Spectacle, No Sideshield

B.

I.
Spectacle,
Non-Removeable Lens

Cover Goggle,
Direct Ventilation

F.

Spectacle, Half Sideshield

C.

J.
Spectacle, Lift Front

D.

K.
Cover Goggle,
No Ventilation

Welding Helmet, Hand Held

P.
Cup Goggle,
Indirect Ventilation

H.
Spectacle,
Detachable Sideshield

Faceshield

O.
Cup Goggle,
Direct Ventilation

G.

Spectacle, Full Sideshield

N.

L.
Cover Goggle,
Indirect Ventilation

Q.
Spectacle,
Headband Temple

*The illustrations shown are only representative of protective devices

commonly available at the time of the writing of this standard.
Protective devices do not need to take the forms shown, but must
meet the requirements of the standard.

Welding Helmet,
Stationary Window

Welding Helmet, Lift Front

M.
Cover Welding Goggle,
Indirect Ventilation

Welding Operations
The intense light associated with welding operations can cause serious and sometimes permanent eye damage if operators do not wear proper eye protection. The intensity of light or radiant energy produced by welding, cutting or brazing
operations varies according to a number of factors including the task producing the light, the electrode size and the arc
current. The following table shows the minimum protective shades for a variety of welding, cutting and brazing operations in general industry and in the shipbuilding industry.

Table 1
Filter Lenses for Protection Against Radiant Energy
Electrode Size in 1/32"
(0.8 mm)

Arc Current

Minimum*
Protective Shade

<3
35
58
>8

<60
60160
160250
250550

7
8
10
11

Gas metal arc welding and flux cored arc welding

<60
60160
160250
250550

7
10
10
10

Gas tungsten arc welding

<50
50150
150500

8
8
10

Operations
Shielded metal arc welding

Air carbon

(light)

<500

10

Arc cutting

(heavy)

5001,000

11

<20
20100
100400
400800

6
8
10
11

<300
300400
400800

8
9
10

Plasma arc welding

Plasma arc cutting

(light)**
(medium)**
(heavy)**

Torch brazing

Torch soldering

Carbon arc welding

14

Filter Lenses for Protection Against Radiant Energy

Plate Thickness
inches

Plate Thickness
mm

Minimum*
Protective Shade

<1/8

<3.2

18 12

//

3.212.7

Gas wleding: Heavy

>1/2

>12.7

Oxygen cutting: Light

<1

<25

Oxygen cutting: Medium

16

25150

Oxygen cutting: Heavy

>6

>150

Operations
Gas welding: Light
Gas welding: Medium

*As a rule of thumb, start with a shade that is too dark to see the weld zone. Then go to a lighter shade
which gives sufficient view of the weld zone without going below the minimum. In oxyfuel gas welding
or cutting where the torch produces a high yellow light, it is desirable to use a filter lens that absorbs
the yellow or sodium line in the visible light of the (spectrum) operation.
**These values apply where the actual arc is clearly seen. Experience has shown that lighter filters may
be used when the arc is hidden by the workpiece.
Source: 29 CFR 1910.133(a)(5).

The construction industry has separate requirements for filter lens protective levels for specific types of welding operations, as indicated in Table 2 below.
Table 2
Construction Industry Requirements for Filter Lens Shade Numbers for Protection Against Radiant Energy
Welding Operation

Shade Number

Shielded metal-arc welding

/16-, 3/32-, 1/8-, 5/32-inch diameter electrodes

10

Gas-shielded arc welding (nonferrous)

/16-, 3/32-, 1/8-, 5/32-inch diameter electrodes

11

Gas-shielded arc welding (ferrous)

/16-, 3/32-, 1/8-, 5/32-inch diameter electrodes

12

Shielded metal-arc welding

/16-, 7/32-, 1/4-inch diameter electrodes

12

3
5

/16-, /8-inch diameter electrodes

14

Atomic hydrogen welding

1014

Carbon-arc welding

14

Soldering

Torch brazing

3 or 4

Light cutting, up to 1 inch

3 or 4

Medium cutting, 1 to 6 inches

4 or 5

Heavy cutting, more than 6 inches

5 or 6

Gas welding (light), up to /8-inch

4 or 5

Gas welding (medium), 1/8- to 1/2-inch

5 or 6

Gas welding (heavy), more than 1/2-inch

6 or 8

Source: 29 CFR 1926.102(b)(1).

Laser Operations
Laser light radiation can be extremely dangerous to the unprotected eye and direct or reflected beams can cause permanent eye damage. Laser retinal burns can be painless, so it is essential that all personnel in or around laser operations wear
appropriate eye protection.
Laser safety goggles should protect for the specific wavelength of the laser and must be of sufficient optical density for
the energy involved. Safety goggles intended for use with laser beams must be labeled with the laser wavelengths for
which they are intended to be used, the optical density of those wavelengths and the visible light transmission.
Table 3 lists maximum power or energy densities and appropriate protection levels for optical densities 5 through 8.
Table 3
Selecting Laser Safety Glass
Attenuation

Intensity, CW maximum power

density (watts/cm2)

Optical density
(O.D.)

Attenuation
factor

10

10-

10

1.0

10

10.0

10

10-

Source: 29 CFR 1926.102(b)(2).

Head Protection
Protecting employees from potential head injuries is a key element of any safety program. A head injury can impair an
employee for life or it can be fatal. Wearing a safety helmet or hard hat is one of the easiest ways to protect an employees
head from injury. Hard hats can protect employees from impact and penetration hazards as well as from electrical shock
and burn hazards.
Employers must ensure that their employees wear head protection if any of the following apply:
l
l
l

Objects might fall from above and strike them on the head.
They might bump their heads against fixed objects, such as exposed pipes or beams.
There is a possibility of accidental head contact with electrical hazards.

Some examples of occupations in which employees should be required to wear head protection include construction
workers, carpenters, electricians, linemen, plumbers and pipe fitters, timber and log cutters, welders, among many others.
Whenever there is a danger of objects falling from above, such as working below others who are using tools or working
under a conveyor belt, head protection must be worn. Hard hats must be worn with the bill forward to protect employees
properly.
In general, protective helmets or hard hats should do the following:
l
l
l
l

Resist penetration by objects.

Absorb the shock of a blow.
Be water-resistant and slow burning.
Have clear instructions explaining proper adjustment and replacement of the suspension and headband.

Hard hats must have a hard outer shell and a shock-absorbing lining that incorporates a headband and straps that suspend the shell from 1 to 11/4 inches (2.54 cm to 3.18 cm) away from the head. This type of design provides shock absorption during an impact and ventilation during normal wear.
Protective headgear must meet ANSI Z89.1-2003, ANSI Z89.1-1997 or ANSI Z89.1-1986 for the general and maritime industries. The construction industry requires helmets used for the protection of employees against impact and penetration of falling and flying objects to meet the specifications contained in ANSI Z89.1-1969, and helmets for the head
protection of employees exposed to high voltage electrical shock and burns must meet the specifications contained in
ANSI Z89.2-1971.

Types of Hard Hats

There are many types of hard hats available in the marketplace today. In addition to selecting protective headgear that
meets ANSI standard requirements, employers should ensure that employees wear hard hats that provide appropriate protection against potential workplace hazards. It is important for employers to understand all potential hazards when making
this selection, including electrical hazards. This can be done through a comprehensive hazard assessment and an awareness of the different types of protective headgear available.
Hard hats are classified according to the specific impact (types) and electrical performance requirements they are
designed to meet (classes). All helmets will meet either Type I or Type II requirements and then shall be further classified
by class.
l

Type I. Helmets intended to reduce the force of impact resulting from a blow only to the top of the head (vertical
impact).

Type II. Helmets intended to reduce the force of impact resulting from a blow that may be received off center (side
impact) or to the top of the head.

Note: ANSI Z89.1-1997 eliminated the old Type 1 and Type II (full brim vs. no encircling brim) design designations.
ANSI Z89.1-1986 specified the helmet classes as A, B and C. The 1997 ANSI standard (Z89.1-1997) changed these helmet classes to G, E and C.
l

Class G (General). Class G helmets are intended to reduce the danger of contact exposure to low-voltage conductors. Test samples are proof-tested at 2,200 volts (phase to ground).

l
l

Class E (Electrical). Class E helmets provide the highest level of protection against electrical hazards, with highvoltage shock and burn protection. Test samples are proof-tested at 20,000 volts (phase to ground).
Class C (Conductive). Class C helmets are not intended to provide protection against contact with electrical conductors.
Note: Proof-test voltages for Class G and E helmets are not intended to be an indication of the voltage at which the
headgear protects the wearer, but only the level at which they are tested.

Another class of protective headgear on the market is called a bump hat, designed for use in areas with low head
clearance. Bump hats are recommended for areas where protection is needed from head bumps and lacerations. They are
not designed to protect against falling or flying objects and are not ANSI approved.
It is essential to check the type of hard hat employees are using to ensure that the equipment provides appropriate protection. Each hat must bear a label inside the shell that lists the manufacturer, the ANSI designation, the date of manufacture, the type and class of the hat, and the approximate headband size range.

Size and Care Considerations

Head protection that is either too large or too small is inappropriate for use, even if it meets all other requirements.
Protective headgear must fit appropriately on the body and for the head size of each individual. Most protective headgear
comes in a variety of sizes with adjustable headbands to ensure a proper fit (many adjust in 18-inch increments). A proper
fit should allow sufficient clearance between the shell and the suspension system for ventilation and distribution of an
impact. The hat should not bind, slip, fall off or irritate the skin.
Periodic cleaning and inspection will extend the useful life of protective headgear. A daily inspection of the hard hat
shell, suspension system and other accessories for holes, cracks, tears or other damage that might compromise the protective value of the hat is essential. Paints, paint thinners and some cleaning agents can weaken the shells of hard hats and
may eliminate electrical resistance. Consult the helmet manufacturer for information on the effects of paint and cleaning
materials on their hard hats. Never drill holes, paint or apply labels to protective headgear as this may reduce the integrity
of the protection. Do not store protective headgear in direct sunlight, such as on the rear window shelf of a car, since sunlight and extreme heat can damage them.
Hard hats with any of the following defects should be removed from service and replaced:
l
l

Perforation, cracking, or deformity of the brim or shell;

Indication of exposure of the brim or shell to heat, chemicals, or ultraviolet light and other radiation (such as chalking, flaking or loss of surface gloss).

Always replace a hard hat if it sustains an impact, even if damage is not noticeable. Suspension systems are offered as
replacement parts and should be replaced when damaged or when excessive wear is noticed. It is not necessary to
replace the entire hard hat when deterioration or tears of the suspension systems are noticed.
Some protective headgear allows for the use of various accessories to help employees deal with changing environmental conditions, such as slots for earmuffs, safety glasses, face shields and mounted lights. Optional brims may provide
additional protection from the sun and some hats have channels that guide rainwater away from the face. Protective
headgear accessories must not compromise the safety elements of the equipment.

Hard Hat Accessories

Faceshield Protection
Faceshield devices can be attached to the helmet without changing the helmet strength and electrical protection. A
metal faceshield bracket system can be used on a Class G helmet; however, if a Class E helmet is to be used in an area
where Class E protection is required, a type of bracket and shield system that will not conduct electricity (has a dielectric
rating) should be used.
Ear Muffs
The required degree of hearing protection should be considered prior to selecting ear muff attachments. If ear muffs are
to be attached to helmets, metal attachments are acceptable for Class G helmets. Attachments with a dielectric rating must
be used for Class E helmets.
10

Sweat Bands
If sweat bands are necessary, they must not interfere with the effectiveness of the helmet headband system. Some
sweatband devices are made to fit on the headband. For electrical work, metal components must not be used to attach
sweat bands to helmets.
Winter Liners
There are many varieties of winter liners. One type fits over the hard hat assembly. It is flame retardant and elasticized
to give the user a snug, warm fit. Other styles fit under the helmet. If the liner is to be used with a Class E helmet, it must
have a dielectric rating. Regardless of the warmth characteristics, the liner and helmet combination should be compatible.
The liner and helmet must fit properly to give the employee proper impact and penetration protection.
Chin Straps
When wind or other conditions present the possibility of the hard hat being accidentally removed from the head, chin
straps can be used. If chin straps are used, they should be the type that fastens to the shell of the hard hat. If the chin
straps fasten to the headband and suspension system, the shell may blow off and strike another employee.

Foot and Leg Protection

Employees who face possible foot or leg injuries from falling or rolling objects or from crushing or penetrating materials must wear protective footwear. Also, employees whose work involves exposure to hot substances or corrosive or poisonous materials must have protective gear to cover exposed body parts, including legs and feet. If an employees feet
may be exposed to electrical hazards, nonconductive footwear must be worn. On the other hand, workplace exposure to
static electricity may necessitate the use of conductive footwear.
Examples of situations in which an employee may be required to wear foot and/or leg protection include:
l
l
l
l
l

When heavy objects such as barrels or tools might roll onto or fall on the employees feet.
Working with sharp objects such as nails or spikes that could pierce the soles or uppers of ordinary shoes.
Exposure to molten metal that might splash on feet or legs.
Working on or around hot, wet or slippery surfaces.
Working when electrical hazards are present.

Safety footwear must comply with any of the following consensus standards for the general and maritime industries:
ASTM F-2412-2005 and ASTM F-2413-2005 or the ANSI minimum compression and impact performance standards in
ANSI Z41-1999 or ANSI Z41-1991, or provide equivalent protection. Safety toe footwear for employees in the construction industry must meet the requirements and specifications in American National Standard for Mens Safety-Toe
Footwear, Z41.1-1967.*
Foot and leg protection choices include the following:
l
l

Leggings protect the lower legs and feet from heat hazards such as molten metal or welding sparks. Safety snaps
allow leggings to be removed quickly.
Metatarsal guards protect the instep area from impact and compression. Made of aluminum, steel, fiber or plastic,
these guards may be strapped to the outside of shoes. Footwear designed to newer versions of ANSI Z41 and the
ASTM standards require metatarsal protection to be built into the footwear.
Toe guards fit over the toes of regular shoes to protect the toes from impact and compression hazards. They may be
made of steel, aluminum or plastic.
Note: ANSI Z41-1991 requires the toe box be incorporated into the footwear during construction and shall be an
integral part of the footwear. An employer who chooses to provide employees with toe guards must demonstrate that
they are as equally protective as the ANSI Z41-1991 standard.
Combination foot and shin guards protect the lower legs and feet, and may be used in combination with toe
guards when greater protection is needed.

__________
*Note: ANSI Z41-1991 replaced ANSI Z41.1-1967. ANSI Z41-1991 was then superseded by ASTM F2412-05, Standard Test Methods for Foot
Protection, and F2413-05, Standard Specification for Performance Requirements for Foot Protection. For the construction industry, NCDOL will
accept foot protection designed in accordance with the ASTM standards, current ANSI standards (Z41 1999 or 1991) as well as existing foot protection designed in accordance with ANSI Z41.1 as stated above.

11

Safety shoes have impact-resistant toes and heat-resistant soles that protect the feet against hot work surfaces common in roofing, paving and hot metal industries. The metal insoles of some safety shoes protect against puncture
wounds. Safety shoes may also be designed to be electrically conductive to prevent the buildup of static electricity in
areas with the potential for explosive atmospheres or nonconductive to protect workers from workplace electrical
hazards.

Special Purpose Shoes

Electrically conductive shoes provide protection against the buildup of static electricity. Employees working in explosive and hazardous locations such as explosives manufacturing facilities or grain elevators must wear conductive shoes to
reduce the risk of static electricity buildup on the body that could produce a spark and cause an explosion or fire. Foot
powder should not be used in conjunction with protective conductive footwear because it provides insulation, reducing
the conductive ability of the shoes. Silk, wool and nylon socks can produce static electricity and should not be worn with
conductive footwear. Conductive shoes must be removed when the task requiring their use is completed. Note:
Employees exposed to electrical hazards must never wear conductive shoes.
Electrical hazard, safety-toe shoes are nonconductive and will prevent the wearers feet from completing an electrical
circuit to the ground. These shoes can protect against open circuits of up to 600 volts in dry conditions and should be used
in conjunction with other insulating equipment and additional precautions to reduce the risk of a worker becoming a path
for hazardous electrical energy. The insulating protection of electrical hazard, safety-toe shoes may be compromised if the
shoes become wet, the soles are worn through, metal particles become embedded in the sole or heel, or workers touch
conductive grounded items. Note: Nonconductive footwear must not be used in explosive or hazardous locations.

Foundry Shoes
In addition to insulating the feet from the extreme heat of molten metal, foundry shoes keep hot metal from lodging in
shoe eyelets, tongues or other shoe parts. These snug-fitting leather or leather-substitute shoes have leather or rubber soles
and rubber heels. All foundry shoes must have built-in safety toes.

Care of Protective Footwear

As with all protective equipment, safety footwear should be inspected prior to each use. Shoes and leggings should be
checked for wear and tear at reasonable intervals. This includes looking for cracks or holes, separation of materials, broken buckles or laces. The soles of shoes should be checked for pieces of metal or other embedded items that could present
electrical or tripping hazards. Employees should follow the manufacturers recommendations for cleaning and maintenance of protective footwear.

Hand and Arm Protection

If a workplace hazard assessment reveals that employees face potential injury to hands and arms that cannot be eliminated through engineering and work practice controls, employers must ensure that employees wear appropriate protection. Potential hazards include skin absorption of harmful substances, chemical or thermal burns, electrical dangers, bruises, abrasions, cuts, punctures, fractures and amputations. Protective equipment includes gloves, finger guards, and arm
coverings or elbow-length gloves.
Employers should explore all possible engineering and work practice controls to eliminate hazards and use PPE to provide additional protection against hazards that cannot be completely eliminated through other means. For example,
machine guards may eliminate a hazard. Installing a barrier to prevent workers from placing their hands at the point of
contact between a table saw blade and the item being cut is another example of an engineering control.

Types of Protective Gloves

There are many types of gloves available today to protect against a wide variety of hazards. The nature of the hazard
and the operation involved will affect the selection of gloves. The variety of potential occupational hand injuries makes
selecting the right pair of gloves challenging. NCDOL is unaware of any gloves that provide protection against all potential hand hazards. It is essential that employees use gloves specifically designed for the hazards and tasks found in their
12

workplace because gloves designed for one function may not protect against a different function even though they may
appear to be an appropriate protective device.
The following are examples of some factors that may influence the selection of protective gloves for a workplace.
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l

Type of chemicals handled (toxic properties of the chemical(s)).

Chemical concentration and temperature (the higher the concentration and temperature, the shorter the breakthrough
time).
Nature of contact (total immersion, continual contact, splash, etc.)
Duration of contact.
Area requiring protection (hand only, forearm, arm).
Degree of dexterity (fine motor work).
Grip requirements (dry, wet, oily).
Thermal protection.
Size and comfort.
Abrasion/cut resistance requirements.
Other job hazards (such as biological, electrical, and radiation hazards).
Gloves made from a wide variety of materials are designed for many types of workplace hazards. In general, gloves
fall into four groups:
l Gloves made of leather, synthetic fibers or metal mesh.
l Fabric and coated fabric gloves.
l Chemical protective gloves.
l Insulating rubber gloves (See 29 CFR 1910.137, Electrical Protective Equipment, for detailed requirements on
the selection, use and care of insulating rubber gloves).

Leather, Synthetic Fiber or Metal Mesh Gloves

Sturdy gloves made from metal mesh, leather or canvas provide protection against cuts and burns. Leather or canvas
gloves also protect against sustained heat.
l
l
l

l
l

Leather gloves protect against sparks, moderate heat, blows, chips and rough objects. These gloves can be used for
tasks such as welding.
Aluminized gloves provide radiant heat protection by reflection and insulate/reduce heat conduction with a liner or
insert. Employees working with molten materials would benefit from this type of glove.
Aramid fiber gloves such as Kevlar, protect against heat, are cut- and abrasion-resistant and wear well. Employees
working in jobs such as firefighting, automotive work, metal fabrication, glass and ceramic handling would benefit
from this type of glove.
Synthetic gloves of various materials offer protection against heat and cold, are cut- and abrasion-resistant and may
withstand some diluted acids. These materials do not stand up against alkalis and solvents.
Metal mesh hand, wrist, arm and finger protective wear protects against knife cuts; however, it offers very little, if
any, protection against punctures. Plastic dots can be adhered to the metal mesh to facilitate gripping.

Fabric and Coated Fabric Gloves

Fabric and coated fabric gloves are made of cotton or other fabric to provide varying degrees of protection.
l
l

Fabric gloves protect against dirt, slivers, chafing and abrasions. They do not provide sufficient protection for use
with rough, sharp or heavy materials. Adding a plastic coating will strengthen some fabric gloves.
Coated fabric gloves are normally made from cotton flannel with napping on one side. By coating the unnapped side
with plastic, fabric gloves are transformed into general-purpose hand protection offering slip-resistant qualities. These
gloves are used for tasks ranging from handling bricks and wire to chemical laboratory containers. When selecting
gloves to protect against chemical exposure hazards, always check with the manufacturer or review the manufacturers product literature to determine the gloves effectiveness against specific workplace chemicals and conditions.

13

Chemical Protective Gloves

Chemical protective gloves are made with different kinds of rubber: natural, butyl, neoprene, nitrile and fluorocarbon
(Viton); or various kinds of plastic: polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinyl alcohol and polyethylene. These materials can be
blended or laminated for better performance. As a general rule, the thicker the glove material, the greater the chemical
resistance, but thick gloves may impair grip and dexterity, having a negative impact on safety. Different glove materials
resist different chemicals, and glove compatibility can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Select the glove material
that is most resistant to the chemicals being used.
Some examples of chemical-resistant gloves include:
l

Butyl gloves are made of a synthetic rubber and protect against a wide variety of chemicals, such as peroxide, rocket fuels, highly corrosive acids (nitric acid, sulfuric acid, hydrofluoric acid and red-fuming nitric acid), strong bases,
alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, esters and nitro compounds. Butyl gloves also resist oxidation, ozone corrosion and
abrasion, and remain flexible at low temperatures. Butyl rubber does not perform well with aliphatic and aromatic
hydrocarbons and halogenated solvents.
Natural (latex) rubber gloves are comfortable to wear, which makes them a popular general-purpose glove. They
feature outstanding tensile strength, elasticity and temperature resistance. In addition to resisting abrasions caused
by grinding and polishing, these gloves protect workers hands from most water solutions of acids, alkalis, salts and
ketones. Latex gloves have caused allergic reactions in some individuals and may not be appropriate for all employees. Hypoallergenic gloves, glove liners and powderless gloves are possible alternatives for workers who are allergic
to latex gloves.
Neoprene gloves are made of synthetic rubber and offer good pliability and finger dexterity, and are high density
and tear resistant. They protect against hydraulic fluids, gasoline, alcohols, organic acids and alkalis. They generally
have chemical and wear resistance properties superior to those made of natural rubber.
Nitrile gloves are made of a copolymer and provide protection from chlorinated solvents such as trichloroethylene
and perchloroethylene. Although intended for jobs requiring dexterity and sensitivity, nitrile gloves stand up to
heavy use even after prolonged exposure to substances that cause other gloves to deteriorate. They offer protection
when working with oils, greases, acids, caustics and alcohols but are generally not recommended for use with strong
oxidizing agents, aromatic solvents, ketones and acetates.

Additionally, choosing the most appropriate/compatible glove material is further complicated for tasks involving a
mixture of chemicals. OSHA recommends in section 11(C) of the non-mandatory Appendix B to Subpart I, Guidelines for
Hazard Assessment and Personal Protective Equipment Selection, For mixtures and formulated products (unless specific
test data are available), a glove should be selected on the basis of the chemical component with the shortest breakthrough
time, since it is possible for solvents to carry active ingredients through polymeric materials.
The following table from the U.S. Department of Energy (Occupational Safety and Health Technical Reference
Manual) rates various gloves as being protective against specific chemicals and will help you select the most appropriate
gloves to protect your employees. The ratings are abbreviated as follows: VG: Very Good; G: Good; F: Fair; P: Poor (not
recommended). Chemicals marked with an asterisk (*) are for limited service.

14

Table 4
Chemical Resistance Selection Chart for Protective Gloves
Chemical

Neoprene

Latex/Rubber

Butyl

Nitrile

Acetaldehyde*

VG

VG

Acetic acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

Amyl acetate*

Aniline

Benzaldehyde*

Benzene*

Butyl acetate

Butyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Carbon disulfide

Carbon tetrachloride*

Castor oil

VG

Chlorobenzene*

Chloroform*

Chloronaphthalene

Chromic acid (50%)

VG

VG

VG

VG

Cyclohexanol

VG

Dibutyl phthalate*

Diesel fuel

VG

Diisobutyl ketone

Dimethylformamide

Dioctyl phthalate

VG

Dioxane

VG

Epoxy resins, dry

VG

VG

VG

VG

Ethyl acetate*

Ethyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Ethyl ether*

VG

VG

Ethylene glycol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Formaldehyde

VG

VG

VG

VG

Acetone*
Ammonium hydroxide

Citric acid (10%)

Ethylene dichloride*

15

Table 4 (continued)
Chemical Resistance Selection Chart for Protective Gloves
Chemical

Neoprene

Latex/Rubber

Butyl

Nitrile

VG

VG

VG

VG

Freon 11

Freon 12

Freon 21

Freon 22

Furfural*

Gasoline, leaded

VG

Gasoline, unleaded

VG

Glycerin

VG

VG

VG

VG

Hexane

Hydrazine (65%)

Hydrochloric acid

VG

Hydrofluoric acid (48%)

VG

Hydrogen peroxide (30%)

Hydroquinone

Isooctane

VG

Kerosene

VG

VG

Ketones

VG

VG

Lacquer thinners

Lactic acid (85%)

VG

VG

VG

VG

Lauric acid (36%)

VG

VG

VG

Lineolic acid

VG

Linseed oil

VG

VG

Maleic acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

Methyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Methylamine

Methyl bromide

Methyl chloride*

Methyl ethyl ketone*

VG

Methyl isobutyl ketone*

VG

Methyl methacrylate

VG

Monoethanolamine

VG

VG

VG

Moxpholine

VG

VG

VG

Naphthalene

Napthas, aliphatic

VG

VG

Napthas, aromatic

Formic acid

16

Table 4 (continued)
Chemical Resistance Selection Chart for Protective Gloves
Chemical

Neoprene

Latex/Rubber

Butyl

Nitrile

Nitric acid*

Nitric acid, red and white fuming

Nitromethane (95.5%)*

Nitropropane (95.5%)

Octyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Oleic acid

VG

VG

Oxalic acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

Palmitic acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

Perchloric acid (60%)

VG

Perchloroethylene

Petroleum distillates (naphtha)

VG

Phenol

VG

Phosphoric acid

VG

VG

VG

Potassium hydroxide

VG

VG

VG

VG

Propyl acetate

Propyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Propyl alcohol (iso)

VG

VG

VG

VG

Sodium hydroxide

VG

VG

VG

VG

Styrene

Styrene (100%)

Sulfuric acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

Tetrahydrofuran

Toluene*

Toluene diisocyanate (TDI)

Trichloroethylene*

Triethanolamine (85%)

VG

VG

Tung oil

VG

VG

Turpentine

VG

Xylene*

Tannic acid (65%)

Note: When selecting chemical-resistant gloves, be sure to consult the manufacturers

recommendations, especially if the gloved hand(s) will be immersed in the chemical.

17

Rubber Insulating Gloves

Employers must make certain that rubber devices to protect against electrical shock are appropriately selected. Rubber
insulating gloves that meet the requirements of ASTM D120 are considered appropriate to comply with NCDOL standards. These gloves are available to meet different voltage exposures. Lightweight low voltage gloves are for use on voltages under 1,000. Gloves for use on high voltage are of thicker material for the dielectric strength. As the use voltage rating increases so does the glove weight. Rubber gloves must be visually inspected and an air test must be performed
before they are used. Electrical protective equipment must be subjected to periodic electrical tests. Test voltages and the
maximum intervals between tests must be in accordance with the appropriate OSHA standards.

Care of Protective Gloves

Protective gloves should be inspected before each use to ensure that they are not torn, punctured or made ineffective in
any way. A visual inspection will help detect cuts or tears, but a more thorough inspection by filling the gloves with water
and tightly rolling the cuff towards the fingers will help reveal any pinhole leaks. Gloves that are discolored or stiff may
also indicate deficiencies caused by excessive use, age or degradation from chemical exposure.
Any gloves with impaired protective ability must be discarded and replaced. Reuse of chemical-resistant gloves should
be evaluated carefully, taking into consideration the absorptive qualities of the gloves. A decision to reuse chemically
exposed gloves should take into consideration the toxicity of the chemicals involved and factors such as duration of exposure, storage and temperature.

Body Protection
Employees who face possible bodily injury of any kind that cannot be eliminated through engineering, work practice
or administrative controls, must wear appropriate body protection while performing their jobs. In addition to cuts and
radiation, the following are examples of workplace hazards that could cause bodily injury:
l
l
l
l

Temperature extremes
Hot splashes from molten metals and other hot liquid
Potential impacts from tools, machinery and materials
Hazardous chemicals

There are many varieties of protective clothing available for specific hazards. Employers are required to ensure that
their employees wear personal protective equipment only for the parts of the body exposed to possible injury. Examples
of body protection include laboratory coats, coveralls, vests, jackets, aprons, surgical gowns and full body suits. Full body
suits can be further classified into fully encapsulating suits, non-encapsulating suits, firefighters protective clothing,
proximity or approach clothing, blast or fragmentation suits, and radiation protective suits. All of which would necessitate
the use of protective boots, gloves and hoods as well.
If a hazard assessment indicates a need for full body protection against toxic substances or harmful physical agents, the
clothing must be carefully inspected before each use, it must fit each worker properly and it must function properly and
for the purpose for which it is intended. Totally encapsulating chemical protective suits must be capable of maintaining
positive air pressure and preventing inward test gas leakage of more than 0.5 percent.
Protective clothing comes in a variety of materials, each effective against particular hazards, such as:
l
l
l
l
l

Paper-like fiber is used for disposable suits provide protection against dust and splashes.
Treated wool and cotton adapts well to changing temperatures, is comfortable and fire-resistant, and protects
against dust, abrasions and rough and irritating surfaces.
Duck is a closely woven cotton fabric that protects against cuts and bruises when handling heavy, sharp or rough
materials.
Leather is often used to protect against dry heat and flames.
Rubber, rubberized fabrics, neoprene and plastics protect against certain chemicals and physical hazards. When
chemical or physical hazards are present, check with the clothing manufacturer to ensure that the material selected
will provide protection against the specific hazard.

18

As with chemical protective gloves, the selection of appropriate chemical protective clothing involves a variety of factors. Examples of factors that influence the selection include: the type of chemicals handled, the physical environment
(site hazards), duration of contact, nature of contact (total immersion, splash, vapor or gas), PPE use and the accommodation of other selected ensemble equipment, decontamination and disposal, and limitations during temperature extremes,
heat stress and other medical considerations.

Hearing Protection
Determining the need to provide hearing protection for employees can be challenging. Employee exposure to excessive
noise depends upon a number of factors, including:
l
l
l

The loudness of the noise as measured in decibels (dB).

The duration of each employees exposure to the noise.
Whether employees move between work areas with different noise levels. Whether noise is generated from one or
multiple sources.

Generally, the louder the noise, the shorter the exposure time before hearing protection is required. For instance,
employees may be exposed to a noise level of 90 dB for 8 hours per day (unless they experience a Standard Threshold
Shift) before hearing protection is required. On the other hand, if the noise level reaches 115 dB, hearing protection is
required if the anticipated exposure exceeds 15 minutes.
For a more detailed discussion of the requirements for a comprehensive hearing conservation program, see Industry
Guide 15, A Guide to Developing and Maintaining an Effective Hearing Conservation Program, or refer to the standard
at 29 CFR 1910.95, Occupational Noise Exposure, paragraph (c).
Table 5 shows the permissible noise exposures that require hearing protection for employees exposed to occupational
noise at specific decibel levels for specific time periods. Noises are considered continuous if the interval between occurrences of the maximum noise level is one second or less. Noises not meeting this definition are considered impact or
impulse noises (loud momentary explosions of sound) and exposures to this type of noise must not exceed 140 dB.
Examples of situations or tools that may result in impact or impulse noises are powder-actuated nail guns, a punch press
or drop hammers.
Table 5
Permissible Noise Exposures

Duration per day,

in hours

Sound level
in Db*

90

92

95

97

100

11/2

102

105

/2

110

/4 or less

115

*When measured on the A scale of a

standard sound level meter at slow
response.
Source: 29 CFR 1910.95, Table G-16.

19

If engineering and work practice controls do not lower employee exposure to workplace noise to acceptable levels,
employees must wear appropriate hearing protection. It is important to understand that hearing protectors reduce only the
amount of noise that gets through to the ears. The amount of this reduction is referred to as attenuation, which differs
according to the type of hearing protection used and how well it fits. Hearing protectors worn by employees must reduce
an employees noise exposure to within the acceptable limits noted in Table 5. Refer to Appendix B of 29 CFR 1910.95,
Occupational Noise Exposure, for detailed information on methods to estimate the attenuation effectiveness of hearing
protectors based on the devices noise reduction rating (NRR). Manufacturers of hearing protection devices must display
the devices NRR on the product packaging. If employees are exposed to occupational noise at or above 85 dB averaged
over an eight-hour period, the employer is required to institute a hearing conservation program that includes regular testing of employees hearing by qualified professionals. Refer to 29 CFR 1910.95(c) for a description of the requirements
for a hearing conservation program. Figure 2 shows four types of hearing protection.
Figure 2
Types of Hearing Protection

Formable foam earplugs

expand to fit ear canals of
different sizes and shapes.

Earmuffs cover the ear to

block out noise.

Preformed earplugs may

come in from one to five
sizes to fit different ear
canals.

Semi-aural HPDs or canal caps are

convenient for brief periods of
noise exposures.

Some types of hearing protection include:

l

Earplugs are inserted into the ear canal to provide a seal against the canal walls. Formable foam or rolldown
earplugs are rolled between the fingers to compress them for proper fit. They can be made from polyvinyl chloride
or polyurethane. Preformed earplugs are made of flexible vinyl materials and come in different sizes. Custom molded earplugs are made from impressions of the individual employees car canal.

Semiaurals or banded earplugs are small stoppers that seal against the entrance to the ear canal by force of a band
worn under the chin or behind the neck. They typically provide less protection than earplugs or earmuffs. They are
most suitable for short-term use, as they are less comfortable than other devices.

Earmuffs enclose the entire external ears inside rigid cups. The inside of the cup is filled with acoustic foam, and
the perimeter of the cup is fitted with a cushion that seals against the head around the ear by force of the headband.
Glasses, facial hair, long hair or facial movements such as chewing may reduce the protective value of earmuffs.
20

Helmets or Hard Hats with either built in or attached hearing protection are not typically used in industrial settings
but are common in the logging industry, the military and in recreational sports.

Other Personal Protective Equipment

Cooling Vests and Suits
Personal cooling vests and suits are available for wear in operations involving extreme heat conditions. One design
requires the use of a supplied air system. The air enters the vest or coverall through a tube in which it is cooled by as
much as 40 degrees. The cooled air is channeled out over the upper torso and around the neck area when only the vest is
being used. When the coverall or full body cooling type of PPE is used, the cooling air is also channeled to the leg and
arm areas.
There is also a type of body cooling system that does not require an electrical, air or water supply. This vest is made of
durable flame-resistant cotton shell fabric. Sewn underneath the outer shell are layers of light metallic insulation that
reflect radiant heat outward and cooling inward toward the body. Pouch-like areas are accessible for quick and easy
installation of segmented, semi-frozen gel cooling packets. These gel packs, often referred to as plastic ice, provide
approximately twice the cooling effect of the same volume of water ice. The gel packs will not leak, even if punctured.
They can be refrozen overnight in an ordinary freezer.
Other systems use supplied cooling air and a manifold system of tubes to channel the cool air to the body extremities.
Outer surfaces are frequently made of aluminum or other heat-reflective material, depending on the type and source of the
heat conditions.

High Visibility Apparel

High visibility apparel must be used by workers involved in traffic control, such as flaggers or law enforcement officers, or for employees who work on the roadways, such as sanitation, utility or construction workers, and emergency
responders. The apparel should be high visibility orange, yellow, yellow-green or a fluorescent version. Apparel can be
procured with reflective and/or luminescent trim, or vertical or horizontal stripes, which offers greater day and night visibility. ANSI/ISEA 107 provides guidance for the selection of high visibility apparel. Additionally, in 29 CFR 1926.201,
Signaling, warning apparel used by flaggers must conform to Part VI of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
(1988 Edition, Revision 3 or the Millennium Edition.)

Flotation Vests
NCDOL standard 29 CFR 1926.106(a) requires that employees working over or near water, where the danger of
drowning exists, be provided with approved life jackets or buoyant work vests. These vests are available as flotation pads
inside high visibility international orange nylon shells or as vinyl coated flotation pads of international orange. The flotation vests must be U.S. Coast Guard approved.
Additionally, in any other workplace where employees work over or near water, or use boats, appropriate approved life
jackets, buoyant work vests or other flotation devices must be provided.

Welding and High Heat

Coveralls, jackets, pants and aprons are available for operations involving high heat or molten metal splashes. Leather
is the traditional protective material for many welding operations. Where there is exposure to radiant heat as well as
molten metal splashes, aluminized garments may be used. They reflect up to 95 percent of the radiant heat. Flame-resistant cotton coveralls designed for comfort as well as protection are sometimes preferred. Whatever the type of clothing
used for welding operations, it should not have external pockets or cuffs. Fabrics of silica, ceramic and fiberglass eliminate the need for asbestos and are now available for welding operations. These fabrics are available in many combinations
of color and weight. The fabrics are functional over a temperature range of 700 to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

21

Appendix A: NCDOL Standards That Require PPE

29 CFR 1910: General Industry
1910.261 Pulp, paper, and paperboard mills
1910.262 Textiles
1910.268 Telecommunications
1910.269 Electric power generation, transmission and
distribution
1910.333 Selection and use of work practices (Electrical)
1910.335 Safeguards for personnel protection (Electrical)
1910.1000 Air contaminants
1910.1001 Asbestos
1910.1003 13 carcinogens, etc.
1910.1017 Vinyl chloride
1910.1018 Inorganic arsenic
1910.1025 Lead
1910.1026 Chromium (VI)
1910.1027 Cadmium
1910.1028 Benzene
1910.1029 Coke oven emissions
1910.1030 Bloodborne pathogens
1910.1043 Cotton dust
1910.1044 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane
1910.1045 Acrylonitrile
1910.1047 Ethylene oxide
1910.1048 Formaldehyde
1910.1050 Methylenedianiline
1910.1051 1,3-Butadiene
1910.1052 Methylene chloride
1910.1096 Ionizing radiation
1910.1450 Occupational exposure to chemicals in
laboratories

1910.28 Safety requirements for scaffolding

1910.66 Powered platforms for building maintenance
1910.67 Vehicle-mounted elevating and rotating work
platforms
1910.94 Ventilation
1910.95 Occupational noise exposure
1910.119 Process safety management of highly hazardous
chemicals
1910.120 Hazardous waste operations and emergency
response
1910.132 General requirements (personal protective
equipment)
1910.133 Eye and face protection
1910.134 Respiratory protection
1910.135 Head protection
1910.136 Foot protection
1910.137 Electrical protective equipment
1910.138 Hand protection
1910.146 Permit-required confined spaces
1910.156 Fire brigades
1910.157 Portable fire extinguishers
1910.160 Fixed extinguishing systems, general
1910.183 Helicopters
1910.218 Forging machines
1910.242 Hand and portable powered tools and
equipment, general
1910.243 Guarding of portable powered tools
1910.252 General requirements (Welding, cutting and
brazing)

29 CFR 1915: Shipyard Employment

1915.12 Precautions and the order of testing before entering confined and enclosed spaces and other dangerous atmospheres
1915.13 Cleaning and other cold work
1915.32 Toxic cleaning solvents
1915.34 Mechanical paint removers
1915.35 Painting
1915.51 Ventilation and protection in welding, cutting and
heating
1915.73 Guarding of deck openings and edges

1915.77 Working surfaces

1915.135 Powder actuated fastening tools
1915.154 Respiratory protection
1915.155 Head protection
1915.156 Foot protection
1915.157 Hand and body protection
1915.158 Lifesaving equipment
1915.159 Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS)
1915.1001 Asbestos
1915.1026 Chromium (VI)

29 CFR 1917: Marine Terminals

1917.22 Hazardous cargo
1917.25 Fumigants, pesticides, insecticides and hazardous
preservatives
1917.26 First aid and lifesaving facilities
1917.91 Eye and face protection
1917.92 Respiratory protection

1917.93 Head protection

1917.94 Foot protection
1917.95 Other protective measures
1917.126 River banks
1917.152 Welding, cutting and heating (hot work)
1917.154 Compressed air

22

29 CFR 1926: Construction

1926.52 Occupational noise exposure
1926.57 Ventilation
1926.60 Methylenedianiline
1926.62 Lead
1926.64 Process safety management of highly hazardous
chemicals
1926.65 Hazardous waste operations and emergency
response
1926.95 Criteria for personal protective equipment
1926.96 Occupational foot protection
1926.100 Head protection
1926.101 Hearing protection
1926.102 Eye and face protection
1926.103 Respiratory protection
1926.104 Safety belts, lifelines and lanyards
1926.105 Safety nets
1926.106 Working over or near water
1926.250 General requirements for storage
1926.300 General requirements (Hand and power tools)
1926.302 Power-operated hand tools
1926.304 Woodworking tools

1926.353 Ventilation and protection in welding, cutting

and heating
1926.354 Welding, cutting and heating in way of preservative coatings
1926.416 General requirements (Electrical)
1926.451 General requirements (Scaffolds)
1926.453 Aerial lifts
1926.501 Duty to have fall protection
1926.502 Fall protection systems criteria and practices
1926.550 Cranes and derricks
1926.551 Helicopters
1926.701 General requirements (Concrete and masonry
construction)
1926.760 Fall protection (Steel erection)
1926.800 Underground construction
1926.951 Tools and protective equipment (Power transmission and distribution
1926.955 Overhead lines
1926.1101 Asbestos
1926.1126 Chromium (VI)
1926.1127 Cadmium

13 NCAC 07F .0202General Safety and Health

Provisions
13 NCAC 07F .0204Personal Protective and Life
Saving Equipment
13 NCAC 07F .0206Power Transmission and
Distribution

13 NCAC 07F .0604(d)Hazard Identification and

Assessment
13 NCAC 07F .0605Fall Protection
13 NCAC 07F .0605(i)(2)(B) and (C)Emergency and
Rescue Procedures

23

OSH Publications
We provide a variety of OSH publications. These include general industry and construction regulations, industry guides that cover different OSH topics, quick cards, fact sheets and brochures that
cover a wide variety of serious safety and health workplace hazards. Workplace labor law posters are
available free of charge. To obtain publications, call toll free at 1-800-NC-LABOR (1-800-625-2267)
or direct at 919-807-2875. You may view the list of publications and also download many of them at
www.nclabor.com/pubs.htm.

Occupational Safety and Health (OSH)

Sources of Information
You may call 1-800-NC-LABOR (1-800-625-2267) to reach any division of the N.C. Department of Labor; or visit the
NCDOL home page on the World Wide Web: http://www.nclabor.com.
Occupational Safety and Health Division
Mailing Address:
Physical Location:
1101 Mail Service Center
111 Hillsborough St.
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
(Old Revenue Building, 3rd Floor)
Local Telephone: 919-807-2900
Fax: 919-807-2856
For information concerning education, training, interpretations of occupational safety and health standards, and
OSH recognition programs contact:
Education, Training and Technical Assistance Bureau
Mailing Address:
Physical Location:
1101 Mail Service Center
111 Hillsborough St.
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
(Old Revenue Building, 4th Floor)
Telephone: 919-807-2875
Fax: 919-807-2876
For information concerning occupational safety and health consultative services contact:
Consultative Services Bureau
Mailing Address:
Physical Location:
1101 Mail Service Center
111 Hillsborough St.
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
(Old Revenue Building, 3rd Floor)
Telephone: 919-807-2899
Fax: 919-807-2902
For information concerning migrant housing inspections and other related activities contact:
Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau
Mailing Address:
Physical Location:
1101 Mail Service Center
111 Hillsborough St.
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
(Old Revenue Building, 2nd Floor)
Telephone: 919-807-2923
Fax: 919-807-2924
For information concerning occupational safety and health compliance contact:
Safety and Health Compliance District Offices
Raleigh District Office (3801 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607)
Telephone: 919-779-8570
Fax: 919-420-7966
Asheville District Office (204 Charlotte Highway, Suite B, Asheville, NC 28803-8681)
Telephone: 828-299-8232
Fax: 828-299-8266
Charlotte District Office (901 Blairhill Road, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28217-1578)
Telephone: 704-665-4341
Fax: 704-665-4342
Winston-Salem District Office (4964 University Parkway, Suite 202, Winston-Salem, NC 27106-2800)
Telephone: 336-776-4420
Fax: 336-767-3989
Wilmington District Office (1200 N. 23rd St., Suite 205, Wilmington, NC 28405-1824)
Telephone: 910-251-2678
Fax: 910-251-2654
***To make an OSH Complaint, OSH Complaint Desk: 919-807-2796***
For statistical information concerning program activities contact:
Planning, Statistics and Information Management Bureau
Mailing Address:
Physical Location:
1101 Mail Service Center
111 Hillsborough St.
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
(Old Revenue Building, 2nd Floor)
Telephone: 919-807-2950
Fax: 919-807-2951
For information about books, periodicals, vertical files, videos, films, audio/slide sets and computer databases contact:
N.C. Department of Labor Library
Mailing Address:
Physical Location:
1101 Mail Service Center
111 Hillsborough St.
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
(Old Revenue Building, 5th Floor)
Telephone: 919-807-2850
Fax: 919-807-2849
N.C. Department of Labor (Other than OSH)
1101 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
Telephone: 919-733-7166
Fax: 919-733-6197