Powder handling can release fine particulate from PM10 down to PM1, including sensitising flour dust and respirable crystalline silica. Under COSHH, PPE is the last line of defence after engineering controls. The goal is simple: make PPE easy to choose, wear, and maintain so exposure stays low and work continues efficiently.

Start with the task and the hazard

Map where dust is created and disturbed: bag opening, tipping, transfers, clean-down. Use a quick risk profile for each step: dust type, duration, proximity to source, and whether capture controls are present. If available, use a particulate monitor to spot peaks and confirm when RPE is needed.

Select the right RPE for the job

Match protection to task duration and physical load. For short, intermittent tasks where controls are effective, tight-fitting RPE may suffice if face-fit tested and well maintained. For longer shifts, heat stress, or workers with facial hair, consider Air-fed masks to reduce breathing resistance and improve wear time. Always brief operators on cartridge/filter change rules and maintain a simple colour or date system for replacements.

Fit, training, and comfort

• Face-fit test tight-fitting RPE for each wearer and mask type; repeat after significant facial changes.
• Adopt a stubble policy and provide shaving kits or alternative RPE where needed.
• Train on donning, seal checks, safe removal, and storage. A two-minute toolbox talk before dusty tasks prevents most errors.
• Provide sizes, spare liners, and nose-bridge options to improve comfort and compliance.

Hand protection that actually works

Choose gloves for the specific powder hazard and task: chemical compatibility where relevant, abrasion resistance for handling sacks, and cuff length that prevents ingress when arms are raised. Keep a simple sizing chart at issue points and set a clear replacement trigger (tears, loss of grip, visible contamination). Provide hand-wash stations and skin-care to reduce dermatitis risk.

Care, change-out, and hygiene

• Set filter change intervals by hours of use or breathing resistance; never wait for visible dust.
• Clean RPE and store in sealed containers; avoid leaving masks on dashboards or dusty benches.
• For powered units, charge batteries on a rotation and label by team or shift.
• Dispose of used filters and contaminated PPE in sealed bags; avoid shaking out or compressed air.

Integrate PPE with controls

PPE should sit alongside capture-at-source and airborne control. Pair RPE and gloves with local exhaust ventilation, enclosed transfers, and air cleaning. Where airborne particulate persists, an air scrubber such as MAXVAC Dustblockers can reduce background dust to support the PPE programme. Schedule dusty tasks when fewer people are nearby, and use buddy checks to spot poor seals or damaged kit before work starts.

Practical takeaways

• Define dusty steps, then pick RPE and gloves by task duration and hazard.
• Face-fit test tight-fitting RPE; use alternatives for facial hair or heat stress.
• Set simple filter and glove change rules that supervisors can verify at a glance.
• Train briefly but often; include seal checks and safe doffing.
• Store clean, dry, and protected; label batteries and filters.
• Back PPE with effective dust capture and verified airflow under load.

Supportive PPE programmes are built on clarity and consistency. Keep choices simple, maintain the kit, and integrate with robust dust control so operators can work safely and confidently.