What PPE is needed for dog grooming?

PPE is defined in the PPER 1992 as all equipment to include dog grooming clothing which is intended to be worn by a person at work and which protects the person against a risk to that person's health or safety. Personal protective equipment (PPE) protects the user against health or safety risks at work. It includes controlling hazards and injuries to- the lungs- head and legs- the eyes- the skin- the body. PPE should be part of your health and safety controls everyday. Firstly, it starts with protective clothing. Practicality over fashion should always be at the forefront when choosing workwear. Types of Proper Dog Grooming PPE include protection for Eyes, Skin, Ears, Hands and Arms, Feet and Legs, and Lungs. Eyes Hazards include Hair, dead skin, nail cuttings, shampoo splash. Skin Hazards include Hair, bites and scratches. Ears Hazards include Noise, a combination of sound level and duration of exposure to dryers, blasters and clippers. Lungs Hazards include Absorbing hair dust and vapours. Ensure Proper Fit: Ill-fitting PPE can be ineffective, make sure your goggles, mask, and gloves fit snugly but comfortably to provide optimal protection. Keep Your PPE Clean: Regularly clean and maintain your PPE to ensure it remains effective.

Gloves are an essential piece of PPE in any grooming salon. They protect groomers' hands from cuts, scratches, and exposure to chemicals present in shampoos and grooming products. Additionally, gloves help prevent the transmission of infectious diseases between animals and humans. Opt for durable, latex-free gloves that offer both protection and dexterity, allowing groomers to perform their tasks efficiently without compromising safety. Goggles or Face Shield: Grooming procedures such as bathing, trimming, and nail clipping can sometimes lead to splashes or flying debris. To safeguard groomers' eyes and face from potential hazards, it's crucial to provide them with either goggles or a face shield. Aprons or Smocks: An apron or smock serves as a protective barrier for groomers' clothing, shielding them from water, hair, and grooming chemicals. Masks are essential not only for mitigating the risk of COVID-19 transmission but also for reducing exposure to allergens, dander, and airborne particles that may cause respiratory discomfort or allergic reactions. Ear Protection: Excessive noise from grooming equipment such as dryers and clippers can pose a risk of hearing damage to both groomers and dogs. To safeguard against noise-induced hearing loss, consider providing ear protection such as earplugs or earmuffs for your staff. By equipping your salon with essential PPE such as gloves, goggles, aprons, masks, and ear protection, you not only reduce the risk of injuries and exposure to harmful substances but also foster a culture of safety and professionalism among your staff.

Gloves for Animal Bite Protection Gloves are used to protect personnel from injury to their hands when working with animals. For more information about the level of PPE required based on the level of risk for each animal, go to the Animal Handler PPE chart. Dogs Muzzles The following PPE is used to protect personnel from injury to their eyes, face, head, feet, and hands when working with animals. Eye protection Clean after each use. Disposable gowns Coveralls Shoe covers Head covers Face masks Dispose of these items prior to exiting the room.

PPE requirements for dog grooming All of the following should be used in dog grooming salons, and changed between each appointment with each dog: Respiratory protective equipment At the moment we’ve all got more face coverings than we know what to do with, but they are a must for dog grooming in any circumstances. Because certain products used in dog grooming can be harmful to humans when inhaled through the mouth and nose, having a face mask on provides essential protection. This can be a surgical or disposable one, and it’s important to make sure it’s properly in place. Eye protection Dog shampoos, flea and tick treatments can be highly irritating to human eyes. Dog groomers should always wear a pair of protective glasses to make sure any particles don’t reach the eyes. In the current circumstances it’s also advisable to wear a visor in order to protect other people within the salon and reduce the risk of Covid-19 being transmitted if anybody is carrying it. Skin protection To protect your skin against any chemicals used in dog grooming, you should always use surgical gloves when handling dogs in the salon. Covering your skin also helps to protect from any bites and scratches, so full-length sleeves and trousers and fully covered shoes are also important. Making sure that gloves and other disposable equipment is switched between treatments will minimise the risk of harm and of Covid-19 transmission. Ensure the right PPE is worn at all times in the salon, and not just during treatments

Thick disposable gloves, a range of certified face masks, aprons, and hand sanitiser are essential for every type of business, including dog grooming. We stock a range of disposable products to suit the salon, spa, dog grooming, colleges and other businesses. These include: Thick disposable gloves, A range of certified face masks, Aprons, Hand sanitiser, Protective screens. Waterproof reusable and washable aprons and gowns, for those looking for a better look which is better for the environment.